Meet the Team: Melissa Haigh
Tell us a little bit about your background.
I was born in Oklahoma but spent most of my childhood raising goats and cows on a small farm in Wisconsin. After high school graduation, I moved to Indiana and attended Valparaiso University where I received a BS in Mechanical Engineering. Living in Indianapolis, I met my husband, and we have since migrated south to the mountains of Tennessee and the foothills of Alabama. I paused my engineering career when our children were born and navigated the challenges of homeschooling while raising three unique children. I have spent the last 20 years teaching, coaching a local swim team, and always keeping engineering projects on the side as a creative outlet.
Why did you choose to work in this industry?
Honestly, it was a God thing. My oldest child had just graduated from college. My second is at Auburn, and my youngest is dual enrolling at a community college while finishing high school. Essentially, I was forced to retire from homeschooling. Twelve hours after praying about what I should do with my life after a 20+ year sabbatical, the President of 5 Star Recruiting called and offered me a job. I had not even told anybody I was looking.
Tell us about your approach to recruiting.
My life motto is “Do Hard Things” which reverberates through my myriad interests. Changing jobs is stressful, and people often question their own abilities after losing a job. My goal is to encourage and coach people along, raise the bar, and watch them shoot for the moon!
Describe yourself using only film titles.
It’s a Wonderful Life! Don’t be afraid to take The Road Less Traveled. Remember to be Courageous, don’t forget to look Up, and always Pay It Forward.
What one song will you always know every word to?
"The Blessing" – Kari Jobe
What does a perfect vacation look like for you?
Spending time with family making memories whether skiing in the mountains, playing at the beach, flipping off the dock, or traveling to unique countries.
What is your favorite book or movie character?
Unbroken detailing the life of Louie Zamperini
What’s your pizza order?
Margherita pizza with an arugula salad à la mode.
Favorite quote?
“Enjoy the little things for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” - Robert Brault
