I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up.  At the same time, I ALWAYS knew what I wanted to be when I grew up.

The problem wasn’t a lack of potential careers.  From ballerina to teacher to archeologist… I “knew” what I wanted to do.  I just never knew long enough before I moved on to the next thing.

My first two years of college followed the same pattern my youth did.  Convinced I would be a pharmacist my freshmen year, the dream quickly died when I admitted my lack of skill for science.  This discarded major was quickly joined by English, Psychology and Social Sciences.

After much contemplation, I finally landed in the School of Management at University at Buffalo with a concentration in Human Resources.  Excited about my latest endeavor and convinced this would be “it,” I jumped in full speed ahead.  Society for Human Resource Management club, internships, mentoring, Teacher’s Assistant… I got involved in everything I could and finally knew I was on the right track.

I only had one hesitation – HR has a certain stigma about it.  Many have the view that it is a paper pushing profession with no seat at the table and a department that only works for the business… instead of working for the employees.

Through my studies and experiences, I quickly learned HR was much more than this stereotype.  I knew I wanted to work at a company that blew it out of the water!

After moving to Texas and learning about Rackspace, it became evident to me that HR at the Rack didn’t fit this stereotype.  Instead of working for the business, the HR department knew it needed to work for the business by first working for the employees.

Now, I work in the training department of HR, also known as “Rackspace University” (RU).  I couldn’t be more excited!

We have a vast array of technical and business training available to Rackers.  Traditional learning is complemented by e-Learning and there are multiple in-house certifications available.  Informal learning is also important; through book clubs, an on-site library and learning communities formed to facilitate open conversation between different groups.  We even hold on-site classes for various degree programs!  How cool is that!?

I’ve never seen a company with this level of dedication to the growth of its employees.  That’s how I knew Rackspace was where I needed to be.

As someone who finds value in continuous learning and development, I thought it would be important to start blogging on RackerTalent about the various programs and initiatives that RU has and continues to pursue.  I’m proud to be part of a department that can truly touch every employee that walks through our doors.

Stay tuned to learn more about how Rackspace University is making a difference in the careers of Rackers!

Originally from Buffalo, NY, Kelly Long joined the Rackspace University team in 2010 as a Project Lead.  In this role, Kelly is responsible for a variety of Training, OD and HR projects that impact Rackers.  She is also involved with the organization of internal talent communities.

Kelly graduated from the University at Buffalo with a degree in Business and a concentration in Human Resource Management.  While at UB, she was the President of the University SHRM Chapter.  Read more »

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