Stephen Horton
Senior Branch Manager
Education/Certification
Sam Houston State University – Certified Temporary Staffing Specialist (CTS)
Experience
I have been in the Staffing industry for 12 years and have been fortunate enough to have worked multiple roles. I have worked in Sales, Sales Management, Market Management, and Sr. Management positions
Professional Awards / Achievements
I have been fortunate enough to win multiple awards throughout my career but my greatest satisfaction is helping the people I work with and my customers achieve their goals.
Bucket List Item
Would love to take an African safari – Not to shoot, just to see the amazing animals in their own habitat
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
...me to be honest enthusiastic and straight forward. I will do what I say I will do!
Advice for a job seeker in today’s market
Be persistent and treat your search like a job. Set a plan for each day and execute that plan. Network as much as you possibly can, you never know who you may meet.
Candace Gaskin
Senior Business Development Consultant, Carlton Staffing
Education/Certification
Bachelor’s Degree in Corporate Communications with a Minor in Human Resources Training and Development
Experience
4 years in the staffing industry with a mix of experience in Recruiting & Sales
Bucket List Item
Go on a mission trip, Climb Enchanted Rock, travel to Europe, volunteer at the Sloth Institute of Coast Rica (#ilovesloths) and snorkel in Hawaii
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
An outgoing personality and out of the box thinker. I’m happy to help talk through any situation to get to the root cause of a problem so please do not hesitate to ask!
Advice for a job seeker in today’s market
Don’t give up! When there is a will, there is a way! Come up with creative ways to get your resume seen, never limit yourself to one resource, and seek a professional to assist you with formatting your resume.
Katie Sechrist
Director of Operations
Education/Certification
NAPS CTS Certification, obtained 7/23/2008
Experience
Recruiting and Operations Management since 2004 in a variety of fields including Administrative, Light Industrial, Technical, and Skilled Trade.
Professional Awards & Achievements
Houston Area Association of Personnel Consultants:
- 2018 1st place Team Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2018 1st place Individual Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2017 1st place Team Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2017 1st place Individual Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2016 1st place Team Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2016 1st place Individual Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2015 2nd Place Team Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2015 1st Place Individual Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2013 3rd Place Team Award – Blended Svc Division
- 2012 3rd Place Team Award – Blended Svc Division
Stupid Human Tricks
When I'm not working hard at Carlton Staffing, you'll find me cooking sweets for my Etsy shop or spending time with my husband and children. I completed the Houston Aramco Half Marathon in January 2013, a full marathon in the Chevron Houston Marathon in January 2014, and the Galveston Half Marathon on Valentine's Day 2016 with my 11-year-old daughter who I'm proud to say has caught the running fever!
Bucket List Item
Participate in La Tomatina (the world’s biggest tomato fight) in Spain.
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action:
“It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from. The ability to triumph begins with you—always,” - Oprah Winfrey.
When you speak/work with me, you can expect….
Professionalism, integrity, and honesty
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Create a professional email address if you don’t already have one, join every networking organization you can find in your industry, and don’t take rejection personally! Finding the right job can take a considerable amount of time. Keep a positive attitude and don’t give up!
Sara Lozano
Operations Manager
Education/Certification
High School Diploma
Experience
I’ve worked with Carlton Staffing’s Southwest branch since 2004 handling industrial, skilled trade, and administrative staffing.
Professional Achievements
I have received Achievers Awards, Top Producer Awards, and Million Dollar Club Awards while working at Carlton Staffing, and I was promoted from Administrative Assistant to Staffing Consultant, then Senior Staffing Consultant, and my most recent promotion was to Operations Manager over the Southwest branch.
Bucket List Item
Travel all over the world!
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
Honesty, excellent customer service, and results.
Advice for a job seeker in today’s market
Make sure your resume is updated. Make sure you research the company before your interview. Be on time. Dress presentably for the interview, write notes, ask questions, make eye contact, and maintain good posture.
Annette Monks
President
Education/Certification
BA, Communication, University of Houston; Certified Temporary Staffing Specialist (CTS)
Experience
I have been in the staffing business since 1990 working virtually every type of field position in recruitment (operations), sales, training, management and executive management.
Professional Achievements
My greatest achievement is having the opportunity to work with the fantastic people at Carlton Staffing and Carltech Engineering & Technical!
Stupid Human Tricks
I am a competitive ballroom dancer and I love to go hunting with my husband! How’s that for variety?
Bucket List Item
Hike up to Machu Picchu with my husband and family.
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
That I will get to the point very quickly and get things done at the same speed!
Advice for a job seeker in today’s market
Treat your job search like a sales job. Create a huge pipeline from many different places, know what your target job is and how to describe what you do, network like crazy, plan each day and execute an organized, well-disciplined call/email/social media plan daily. Do not stop searching until you have started your new job! Understand that you will get more “no’s” than “yes’s” but it only takes one yes!
Cindy Jennings
Vice President
Education/Certification
BS in Aquatic Biology, UT Austin; CTS – Certified Temporary Staffing Specialist
Experience
40+ years in sales and sales management, 30+ of which have been in the staffing industry, 15+ of the best at Carlton Staffing!
