Highlighting Sterling’s Tenure: An Interview with Jane Robinson

Meet Jane Robinson, Sterling Engineering’s Divisional Recruiting Manager for the Automation division, who began her journey with us as a Recruiter back in 1985. Over the past 38 years, Jane has been at the heart of our growth and evolution, navigating changes from technological advancements to economic challenges like the 2008 recession. In this candid interview, she shares insights from her extensive career, reflects on the unchanging core values of Sterling, and discusses her role in mentoring the next generation of talent. Join us as Jane gives us a personal look at her long-standing commitment and dynamic career at Sterling Engineering.

Introduction and Background

Can you tell us your name and current role at Sterling?

• Jane Robinson, Divisional Recruiting Manager for the Automation division

What year did you start working at Sterling, and what was your initial position?

• September 1985, Recruiter

Career Journey

Can you walk me through the different roles you have held over the past 38 years?

• I started as a Recruiter and worked full-time until I had my first baby in 1988.  For the next 6 -10 years, I did recruiting on a part-time basis, working the night shift from 5-9:30P.  I started back full-time in 2006, working a hybrid schedule; I worked many nights and weekends.  My husband was a huge supporter, and I wouldn’t have been able to make it work without him.

What were some of the most significant milestones or achievements in your career at Sterling?

• Going into recruiting management has been the most significant milestone in my career.

Company Evolution

How has Sterling evolved since you first started?

• When I started, we had only 1 recruiter. We quickly grew that recruiting team to 4 within 6 months. Over the years, Sterling has increased significantly in size. We have over 30 recruiters now, which is amazing. It still has that family feel, which is nice.

What are some of the most significant changes you have observed in the company's culture, operations, and strategic direction?

• We’ve changed databases at least 4 or 5 times and really buttoned down our processes.

Technological Changes

How has technology impacted your work and the operations at Sterling over the years?

• We used to work off a “green bar” printer and we used to individually “code” each candidate based on their skills set. The process was much more manual. Everything is so much more automated now than it used to be.

Challenges and Overcoming Them

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during your tenure at Sterling?

• The recession in 2008 was probably the most difficult time that I’ve seen at Sterling.  It was hard but we dug our heels in and got through it.

Company Culture and Values

How would you describe Sterling's company culture when you first joined compared to now?

• Believe it or not, I don’t think Sterling’s culture has changed. Even though Sterling has grown over the years, management has an open-door policy and family atmosphere. Everyone is very approachable.

What core values have remained consistent throughout your time here?

• Respect for clients and employees has always been Sterling's core value, and it still holds true today.

Mentorship and Growth

Have you had mentors who influenced your career at Sterling? How did they impact you?

• Over the years, I’ve had many great mentors and managers. I would have to say our President, Rama Kavaliauskas, has been my biggest mentor. We’ve worked closely over the years and she has always been very supportive in everything I’ve done.

Have you had the opportunity to mentor others? What advice do you typically give to new employees?

• I have had the opportunity to mentor others. I am very old school in my work ethic. Work hard, and good things will happen. You will have good days and bad days, but just keep giving 100%, and it will all work out.

Personal Reflections

What has kept you motivated and committed to Sterling for 38 years?

• It is very telling when you wake up every day and want to go to work. In the staffing industry, every day is unique and different, and that keeps the job exciting.

Can you share a memorable story or experience from your time at Sterling that stands out to you?

• There have been so many memories over the years, from celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, Sterling incentive trips, weddings, babies, and funerals. Sterling is a very caring company that always recognizes hard work and accomplishments. I feel very blessed to have worked here for 38 years.

Future Outlook

What are your thoughts on the future direction of Sterling?

• Sterling has a great executive leadership team, and they are committed to continuing Sterling as one of the top engineering staffing companies in the Chicagoland area.

Closing Thoughts 

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience at Sterling?

• I’ve basically grown up at Sterling.  It is very unique that this is my first and only “professional” job.  I’ve always been treated well and enjoyed my work so I never felt the need to change jobs.

How do you plan to continue contributing to Sterling in the coming years?

• I hope to continue to mentor and lead recruiters and help them to get to the next step in their career.