Kerry Gifford, Senior Analyst in Mahomet, Illinois, embodies the spirit of hard work, continuous learning, and community service. From starting as a field service technician to earning his plumbing license and climbing the ranks to a leadership role, Kerry’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence and dedication. Beyond his professional achievements, Kerry’s community efforts, including a book drive that collected over 6,200 books for local hospitals, prisons, and rehabilitation centers, reflect his belief in education and mentorship as catalysts for change.
In this interview, Kerry shares insights into his career, challenges, and the advice he has for those looking to thrive in their industries.
What motivated you to join your company, and how did you choose your industry?
I joined my company because I admired how it focused on helping people through clean water solutions. What really stood out was its dedication to excellent customer service and making a difference in everyday lives. I didn’t plan on entering this industry at first, but once I started, I saw how much room there was to grow—both in my career and as a person. I’ve always loved solving problems and working with data, and being at Culligan let me bring those two passions together in a meaningful way.
What were the biggest challenges you faced in the early stages of your career, and how did you overcome them?
Moving from being a hands-on field technician to a more analytical role was tough. It wasn’t just about learning the technical side of things—it also meant figuring out how to explain data and decisions in a way that made sense to different teams. I’ll admit, it was a struggle at first. I was so used to the practical, day-to-day work that stepping into a role requiring a strategic mindset felt like a big leap.
What helped me through was a commitment to learning and growing. I went back to school, earning degrees in Business Administration and Computer Science. These gave me the tools I needed to dive into data and understand how it drives decisions. Along the way, I found mentors who were willing to share their insights and help me see the bigger picture. I also realized that communicating well was just as important as understanding the numbers, so I worked on that too—taking public speaking courses and practicing presentations until I felt confident in my ability to connect with others. Looking back, those steps made all the difference in helping me grow into my current role.
What was your approach to building a customer base when you first started?
When I first started working as a field service technician here in Mahomet, Illinois, my days were spent meeting people in their homes, fixing their water systems, and making sure everything ran smoothly. But for me, it wasn’t just about the repairs. It was about getting to know my neighbors, listening to their concerns, and helping them understand how to keep their systems running longer. I wanted them to feel confident about the work we did together.
Mahomet, with its quiet streets and close-knit community, taught me the importance of trust. Whether I was helping a family with hard water issues or explaining how to maintain a filtration system, it was clear that people appreciated someone who took the time to listen and explain. That mindset stuck with me as I transitioned into my current role as a senior analyst.
Now, instead of working in basements or kitchens, I’m behind a computer, diving into data. It might sound like a big leap, but the goal is still the same: understanding what people need and finding ways to help. By analyzing trends in customer service calls or sales data, I’ve been able to help our teams adjust their strategies to reach out to customers more effectively.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting out in your industry, what would it be?
Stay curious and open to learning. Growth happens when you embrace challenges, even the ones that feel uncomfortable or intimidating. This industry is full of chances to expand your skills—whether it’s mastering new technology, making sense of data, or connecting better with people. Every hurdle you face can teach you something valuable.
And don’t forget the power of mentorship. Find people you admire and soak in their wisdom. At the same time, share what you’ve learned with others. Helping someone else grow can be just as fulfilling as growing yourself. It’s a give-and-take that shapes you both personally and professionally.
A Commitment to Community
Kerry Gifford is deeply committed to making a difference in his community outside of work. As a member of SCORE Decatur, he mentors young entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. His passion for education is also evident in his support for underserved communities.
Kerry recently led a community-driven book drive, surpassing an ambitious goal of 5,000 books to collect over 6,200. These books were distributed to local hospitals, jails, prisons, and rehabilitation centers. Reflecting on the success of this initiative, Kerry says, “Books are more than just words on a page—they’re a way to inspire, educate, and provide comfort. Knowing that these books have reached people in need makes all the effort worthwhile.”
The Road Ahead
Kerry’s career in Mahomet, Il, is a testament to his dedication to hard work, continuous learning, and giving back. For him, success isn’t just about climbing the career ladder—it’s about staying true to his values and making a difference. Reflecting on the future, Kerry shares his belief in adaptability: “Technology and industries evolve so quickly, but integrity and service never go out of style. I want to keep growing—not just in my career, but as someone who contributes to my community.”
Kerry Gifford reminds us that real success comes from our impact on the people and places that shape our lives.