Articles

Member Spotlight on Erika Nilles-Plumlee, SHRM-CP

Q: Were you born and raised in the St. Louis area – or elsewhere?
A: I was born outside of Chicago then lived in Peoria, Illinois until moving to Manhattan, Kansas when I was a junior in high school. I lived in Kansas City and Lawrence, Kansas, for several years before relocating to St. Louis in 2015. 

Q: What is your history with SHRM St. Louis?
A: I joined SHRM St. Louis after entering the HR profession in 2016. Because I was new to the profession and to St. Louis, I was looking for both training and networking opportunities. Shortly after joining, I became active with the membership committee and now serve on the Board as the VP of Membership.

Q: Why did you decide to focus on employment/human resources?
A: My educational background and experience prior to moving to St. Louis was in social work and criminal justice administration. I wanted to transition into business and human resources was a natural fit. I think employees are at the center of any company, and it’s vital to create environments where they want to come to work every day and thrive. When employees are at their best, businesses are also at their best, and I want to be a part of making that happen.

Q: Please describe your job.
A: I am responsible for the strategic direction and oversight of human resources for StoneBridge Senior Living. We currently have 22 locations in 3 states with approximately 1,500 employees.

Q: What is your favorite part of the job?
A: Creating an environment where employees can become the best version of themselves and helping this funnel down through the organization.

Q: What is one example of a positive experience that you’ve had in this field?
A: I have had so many positive experiences in this field but a couple that stand out are creating and facilitating an employee engagement committee and conducting small group leadership development sessions while working in a manufacturing environment. At my current place of employment, walking into facilities and seeing our amazingly dedicated and talented employees caring for our residents is quite rewarding as well. 

Q: Who introduced you to SHRM? How did you initially become involved?
A: I found SHRM through a google search. I knew as soon as I switched careers that the technical learning curve would be very steep, and I needed every training resource I could find.

Q: What have you gained thus far through your SHRM membership?
A: I initially gained a ton of knowledge and information by attending trainings and seminars. However, equally important, I also gained a community of HR professionals who are always there for ideas and support.

Q: What are your hopes for SHRM St. Louis for 2023?
A: As the Membership Chair, I hope that others consider joining or re-joining the chapter. During Covid, we transitioned into the virtual world, but are now back in person and more excited than ever to welcome new members.

Q: What non-professional activities do you enjoy in your spare time?
A: Basically, anything outside. I love being active, as well as exploring the restaurant and coffee scene in STL and finally traveling again!

Q: What is a favorite quote of yours and why?
A: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” I like this quote because the only person you can really change is yourself. Rather than dwelling on why things cannot happen or change, I prefer to act and be part of the solution. 

Q: Who would you consider to be your mentor and why?
A: There is not just one person who I would consider my mentor. I have been fortunate enough to have several people throughout my career who have assisted with my growth and development. I am grateful for these relationships and value them immensely.