October’s Employees of the Month at Strategic

Every month, the employees at Strategic Communications are given the opportunity to acknowledge exemplary colleagues within or outside their department. Three individuals were chosen by their coworkers for their commitment to customer service, perseverance in the face of challenges, and can-do attitudes!

Allison Clink | Purchasing Specialist

What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on at Strategic?

I enjoyed collaborating with others on the accounting team to put together the Accounting Slideshow presentation. It not only taught me what others on my own team do daily but work with everyone in a different way than I usually do.

What does your dream vacation look like?

I would love to do a European trip one day and see all the touristy spots: London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Glasgow. Especially Scotland where my mother was born.

Who is your favorite musical artist, and what was the first concert you attended?

Technically my first concert was Metallica at Candlestick Park when I was 14 and I was able to sneak in. But my favorite artist is Dave Matthews Band – seen them 9 times so far, including this past year. My goal is to see them play the Gorge over a 3 day weekend.

How would your family, friends, or coworkers describe you in three words?

Goofy, Fun, & Understanding (I hope)

What is your current favorite TV Show, Podcast, or Book that you’d like to share with the world?

I’m still pretty hooked on My Favorite Murder podcast. And as always, Bobs Burgers.

What is something that people may not know about you?

My great or great-great uncle on my dad’s side was shot by John Dillinger. He lived – since he was only shot in the.. can I say bottom?


Collin Palmer | Application Support Analyst

• How long have you worked for Strategic Communications?

Almost 5 years

What was your background prior to working for Strategic Communications?

Before Strategic, I was a student at Eastern High School. I received 3 years of Programming experience in Java, JavaScript, and C#, as well as Computer Repair, Security, and Networking fundamentals.

What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding or fulfilling?

In my opinion, the most satisfying part of my job is when you’ve been wracking your brain for hours, trying to meet a goal, and that second that you make a breakthrough, everything starts to fall into place.

What is the best career lesson you’ve learned so far?

The best career lesson that I’ve taken to heart so far is: Never give up. Things may seem difficult now but stick with it. See it through, and everything will feel so much more rewarding when the dust clears.

Outside of work, what are you passionate about/enjoy doing?

After work, I enjoy watching Netflix, playing Video Games, Photography, listening to music, and learning new things.

What is your current favorite TV Show, Podcast, or Book that you’d like to share with the world?

My favorite show currently is “The Last Kingdom”. I’ve also been trying to catch up on “Critical Role”. Really anything with a compelling story has a good chance to catch my attention though!

What is something that people may not know about you?

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved animals, and have had a lot of unique encounters with them, including a young serval, a white Bengal tiger cub, a wild hummingbird (long story), and even a wild Red Fox.


Terry Hoekstra | Federal Account Manager – Southeast US and EUR Regions

• How long have you worked for Strategic Communications?

Around 3 and a half years

What was your background prior to working for Strategic Communications?

Prior to Strategic late 90’s I was a Dell/Gateway phone support then worked at Godaddy learning basic coding for websites and domain management and then figured out I was better at sales which I have done ever since.

What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding or fulfilling?

(Fun Answer) Winning a multimillion-dollar deal and figuring out I didn’t screw the quote up to win Whew!!!

(Serious Answer) Working and being a part of a team that gets it.

What is the best career lesson you’ve learned so far?

Do the research and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Outside of work, what are you passionate about/enjoy doing?

The wife and I like randomly picking out an anonymous diner and paying for their meal. This keeps us humble and puts a smile on someone’s face even if it’s for a short moment in time.

What is your current favorite TV Show, Podcast, or Book that you’d like to share with the world?

I Don’t watch any TV but follow a YouTube channel MrBallen, hosted by an Ex-Navy Seal with dark and mysterious stories.

What is something that people may not know about you?

I was adopted at 9 after my brothers and I were separated in State care for 2 years, my real last name is Douglas.

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