I had the pleasure of sitting down with Nancy O’Connor, who has been with Schupan for 10 years. She held many different roles, including TMR (HR) and Materials Trading. What she likes most about Schupan is the family dynamics, the birthday cards, the turkeys, and the fact that everyone knows your name.
Nancy is looking forward to retirement in April 2026. I am a bit disappointed that I didn’t meet Nancy years ago. She is smart, kind, has high values and morals, and is a lot of fun. Her love for Schupan runs deep. She wants people to believe in Schupan and wants everyone to know you can make a difference.
Schupan is taking material from landfills around the world and putting it back into the circular economy. Did you know we trade material in 28 different countries?
Also, her favorite moment is when Schupan supported the Flint water crisis. Thousands of plastic water bottles and milk jugs were used by the community. Schupan pulled together to help that community recycle the plastic used. Did you know those bottles actually were recycled to make coats for the homeless? We make a difference.
Nancy is also very passionate about customer service. She said, “Customer service extends to every aspect of this job. It’s external and internal. It can make or break your relationships and reputation. It’s not ‘someone else’s job’ to do it; it’s all of our jobs to do it. Take the few minutes to answer the question instead of passing the buck.” Great advice for everyone at Schupan, and it follows our values of Integrity, Empowerment, Sustainability, and Compassion.
There are two people who really influenced her successful career throughout the years. Dawn Polzen has always been there for Nancy. She trained Nancy and showed her how to do things differently; she always reminds her that everyone makes mistakes. She is a very honest person and a true friend. Devin Larmeu is another person who had a direct impact on the way she works. Devin has always been patient with Nancy and helped her grow in areas she never imagined she would. Devin showed her how to get specific with the contracts and how they work. She explained the details so Nancy could understand.
Nancy wants to be remembered at Schupan as a good listener who has made a difference. She learned this from her Grandma O’Connor. Nancy is one of 40 grandkids, and all of them said they were the favorite grandchild. Nancy’s Grandma made you feel like you were the most special person in the room. She gave everyone her full, undivided attention. So Nancy carried that on. When you’re in conversation, don’t look at your phone; give that person your undivided attention. The other things can wait.
After Nancy retires, she will read many good books by the fire with her cat, Millie, on her lap. She is going to spend a lot of time hanging out with family and friends, traveling with her husband, Steve, and going out on the lake in her wooden canoe. In the spring and summer, you can find her in the yard tending to her garden and playing with her dog Tito.
A few fun facts: Nancy is an open book, the youngest of 9. If she could have done anything, she would have learned American Sign Language. She did take two adult ed courses, but it was hard for her to learn it on her own. Nancy’s first job was at Mr. Pastry Bakery and Deli, where she made $3.50 an hour, and all 5 girls in her family worked there.
Thank you, Nancy, for participating in our fun interview. Good luck in retirement, and remember, you will always have friends here at Schupan.
