WOMEN TO WATCH

Katrinka Shields

Vice President of HR & Recruiting
Apptegy

Apptegy is an education technology startup based in Little Rock that supports the communication and branding efforts of school districts all throughout the United States. As one of the fastest-growing companies in the education market, our team has grown to over 300 employees (and counting), and my role has allowed me to play a small part in this rapid growth.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

Biggest challenges in my career

Navigating through all the unknowns and ever-changing guidelines during a pandemic. This was something no one could prepare for or have guidance from past experiences.

My first job and what it taught me

I was a lifeguard in high school and college. This really taught me the importance of teamwork and that who you're surrounded by can make all the difference.

Best career moment so far

This is a tough one, but the ones that come to mind are definitely when I've accomplished what seemed impossible only with the help of amazing teammates.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Easterseals Arkansas. It's amazing what they're doing for children and adults with disabilities, as well as their families. The ART program especially has a special place in my heart.

Best advice I ever received

Sometimes the best decision isn't always the easiest decision.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

As cliche as it sounds, the people. I've never been surrounded by such a talented group of people who really are all focused on the same goal.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

Sales skills. I fell into HR after not wanting a sales job, but so much of recruiting can compare to sales and mastering the art of persuasion.

How I knew this was my passion

Getting to work with people from all types of backgrounds and possibly having a positive impact on them made me realize this is what I was meant to do.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Vilonia

I can't start my day until

I brush my teeth

Hobbies

Traveling, spending time with my niece and nephew and trying every new restaurant

Binge watch

"Euphoria" or "Love is Blind"

Last good read

"The Almanack of Naval Ravikant"

Favorite meal in town

It really depends on what I want that day, but it should always end with cheesecake from The Pantry.

Best recent local discovery

Harlow and Poppy in Conway

Latest splurge

Razorback tickets

Most-used app

Gmail or slack

Dream vacation

Italy, spending time on the coast and wine country

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