Professional Achievements
As a result of my performance in sales and management, I’ve been blessed to be given the opportunity to train others in every company I’ve worked. The ability to assist others reach higher levels of success and help them find additional ways to contribute to the success of the company is extremely satisfying. And while I’m proud of each individual award I have earned, I am more proud when someone I’ve worked with and trained is recognized for their accomplishments.
I have been privileged to serve on the Board of Directors of HR Houston and Chair their Legislative Action Committee. I currently serve as an HR Houston Ambassador. I have also served on the Board of the Texas Association of Staffing, both as Legislative Committee Chairperson and as President. As an active member of The Professional Group in Houston, I serve on the Board as the VP of Meeting Coordination.
Stupid Human Tricks
I love to build and fix things, especially if that requires power tools, wood glue and clamps – kind of a MacGyver with a tool belt!! I also enjoy giving thrift store finds a “new life” as something different than their original purpose.
Bucket List Item
Walking tour of the Australian outback; hiking in the rain forest in Costa Rica
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
...to laugh. You will also get lots of questions, honesty and enthusiasm.
Advice for a job seeker in today’s market
Do your homework! With all the resources available today there is no excuse for showing up at an interview without having visited their website and the LinkedIn profiles of people you’re scheduled to meet! Be prepared with questions (written out ahead of time is fine) and have a portfolio so you can take notes during the interview. A good interview is essentially an exchange of information that will be critical to the hiring decision. Walking in empty handed is a signal that you don’t expect to learn anything.
Beth Hammond
Area Vice President: Southwest Central Branch, Southeast Branch
Education/Certification
B.A. History, B.A. Political Science, Trinity University
Experience
I entered the staffing industry in 1998 as an entry level recruiter with no prior experience, and have worked hard to move up the ladder to the position I hold today, as an Area Manager.
Professional Achievements
My Southwest Branch has been the top performing office since 2014.
I have been privileged to serve on the Board of Directors for the Houston Area Association of Personnel Consultants, most recently as President, and currently as Past President and Treasurer. I am also a member of Carlton’s Million Dollar Club ($11 million), and have managed Carlton’s Top Performing Branch 2004-2019.
Stupid Human Tricks
In my spare time, I volunteer for S.A.V.E. Rescue Coalition as a foster parent for homeless cats and kittens.
Bucket List Item
I would love to go on an African safari!
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
I am someone who can always be depended on to do what I say I’m going to do.
Advice for a job seeker in today’s market
Follow up! You’d be surprised how many people don’t do simple things like send a thank you note or email after an interview. Also, make sure to follow up post-interview to reaffirm your interest in the position and find out when the employer expects to make a decision.
Brenna Barnett
Director of Marketing
Education/Certification
Bachelors in Marketing, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Bucket List Item
Swing at the end of the world in Cantón Baños, Ecuador
Inspiring quote that drives you to action
"Be the change you want to see in the world"- Gandhi
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
To see quick results from my hard work and dedication!
Advice for a job seeker in today’s market
Stay positive, do your best, make as many connections as possible and never give up!
Shawn Kowalski
Staffing Consultant
Education/Certification
Some College Completed
Experience
I’ve have been in the staffing industry since 2002. I have staffed industrial, skilled trades, administrative and professional.
Bucket List Item
I want to visit all the continents.
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
“A leader is someone who helps improve the lives of other people or improve the system they live under.” - Sam Houston
When you speak/work with me, you can expect….
Honesty/Straight Forward/Results
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Make sure you keep your resume updated and have all your skills posted on it. Don’t be afraid of a 2-3 page resume. Research the company you are interviewing for and have a few questions to ask. Make sure you are 10-15 minutes early for the interview.
Devyn Gomez
Staffing Consultant
Education/Certification
Wade College – Fashion Marketing & Merchandising
Experience
Operations management with sales experience in a variety of fields.
Bucket List Item
To be in Santorini, Greece off of the Caldera cliff watching the sunset.
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
“Be humble. Be Hungry. And always be the hardest worker in the room.” – Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
When you speak/work with me, you can expect….
When working with me you can expect a smile, open communication, and trustworthiness.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Be honest, 15 minutes early, professional appearance from head to toe, remain confident by always making eye contact along with a firm handshake.
Tona Buster
Area Manager
Tona has been with Carlton Staffing for four months, she has 34 years of experience in the staffing arena. Her commitment to customer service has allowed Tona to lead many offices to top performing branches. Tona currently manages the Dallas and Ft. Worth branches. Her passion for creating and driving a team of talented individuals to succeed in meeting and exceeding the expectations of clients is what she loves the most.
Shan Bailey
Recruiting Coordinator
Education
B.A. Finance; M.A. Human Resources Management
Experience
I have over 20 years retail experience. I decided to change careers 5 years ago. I enrolled in to Graduate school and pursued my Masters in HR Management. Recruiting is something I have always wanted to do and I am so excited to have been given this opportunity with such a great company like Carlton.
