My Story: The Latest Chapter
Steve Maloney 

One last chapter to share — this will be the final post in the series of My Story.

I hope this series has helped you get to know me better and given you a clearer understanding of who I am and what drives me. I really appreciate those of you who reached out to connect or provide feedback.

This final post will highlight the past decade. Previously, I mentioned that I had transitioned into the role of Vice President of Human Resources and Division Culture at International Wire Group. One of my top priorities was improving organizational culture, which is why I asked that it be included in my title.

In this role, I had the opportunity to grow the human resources team and work on initiatives such as employee development and recruiting strategies to attract employees to challenging rural locations. It was extremely rewarding.

The amount of learning and growth that took place at this time was critical for my career, and for that I’m grateful. I was presented with challenges that I hadn’t really anticipated and had to quickly adjust, learning that this was simply part of the role. Remember my earlier reflections on change? This period reinforced them. I had responsibilities that I didn’t relish, and the job wasn’t easy — but when is it? Sometimes we’re called to do things we wouldn’t choose, and the key is finding a way forward regardless.

A pivotal next step in my Human Resources career was when Kirk Wardell, President at Marquardt Switches at the time, reached out to me to join as Director of Human Resources. I first met Kirk when he was Director of Operations, and I was delivering Crucial Conversations and Situational Leadership II training at Marquardt.

Kirk is on MACNY’s Manufacturers Wall of Fame — and for good reason. He had a profound impact on everyone he interacted with, me included. I consider him a mentor. Our relationship was unique, and it was the first time I truly felt I had a partner in Human Resources. We spent countless hours discussing human potential and how to maximize employee engagement and growth. Together, we worked on what he called the “Maturity Continuum,” developing a tool to track employee growth over time. It was his passion, and he believed deeply that investing in people was essential to achieving long-term organizational success. His vision and commitment to his principles are something I will always admire.

Unfortunately, Kirk later left the organization and was diagnosed with cancer. I stayed in touch with him. His grit, determination, and unwavering positivity, despite his illness, left a lasting impression on me. He showed me that no matter how difficult things become, you keep moving forward and focus on what truly matters. When he passed, the outpouring of recognition and respect at his services was a testament to the impact he had — not just at Marquardt, but on everyone he encountered. I aspire to lead with the same qualities he embodied: humility, courage, and selflessness.

During this period, I was faced with a big challenge: COVID. We had to find ways to keep the business going and navigate all the changing regulations. This was an immense test, but I thank God for the example and support that Kirk’s leadership provided. He reinforced the importance of truly connecting with employees and treating them as people first.

The last big challenge for me was leading the downsizing of our operations in Cazenovia. This impacted many employees, and it impacted me as well. It took an emotional and psychological toll, yet I still had to show up as a leader during an incredibly difficult time. I’ll be honest, I wish I had handled certain moments better. But I also know how much I learned, and those lessons continue to shape who I am today.

The good news is that every step in this journey led me to where I am now — returned to MACNY as Director of Training, doing what I love and fulfilling my “why”.  The journey isn’t over, and the growth continues. I’m intentional about what comes next.

I hope my journey so far has resonated with you and will facilitate an opportunity to connect and partner together. Please reach out. Let’s get a coffee or have lunch and get to know each other. It takes a village, as they say, and I want to be there to support you on your journey.

Thanks for reading and taking an interest in my personal story … now what’s your story?