BTS Behind the Scenes is a chance to showcase the people who are making things happen at BTS and give you a “behind the scenes” look into their worlds. In this month’s feature we’ll talk with Senior Financial Analyst Katlyn Carder and hear about family, fitness, and what happens when your entire family is in accounting.

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You started your career in accounting and now serve as a financial analyst at BTS—what’s that journey been like, and what drew you back to a small business environment?

I’ve dabbled in both finance and accounting over the last 6-7 years, so my current role has felt like a pretty natural progression. What I enjoy most about a small business environment is the opportunity to have a more direct impact. In smaller organizations you often get more visibility into the full scope of the business, and I value being part of a close knit team where collaboration is immediate and cross-functional. I also enjoy having closer relationships with my colleagues, so for me it just feels like I can work more meaningfully in a small business environment.

What has stood out to you so far about BTS’ atmosphere/culture?

What stood out to me most about the company’s culture is just how genuinely people care about each other as individuals, not just as coworkers. For instance, when I went out on maternity leave a few months ago a lot of people reached out to make sure we were all doing ok and even sent gifts, there’s just such a sense of support at BTS. It makes a big difference working somewhere where you feel like people care and genuinely want you to succeed. 

We heard all your immediate and extended family members are also in accounting! What do you all talk about at Thanksgiving?

Not accounting LOL! We have a huge extended family (about 60 people) and we spend every Thanksgiving and Christmas together. Not only does the majority of my family work in accounting, but everyone is also obsessed with soccer, so the conversation typically always turns to who’s teams are playing well, who’s overrated, and of course a family soccer game every Thanksgiving. The only time numbers come up on Holidays is if we’re talking game stats 🙂

What’s the most satisfying part of your week? What are your wins?

The most satisfying part of my week is kind-of twofold. Professionally, it’s when I can see the impact of my work. A lot of my day to day is forecasting financials, and being new(ish) at BTS I find a lot of pride in providing accurate, consistent data, and providing clarity when I can. Personally, coming home to my family brings a whole different kind of fulfillment. So in terms of my wins- growing both professionally and as a parent makes the week feel truly meaningful for me.

Outside the office, how do you recharge? We hear you’ve traded soccer cleats for pilates—and are a bit of a true crime podcast fan?

Yes, working out is definitely a way for me to recharge during the week. I played soccer for almost 30 years nonstop and after having a couple children I just can’t run the same as I used to, ha! I’ve opted for lower impact workouts these days, like pilates. And yes, I am true crime obsessed. That includes podcasts like Going West and Crime Junkie, but I also love a good true crime documentary binge! My favorites are The Staircase and The Jinx.

With a new baby at home and a new role at BTS, how has your perspective on work and balance evolved over the last few months?

Having a new baby at home has definitely shifted my perspective in a good way. It’s made me more intentional with my time and it’s actually increased my confidence. I’ve learned to prioritize more effectively, trust my instincts, and communicate more clearly. All things that have had a positive impact on my personal and work life! Stepping into a new role around the same time as having a new baby has kind of just reinforced all of the above. I’ve come to realize that a work-life balance isn’t about perfection, it’s about being present and making meaningful progress in both areas. 

 

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Tags: features, katlyn carder, staff