Stupid human tricks
My husband thinks it’s cool I can raise each eyebrow one at a time.
Bucket List Item
Seeing the world, traveling to as many places as I can. Get the courage to jump out of a plane. Conquering my fear of water and learning to swim.
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou
When you speak/work with me, you can expect….
Humor, professionalism, and diligence.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Encourage constructive criticism. Allow someone to help you be better. Always present yourself in a professional manner regardless of the level of pay you are seeking. First impressions are everything.
Christie Derry
Business Development Consultant
Experience
9 year staffing experience in the roles of Recruiter, Account Manager and Business Development Consultant.
Professional awards, achievements
Awarded top producer 2 consecutive years.
Stupid human tricks
I spend my free time with my pet pig Boogie.
Bucket list item
I dream of seeing the Alaskan Northern Lights.
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
"You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do." - Eleanor Roosevelt
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
A person who is committed to matching great companies and great employees.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Approach every job interview confident that this company would be lucky to have you.
Jackson Mewbourn
Business Development Representative
Education
First Baptist Academy of Dallas
Experience
One year in Sales
Professional awards, achievements
3 Division one Football Scholarship Offers. (Not a lot of people can say they have achieved that that’s why I put in on here even though it is not in a professional award.)
Stupid human tricks
I can eat an entire ghost Pepper without crying for twenty minutes
Bucket list item
Going to see a Red Sox Playoff game at Fenway with my Dad
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
“Does your Girlfriend think you’re a worthless loser? Good pick up the phone and start dialing, Are you behind on your credit card payments? Good pick up the phone and start dialing.” –Jordan Belfort/Dicaprio Wolf of Wall Street
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
A devotion to getting things done and on time.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Dress for the job you aspire for, be respectful and receptive, and be flexible and approachable.
Brandie Coleman
Business Development Consultant
Education
Splendora High School – Business Management Certificate – OSHA 10 Certified
Experience
I entered the Staffing industry in 2014, I came into the industry with 15 years sales background from a different industry.
Professional Awards & Achievements
For the 6 years in staffing, I have been awarded the top producer and presented with the Diamond Club award every year.
Bucket list item
Skydiving
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” - Philippians 4:13
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
Honesty, Loyalty & Successful results.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
MAKE YOUR 11 SECONDS COUNT. To be noticed and stand out in a stack of resumes make sure to express your past position, length of position and outstanding accomplishments.
Daniel Smiley
Staffing Consultant
Experience
26 years staffing industry experience
Professional Awards & Achievements
10 year proud US Army vet
Stupid human tricks
Professional Singer who loves guitar
Bucket list item
Visit Hawaii
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
“Procrastination is the enemy of progress”, “Your life is the sum total of your thinking. If you want a different life, you must begin to think differently”.
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
Me to work hard, be straightforward, open, honest and super supportive.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Don’t let a NO discourage you. Don’t give up on yourself. Keep going until you reach your desired destination.
Vanessa Villarreal
Staffing Consultant
Education/Certification
Stephen F. Austin High School, Texas School of Business (Medical Billing Cert.)
Experience
Over 10 years in staffing- medical staffing (2010-2013), light industrial/skilled trade/administrative staffing (2013-present)
Professional Awards & Achievements
Awarded top producer 2 years in a row at Automation Staffing, received top producing branch award while at Link Staffing
Bucket list item
Swim with dolphins
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
Will forever be the Serenity Prayer - “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
100% honesty and definitely a good laugh when needed!!
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
First impressions are EVERYTHING!!! Always sell yourself and let the employer know what you CAN DO versus what you think you can’t!
Jacob Teague
Staffing Consultant
Education/Certification
Degree in Welding Technology and Certification in Facilities Maintenance
Experience
Wide variety of hands on skilled trade’s experience with several years of operations in staffing.
Professional Awards & Achievements
Safety Award
Bucket list item
Go hiking in New Zealand
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” – Henry Ford
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
You can expect a listening ear.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Map out your route and take a practice drive the day before to make sure there is no obstacles in your route and you can make it 10 mins early.
Courtney Hahn
Staffing Consultant
Experience
Experience in Real Estate and Government Contracting.
Stupid human tricks
I can pop my shoulder in and out of place!
Bucket list item
Go to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, it looks beautiful!
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
“Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.” – Tim Notke
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
Honest conversations and excellent customer service.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Get creative with your job search, always be early, and remember that confidence Is key!
Courtney Heater
Staffing Consultant
Education/Certification
Some College Alvin Community College
Experience
12 years of sales experience and 2 ½ in Staffing
Professional Awards & Achievements
Consistently meet my monthly and quarterly goals.
Bucket list item
I would love to visit Australia!
Quote that you actually are inspired by and that drives you to action
Fear is a Liar!
When you speak/work with me, you can expect…
Straightforward, honest answers. I want to help people as efficiently as possible.
Can you please share what your best advice would be for a job seeker looking for a new position in today’s market?
Update your resume! Some employers will only take seconds to look, it wastes your time when you send it out with incorrect information.
Meet our Team








