Charmaine Swingle, the absence management coordinator in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ's human resources office, says that two of her passions are HR and beagles -- and in the case of the latter, the more the better.
Why 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ?
I previously worked in the private sector and I always wanted to work for the university or for the state. When I saw this opportunity was available, and it was for a position that focused on one of my HR passions, I decided this was my chance for something different.
How did you choose your field?
I went to school for human resources management. I initially thought I wanted to be a technical writer and even got an associate's degree in scientific and technical writing, but while working on that degree I took a couple of HR classes and fell in love with it. When I went on to get my bachelor's degree at Baker College in Auburn Hills, Mich., I knew I wanted HR to be my focus.
I had a wonderful teacher who had spent years working in labor relations, negotiating contracts between companies and the UAW (United Auto Workers) union. She made it sound so exciting and interesting. It seemed like she never had a day that was the same. I like the idea of constantly being challenged and learning something new.
What does the absence management coordinator do?
I am the point of contact for the university's various leave programs, including annual, sick, administrative, military, catastrophic, extend salary sick, and the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). In addition, I have oversight of iLeave, the web-based leave-tracking software system.
One tip for success
Be willing to admit when you make a mistake and learn from it. Don't expect to know all the answers, but know where to find them.
Where did you grow up?
Detroit.
If I weren't able to work in my current field...
I would be a fashion buyer for a large department store.
What has been the proudest moment of your life?
I have two -- getting baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses and buying my first house with my husband.
Something people would be surprised to learn about you...
I have three dogs and, if I could, I would buy a ranch and fill it with tons of beagles.
Who is your hero and why?
My heroes are my parents. They made sure that my sisters and I had what we needed, encouraged/supported us in achieving our goals, and taught us what it means to have true strength of character and beliefs.
What are your hobbies?
I love reading historical fiction, especially multi-generation sagas, as well as watching reality competition shows like So You Think You Can Dance and Project Runway. My husband and I also love playing cards and games like Yahtzee.
