OCTOBER FEATURED FEW

Name: Sandra Borstad

Organization/Title: Talent Development Manager at Blattner Company 

Length of time as a FEW member: Two months. It has only been a short time, but I have already seen the value of the group, enjoyed a few meetings and am impressed by the incredible women in the group. 

Hometown: Avon, Minn.

Family: I have two teenage daughters, Haille (17) and Ella (14)

What do you actually do at work? I lead a team that includes instructional designers, training specialists, audio visual group and the Learning Management System administration. We create a variety of learning experiences for people located in the home office including orientation, onboarding, personal development, job specific and leadership training. We also support field training. We are currently working on launching a buddy program for new hires, creating training paths for each position and enhancing the onboarding experience.

What was your first job? My first job was being a waitress at Charlie’s Café in Freeport. It was a great learning experience. Yes, they really did have the best caramel rolls around and possibly still do! 

How do you help others succeed? The biggest thing I do is listen and ask questions. I believe everyone has what it takes to succeed inside of them. They might not always know it, so it helps to have someone believe in them and guide them. By listening I can tell where someone is at currently. Then, I can ask questions to help them see the way to move forward.

Biggest indulgence? This is going to sound silly, but my biggest indulgence is bracelets, specifically wrap bracelets. I love them, especially if they have inspirational words or meaning behind them. It started about five years ago when I was going through a very challenging time in my life, I stumbled across a woman who made beaded bracelets with charms that had words such as faith or believe. She referred to them as armor and encouraged people to fierce forward through challenging times. That is what sparked my love of bracelets, and it has grown from there.

What do you do for fun? I love road trips and being outside, finding new walking or hiking trails. I also really enjoy playing cards and board games. 

Who is your oldest friend and where did you meet them? I have two friends I have known since I was in kindergarten.

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person? I am both. Most people would say I am a people person. However, I always have three to-do lists going–one for projects around the house, one for things I need to get done daily at home and a work list.

If you opened a business, what type of business would it be? I am not sure exactly what this looks like, but I would help people tell their stories through connection, photography and writing.

What are three words that describe you? Kind, creative and resourceful