When you talk to Kerry Gifford, his passion for hard work, personal growth, and community shines through. Raised in the close-knit town of Mahomet, Illinois, Kerry’s story is rooted in a love for his hometown and a relentless drive to make a difference. He believes in rolling up his sleeves and giving his all, whether on the golf course, in a business meeting, or when volunteering his time to mentor young entrepreneurs.
From his early days playing golf and cross-country at Mahomet-Seymour High School to his career evolution from banking to plumbing and analytics, Kerry’s journey has been ordinary. Yet through every twist and turn, one thing has remained constant: his commitment to learning and growing while lifting up those around him. Today, as an executive, he uses data to drive meaningful change, but it’s his dedication to community service and mentorship that truly sets him apart.
In this interview, Kerry shares the moments that defined his path, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and his hopes for inspiring the next generation of leaders. Let’s dive into the story of a man whose love for his community and passion for self-improvement continues to make a lasting impact.
Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
Growing up in Mahomet, I got to experience firsthand how hard work, dedication, and a strong sense of community can shape you. Playing sports like golf and cross-country taught me the value of discipline and sticking with something, even when it gets tough. After high school, I found myself interested in business because I loved the idea of making real connections and having a lasting impact. Starting out as a bank teller at Fisher National Bank of Mahomet and working up to a loan officer gave me a solid grounding in finance and customer service. From there, my curiosity led me to become a licensed plumber at Culligan of Champaign, where I got to dive into problem-solving every day. Now, I’m focused on analytics, always driven to keep learning and growing.
What was the pivotal “aha” moment that defined your leadership or business approach?
One memorable moment for me was during a golf tournament when I met a mentor who changed the way I saw my career. It showed me how being open to unexpected opportunities can make a huge difference. That experience taught me that real leadership is all about staying curious, learning, and always thinking about the bigger picture.
Another eye-opening experience was when I started working with analytics. I realized that data isn’t just about numbers—it can actually reshape how a business runs and how customers feel about it. It’s about blending data with human understanding to make a real impact.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them to achieve success?
Balancing work, family, and school was one of my toughest challenges. When I chose to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Millikin University while working full-time, I knew I was in for a serious juggling act. Time management had to become my superpower. Every free moment counted, whether it meant studying late into the night or waking up early to get ahead. It wasn’t easy at all, but it paid off. That degree brought me new opportunities and showed me just how resilient I could be. Another hurdle was moving from a hands-on, field-service job to one centered on data and analysis. I managed to get through that change by always being willing to learn and stay flexible.
How has your leadership or innovation significantly impacted your industry or community?
I’ve found ways to make business operations smoother and improve service by using data to make smart decisions. By looking at customer information and sales patterns, we’ve made our processes better, which has been great for both the company and our clients. Outside of work, I love giving back to the community. I’ve gotten involved with local groups that mentor young professionals and small business owners, helping them through the tough early days of their careers—something I really wish I had more support with when I started out. It’s so rewarding to see others grow and succeed. I also donate books to prisons, hoping to inspire change through education and self-improvement.
What advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs or leaders looking to make their mark in your industry?
Keep learning, no matter what. Whether it’s through school, training, or picking up practical skills, always be curious and open to new knowledge. And don’t be afraid to say yes to opportunities or lean on mentors for advice. Sometimes, a simple conversation or connection can open doors you never imagined. Remember, community matters, too. Building relationships and giving back can feel as fulfilling as any career milestone. Lastly, when you hit a roadblock, see it as a chance to learn. Every challenge has a lesson if you’re willing to look for it.
Can you highlight a specific project or initiative you’ve led that showcases your innovation and leadership?
One project I’m incredibly proud of was setting up a new system at work to better understand our customers. By paying attention to what people like and how they interact with our services, we could make their experience much more enjoyable. It wasn’t just about crunching numbers but about using that information to make a difference for our clients.
I’m also grateful for my role with SCORE Decatur, where I help aspiring entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life. There’s nothing quite like watching someone succeed and knowing that a bit of advice I gave made a positive impact. It’s a reminder of why I’m so passionate about mentorship and giving back to the community.
Key Takeaways
Talking with Kerry Gifford feels like hearing a story about more than work and career wins. It’s about how he’s grown, his determination to keep pushing forward, and his genuine desire to help others. Kerry’s love for learning meant plenty of late nights, but he never gave up or took the easy way out. What stands out the most, though, is his commitment to his community. Whether he’s mentoring young entrepreneurs or donating life-changing books, Kerry proves that real success is about the positive impact we make. His journey reminds us that hard work and kindness can go hand in hand and that the best legacies are built with thoughtful actions, one step at a time.
