Our team is at the heart of everything we do at TLA, and we’re honored to share the stories of three team members who are celebrating major milestones with us this year!
We couldn’t be more grateful to have Jennifer, Will, and Taylor on Team TLA. Keep reading for their journeys to TLA and what makes it all worth it.
Celebrating 25 Years: Jennifer Kirkman, Quotes Coordinator
What was your path to TLA?
I was working at an electrical contractor, and my co-worker’s wife was working at The Lighting Agency. I needed a change of scenery and heard that TLA was looking for a customer service representative, so I reached out to his wife, and the rest is history.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
I love being outdoors and enjoy camping and fishing with my family. We love watching our son play multiple competitive sports and training/walking our Labrador Retriever.
I also really enjoy watching sports, especially the NFL (our Denver Broncos) and NLL (our Colorado Mammoth).
What stands out from your time at TLA?
My favorite memory is meeting my husband while on a TLA Ski Trip.
Celebrating 10 Years: Will Cobb, Quotations Manager
What was your path to TLA?
In 2013, I was connected to TLA Principal Ryan Stewart through the CU IES chapter. I started at The Lighting Agency straight out of college, so it was my first job in the industry.
I began working as an application engineer in the Inside Sales department. After a year of Inside Sales, I moved into the Quotations department.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Spending time with my family; We have three boys that keep me very busy.
What stands out from your time at TLA?
Every day in the Quotes department brings new challenges, but TLA has always felt like a family where everyone’s input matters.
From my first interview, it was clear that TLA was a place where they wanted you to have a career and not just a job.
Celebrating 5 Years: Taylor Barnhardt, Specification Sales
What was your path to TLA?
While attending CU, a former employee of TLA gave a guest lecture in one of my lighting courses. He was so passionate about the lighting industry and his career as a rep that I asked if I could intern for TLA during the summer.
After interning with TLA and getting a taste of the business, I was offered a full-time position after graduation, and the rest is history.
What do you do when you’re not working?
Some of my current hobbies include dancing, fashion, listening to podcasts, working out, and traveling.
What stands out from your time at TLA?
My favorite memory at TLA thus far was closing out my first full year as an outside sales rep. My trajectory to specification sales was delayed a bit due to COVID, so I was extremely proud to get a full year of experience under my belt and to realize that I accomplished and surpassed all the goals I set for myself.