Her Story
About Kellen
Kellen Welton serves as HR Director for a plumbing and heating company encompassing 22 brands and 1,500 employees. With over 20 years in the field, she began her HR career during college when a friend's father offered an HR admin role at a call center, quickly developing a passion for recruiting and developing managers and employees. She earned a bachelor's degree in economics followed by a master's in people management, and she continues her professional development through SHRM conferences and certifications such as difficult conversations. As an immigrant from Brazil, Kellen overcame language barriers and adapted to U.S. laws across 50 states to build her career from HR generalist to her current leadership position. She is passionate about building relationships that help employees reach their next level and finds recruiting unicorns who align with company culture especially rewarding. Kellen attributes her success to strong family support and her own drive to set goals and pursue continuous growth rather than remaining stagnant.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kellen
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the family support I have, even from my own family back in Brazil, and the opportunity for growth. I push myself because I don't want to be stuck; I want to keep growing and set goals for myself. That keeps giving me the energy to do what I do, and I really like the job I have today.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't give up. Sometimes you think you want to do something, try it, and if you don't like it, try something else. Be passionate about what you're doing, whether working with people, numbers, or science. Take time for yourself, like a 5-minute break, a walk, or something that makes you happy, because your well-being matters.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is being recognized as a woman, especially from a different ethnicity and country. Immigrants have to start over, learn laws across 50 states, adapt to language and environment. People sometimes treat you differently or doubt your language skills, but we need to be given opportunities to show what we can do.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and trust are most important, both at work and personally. Being ethical in dealings, listening to understand what's going on first, communication, and support. These build strong relationships with managers, family, and others.
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