In this insightful Employee Spotlight Q&A, John Ramirez, NCFL’s new Recruiting Specialist, opens up about his personal life, career trajectory, and what drew him to join the NCFL team. With candor and passion, John provides a glimpse into his background, shedding light on his motivations, experiences and aspirations.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career.
A: I am married to an incredible wife, Nikki, and we are the proud parents of two extraordinarily active children, Gabriel and Avery. On weeknights and weekends, you’ll generally find me driving my children to football fields, dance competitions, basketball courts, track meets, and the list goes on with the activities that keep us busy. I am an enormous sports fan suffering through many Jets, Mets and Knicks seasons. In my down time, I enjoy spending time with friends, cooking on the grill or kicking back with a good old movie night.
I earned a master’s degree from Marist College in Community Counseling Psychology. My motivation to pursue a degree in psychology stems from a desire to help people. This has led me to a career in recruitment. Spent nearly the past 13 years with an organization that provided services in Early Intervention, preschools and schools for children on the autism spectrum. Throughout my career I have been instrumental in strategic planning, business development, identifying new talent and fostering the continued growth of our companies.
Q: What made you want to work at NCFL?
A: It became time in my career that I was seeking a change in order to further my goals and expand my skill set. In my search I came across NCFL and was fortunate to receive an invite for an interview. In my research in preparation for my interview, I learned about NCFL’s mission and how their goals aligned with what I was seeking. During the interview process I was able to meet with the HR team and truly felt that this was the place for me. Additionally, in seeing the new Achievement Center and getting a chance to see where NCFL is heading, I knew that my experience would help NCFL with their continued growth.
Q: What is your favorite part about working at NCFL so far?
A: First and foremost are my colleagues. I’ve been here a short time and I’ve been welcomed with open arms. Secondly, is the pure joy on the participants’ faces when our staff are engaging with them. We have such kind-hearted staff, and it shows through in the enjoyment and fun that individuals in our program have on a daily basis. Anyone can tell when it’s karaoke day with the music playing loud throughout the building and everyone singing along.
Q: What does it take to work at NCFL and what do you look for in candidates?
A: There are many qualities that we’re seeking in candidates to work at NCFL, such as patience, flexibility, and the ability to work through challenges. If I had to pinpoint one; it would be candidates that have a passion for the IDD population.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about working at NCFL?
A: NCFL is a place where you can become part of a family. We foster a welcoming atmosphere though compassion and empathy towards one another. We are a collection of selfless individuals seeking to positively impact the lives of our participants. If you want to hear more, give me a call and we’ll discuss.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of adults with I/DD and are considering a career with New Concepts for Living, we invite you to explore opportunities with us by visiting https://ncfl.net/careers/ to apply today and join us on a rewarding journey of care and compassion.
