The Second Generation of IST
Hanging With Hal
The Second Generation of IST
It is incredible how many multi-generational IST family employees work for us. Are there potential careers for the children of our employees at IST? Absolutely! The second generation of IST is already going full steam ahead. One example is Lori Mitchum and her daughter Katie Mitchum. Lori started with us over twenty-five years ago as a Desktop Publisher, and today she is Vice-President of Administration. Katie started with us nearly two years ago as a Digital Marketing Communications Specialist. I thought it would be fun and informative to ask Lori and Katie a few questions concerning their careers with IST.
Questions for Lori –
How did you first learn about IST?
In September 1997, I was scouring the Atlanta Daily Journal newspaper for any job that would pay me at least $1 an hour more than I was currently making. That's where I saw the ad for a Desktop Publisher at IST. After my phone interview with Joe Carroll, I had to call him back and ask him to explain what Facilities Management meant for a second time because I had never heard of it.
What made you decide to accept a position here?
They offered me $2 an hour more than I was making at my current job! I was also excited to be able to work in a corporate office environment. It seemed like a big step up from my current job, and I hoped it was a company I could stay with and grow my career.
What’s it like working for IST?
It's never a dull moment here, and I'm pretty sure I've never had the same day twice. After 25 years, I've never had a year where I didn't learn something big and completely new to me. I stay busy, my days fly by, and I can continually grow my skill sets. It can be stressful, especially in Human Resources, but I enjoy the people I work with and some of the friendships I have made over the years here.
What do you like best about your job?
Hands down, it's the people that I work with that I enjoy the most at IST.
Why did you think it would be a good opportunity for your daughter to work here?
IST is a great place to start a career! If you come in with a positive attitude, great customer service toward the clients and your fellow employees, and are eager to learn and work hard, the sky is the limit! Even if IST only ends up being the first step of someone's future career, it's a great introduction to the business world and can provide exposure to a lot of different experiences, skills, and people.
Questions for Katie –
What’s it like working for the same company as your mom?
It’s a unique experience for a first-time corporate job. My mom has always been extremely dedicated to her role at IST, often working late. She leaves the house before I wake up, and sometimes I don’t see her in the evening. It’s great to run by her office and see her during the day. My mom is a rockstar and a force at IST. It’s rewarding to hear how great she is and witness the impact her hard work has firsthand.
What do you currently do for IST, and what do you like best about your job?
I’m a part of the Digital Marketing Communications team. I work on Gives Back campaigns and schedule social media posts. I love my teammates and my team leader. They have taught me a great deal about Marketing, social media, design, and life. When I first started at IST, they were so helpful with my transition from being a student working at IST part-time to being a full-time employee.
What made you decide to accept a position here?
I was nervous about stepping out of my comfort zone and accepting a position in Marketing without in-field experience, but I knew the opportunity was big. I knew an environment where I could learn and absorb as much as possible was what I needed in my senior year of college. Additionally, I grew up around IST and knew how hard-working and family-based the culture was, which eased my anxieties.
The above insights by Lori and Katie clearly show what can happen when people pursue their careers. Lori and Katie are outstanding employees. All of our employees are amazing, and it is the main reason IST has enjoyed phenomenal success! It is all about people, processes, and service to our clients and employees. Let’s continue this ride together, for the best is yet to come! Thank you for all that you do.
Contact Info
IST Management Services, Inc.
1341 Moreland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316