10 Questions for Latrice Wesley

Happy Black History Month! To celebrate, we’re highlighting the important contributions of Black and African American team members at Northwest Pipe with interviews sharing their career journeys, inspirations, and what Black History Month means to them.

10 Questions for Latrice Wesley

As Human Resources Assistant at our Permalok manufacturing facility in St. Louis, Missouri, Latrice Wesley is a welcoming and knowledgeable resource for the Permalok team. She brings her passion for helping others into her daily duties, including interviewing job applicants, entering hours for payroll, communicating effectively with team members and management, and enforcing policies and guidelines to ensure a safe and compliant workplace for all.

—

1. What is your job title and how long have you been with Northwest Pipe Company?

Human Resources Assistant and I have been with the Company for two years.

2. Describe the journey leading to your current position?

I started out in the medical field and wanted to cross over into Human Resources. I felt, if I can play a small part in helping someone find a workplace that they can thrive in, I have added something to this world that we live in. I applied to work for this Company after reading the job description. I believed that I could add value to this Company.

3. What’s the most exciting thing about your job?

Helping others and the task of never knowing what type of fires you have to put out for the day.

4. Name two things that always brighten your day— one at work and one outside of work?

At Work: The wonderful Employees.
Outside of Work: My kids Makayla & Elijah.

5. Which of the Northwest Pipe ACT Values (Accountability, Commitment, and Teamwork) resonates most for you in your role and why?

Accountability, because at all levels of this organization I am able to hold anyone accountable for their actions, including my own.

6. Which current or historical Black figure do you admire most for their values, leadership, or contributions and why?

I have two: Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman. They were both strong Black women that valued family and believed in freedom. They both believed that everyone should be treated equally. They both were brave, caring, and determined to make a difference someway and somehow. These two Black figures I connect with the most – I value family, I believe that everyone should be treated equally, and I always want to make difference in anything that I come in contact with.

7. Name someone in your life who inspires you and why?

My mom. While growing up, my mom kept a smile on her face no matter how hard things were. She told me to never give up on my dreams and to always finish things that I start.  She is well respected and always gave more than she received.

8. What advice do you have for individuals entering your profession?

Always remember to be a part of the solution and that communication is the key to success.

9. Are there any family traditions significant to you from growing up that you continue to celebrate with your family or friends?

Sunday dinners are a tradition that my family continues.

10. What does Black History Month mean to you?

The appreciation and acknowledgment of Black men and women with the opportunity to understand Black history.