Andrea A., a senior at CRSM, is already making a meaningful impact in the workplace through innovation and initiative.
While working at Overture Promotions, Andrea noticed opportunities to improve safety and engagement within the warehouse. Instead of simply observing, she took action and developed a rewards-based program designed to encourage safe practices and recognize employees for doing the right thing.
Andrea’s concept focused on increasing awareness of warehouse safety while creating a positive system of accountability. Her program encourages employees to make safer choices by rewarding consistent, responsible behavior.
With support from leadership, including Christina, the company’s VP of HR, Andrea helped turn her idea into a structured initiative. Christina noted how quickly Andrea stood out. She was “super proud of her” and impressed by her ability to take ownership of a problem and follow through with a solution. She added that Andrea “knocked it out of the park” and consistently demonstrates a level of initiative that goes beyond expectations.
Since the rollout, the company has seen a reduction in incidents and stronger employee engagement. The approach has helped build a more positive environment where employees feel recognized for their efforts. Christina highlighted that Andrea’s work reflects “the level of work ethic, responsibility, and accountability” that companies value, adding that it is rare to see someone at her stage make such a meaningful contribution.
Through the process, Andrea has grown both personally and professionally. “Don’t be afraid to involve yourself. The only way to be involved in a workplace is to be yourself,” she shared. Once more reserved, she has gained confidence by presenting ideas, collaborating with leadership, and seeing her work come to life.
Christina also emphasized the broader impact of Andrea’s example, noting that when students are given opportunities to contribute, “they gain so much” and can truly shape the environments they are part of.
Andrea plans to continue refining the program and exploring new ways to improve workplace systems. Her work is a strong example of how students can bring fresh ideas into professional environments and make a lasting impact.