Darcey Raterink’s Leadership Journey

Darcey Raterink saw an ad in a newspaper promoting a job fair at Gentex in 2002. She attended the fair, talked to a recruiter, and accepted her first role as a production team member. Now, 20 years later, she is a manager in the company’s Legal department. 

“I did not start at Gentex expecting to be here 20 years and beyond,” she explained. “I was on a 5-year plan and anticipated moving on after college. But so many things seemed to fall into place during my career here.”  

While working in production, Darcey utilized Gentex’s Tuition Reimbursement program to earn a degree at Cornerstone University. Ready to explore other opportunities at Gentex, she accepted a coordinator role in the Human Resources Department helping the recruiting team. A few years later, she moved within the department to serve as an Employee Relations Representative. 

“In recruiting, you’re meeting new people daily and interacting with them at the start of their employment with the Company. In an employee relations role, your focus is more on building working relationships with people once they are in the workplace. You’re walking alongside team members and managers and helping to problem solve situations or provide insight on resources.” 

During her time in Human Resources, she took advantage of many of the leadership classes available such as Leadership Liftoff and Speed of Trust, as well as mentorship opportunities.  

“Attending these trainings allowed me to take in constructive criticisms, create better self-awareness and ultimately work to build upon my leadership skills and career plan. I love that Gentex provides these opportunities for talent development,” she said. 

Darcey was ready for a change in her career and accepted a role in the Legal Department as a compliance specialist. Her daily routine changed dramatically. Instead of a lot of face-to-face interactions with employees and managers every day, she was in a desk environment building detailed compliance processes—and she loved it! In 2021, she was promoted to manager and leads the Occupational Health and Leave of Absence teams.  

“Taking on a leadership role has really been a great opportunity. I am learning so much from my teams. They are a great group of people. I really enjoy the teamwork aspect of leading; being in a position where I can help support team members as they grow in their careers is an added bonus.”  

When asked why she has stayed 15 years longer than the original plan, Darcey reflects on what makes Gentex so special to her. 

“I’ve always had great support systems within Gentex. Outside of enjoying the work I do, I’ve absolutely loved the people I’ve worked with. It’s the employees who make Gentex a step above the rest.”  

Taking on a leadership role has really been a great opportunity. I am learning so much from my teams. They are a great group of people. I really enjoy the teamwork aspect of leading; being in a position where I can help support team members as they grow in their careers is an added bonus.

If you or someone you know is interested in starting a career at Gentex, we encourage you to explore our open positions on our job portal.  Click below to get started!

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