Kimberly White - Career & Networking Center

Kimberly White is the Executive Director of the Career & Networking Center (CNC), a company that provides diverse resources to empower individuals to achieve fulfilling employment. She is a visionary leader who champions career transformation and community service. Having begun her journey assisting military personnel in career transitions, Kimberly brought her expertise to CNC in 2005. Her leadership skills flourished as she expanded CNC’s services and community outreach, leading the organization to new heights. An influential leader dedicated to advancing equity, Kimberly serves as director on boards of the Naperville Neighbors United, Turning Pointe Autism Foundation, and the Indian Prairie Educational Foundation. In 2020, she was nominated as Chairperson of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee for the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce in 2020.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

[3:01] Kimberly White shares her nearly two-decade journey with the Career & Networking Center
[7:06] Kimberly’s creative approach to helping soldiers articulate their skills on resumes during challenging transitions
[8:35] How the 2007 economic downturn expanded CNC’s networking groups to support the community
[13:55] The additional services CNC provides for employers and nonprofit partnerships
[17:40] The personal fulfillment Kimberly finds in impacting others’ lives positively through her work
[23:05] Kimberly’s journey as the first black president of Naperville’s Rotary Club and her focus on DEI
[26:33] The importance of kindness, support, and a nonjudgmental community in life’s struggles and transitions

In this episode…

What does it take to make a difference in someone’s life, especially when facing professional uncertainty? Genuine support and mentorship can help others create a sense of purpose, fostering a resilient and inclusive community. How do life experiences shape our ability to serve others in meaningful ways?

Career expert Kimberly White delves into her commitment to fostering positive changes and empowering individuals throughout their career journeys. She shares how her decision to support transitioning military personnel sparked a profound realization about an individual’s impact on a community. She discusses the satisfaction of helping job seekers secure employment, which is more than just an occupation for many — it’s an identity. Kimberly also describes how the Career & Networking Center supports individuals holistically through their career transitions, touching on her historic role as the first black president of her local Rotary Club and reinforcing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in leadership.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kimberly White, Executive Director of the Career & Networking Center (CNC), about transforming lives through community engagement and career empowerment. Kimberly shares her journey with CNC, her creative approach to helping soldiers with their career transitions, how the 2007 economic downturn expanded CNC’s networking groups to support the community, and her journey as the first black president of the Rotary Club focusing on DEI.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:

“It’s just important to leave all that horrible rhetoric behind and just be kind and nice and do what you can to help others because you never know what people are going through.”
“I always thought I’d be in corporate America, but I realized helping others follow their passion was where I found my own.”
“There is no judgment anywhere in these organizations. Walk in and get what you need.”
“Nothing makes me happier than to know that a client has landed their job.”
“I started volunteering and helping people with their career journey; it was a natural transition to move into this role.”

Action Steps:

Get involved in volunteering: Volunteering in your community increases empathy, enhances personal growth, and provides a platform to support those in need.
Create holistic support systems: Offer comprehensive services that address professional and personal challenges for those seeking help.
Build partnerships with local organizations: In your endeavors, partner with local nonprofits and businesses to create a support network.
Lead with inclusivity: Take on leadership roles focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure all voices are heard and respected, fostering innovation and mutual respect within organizations.
Offer encouragement without judgment: Nonjudgmental support is crucial for individuals in vulnerable situations, helping to restore confidence and motivation.

Sponsor for this episode…

Today’s episode is sponsored by Paul Gregory Media, an 18-year-old digital marketing agency in downtown Naperville, Illinois.

They are one of the few thousand Certified B Corporations worldwide, demonstrating PGM as a leader of a global movement to use business as a force for good, meeting high standards of accountability, transparency, and community involvement. They have been trusted by hundreds of organizations since 2006.

PGM is recognized as one of the top marketing agencies in the region, earning more awards than many of its competitors combined. They have the passion, commitment, and expertise to get it done.

To learn more about the services PGM offers or how they can support you with your marketing needs, visit www.paulgregorymedia.com or email them at [email protected].

Kimberly White – Career & Networking Center