Her Story
About Chelsey
Chelsey Kamleiter is a dedicated human resources professional based in Rochester, Indiana. She entered the field approximately seven years ago after gaining initial experience in recruiting and onboarding in 2014. Most recently, Chelsey worked as a Human Resources Generalist at Orion Safety Products, where she was training to advance to the role of Director of Human Resources. She earned her bachelor's degree from Indiana Tech while balancing full-time work and family responsibilities, including the births of her children and a back surgery, without taking breaks from her studies. Chelsey also holds a Human Resource Management Certificate from Indiana Tech and is currently halfway through a master's program, with completion expected in 2027. She is actively seeking a new opportunity in human resources that will allow her to utilize her skills, experience, and education while continuing to grow as a professional. Chelsey advises those entering the field to ensure they have a genuine passion for human resources, as the role requires serving as an unlicensed therapist, juggling multiple responsibilities, and balancing organizational compliance with employee support.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Chelsey
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success in HR to genuinely caring about people while still understanding the needs of the business. I’ve learned that HR isn’t always about having the answer immediately. It is about listening, asking the right questions, staying consistent, and finding a solution that is fair to the employee while protecting the organization. I also take a lot of pride in continuing to learn and grow. Employment laws, compliance requirements, and workplace expectations are constantly changing, so I never want to become complacent. I think my ability to communicate with employees at every level, handle difficult situations professionally, and follow through on what I say I’m going to do has been a big part of my success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is, ‘Never stop learning, and never assume you know everything.’ That has really stuck with me throughout my HR career. HR is constantly evolving, whether it’s employment law, compliance, technology, or simply learning how to work with different people. I’ve learned to ask questions, listen to people who have more experience than I do, and be open to feedback. I think that mindset has helped me continue growing both professionally and personally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Make sure that this is the field for you and that you are in it for the right reasons. You have to be ready to be someone's unlicensed therapist at the drop of a hat, juggle multiple things, ride the HR tightrope of being for the organization while also earning employees' trust and supporting them. Human resources is a lot more than just discipline, timekeeping and payroll. You need real passion for this or you are doing the employees a disservice.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.