Her Story
About Gretchen
Gretchen Palmer serves as warehouse manager at Sun Plumbing in Melbourne, Florida, a role she began in August of last year after a friend connected her with the opportunity. She is currently completing her bachelor's degree in addiction and recovery psychology through online classes at Liberty University, with an expected graduation in the spring, and she plans to pursue a master's in trauma psychology followed by a doctorate in psychology. In addition to her work at the plumbing company, Gretchen interns as a certified care counselor at East Coast Believers Counseling Ministry in Oviedo, Florida, where she began in May, and she leads a faith-based addiction recovery class on Wednesday nights at Melbourne Church of Christ. Her professional aspirations include opening a privatized sober living facility in the Melbourne or Sebastian area and eventually establishing a domestic violence shelter serving both men and women. She attributes her drive to her two children and draws on personal values of respect, honesty, humility, and determination in both her work and personal life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Gretchen
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my kids. If I didn't have my kids I would have stayed in that situation and I would have stayed using. I want to make a better life for them. They deserve it.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My mom has told me multiple times, you just take one day at a time. And then, let go and let God. Also, don't sweat the small things. In the grand scheme of life, it's not that important.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be intimidated. They're just people. Handle it with grace. Everybody puts their pants on the same way.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In my work life, just general respect. In my personal life, I value honesty, humility, and determined.
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