Associate Spotlight: Jennifer Knapke

At CASTO, we believe people are our most important asset. Meet Jennifer Knapke, a residential expert and community champion! Jen has been at CASTO for over 18 years, and she is a highly skilled member of our #CASTOCommunities team with a passion for customer service and community involvement. In addition to working closely with our community teams as Residential Operations Manager, she also coordinates our CASTO Golf Outing, an annual fundraising event that supports various non-profit organizations.  Read Jen’s CASTO story:

Tell us about your background with CASTO. 

I began my career with CASTO in 2004 as an Assistant Property Manager for the residential department. I worked at two different communities over the next several years, then accepted a Property Manager position in 2009. I really enjoyed my time onsite, but when an opportunity presented itself at the corporate office, I could not pass it up. In 2011, I accepted an operations position, and the rest is history! 

What do you like best about CASTO? What makes CASTO different? 

I am not the first to say it and will certainly not be the last: CASTO provides a culture that focuses on its associates. Coworkers feel more like family than team members. CASTO is also driven to be socially conscious. The company provides opportunities for us to support local causes, volunteer, and be active in our communities. 

What service or project have you liked working on the most while at CASTO? 

I absolutely love hosting our golf outing! Not only does this event take immense planning and organization; it also allows me to explore my creative side. CASTO has supported a number of organizations in the 12 years I have hosted this event including: Make a Wish, Capital Area Humane Society, Ronald McDonald House and Wounded Warrior Project. The most rewarding projects for me are those that require both left and right brain work. 

Share a little bit about your expertise in the industry. 

Did someone say I was an expert? That is awesome! My strongest attributes are keeping our teams on task and building relationships. Operations is a perfect fit for me.  

Strength in an organization comes from its people; and when you have great people, it is easy to look like an expert in everything you do! As I said before, we are a close group. We want to do the best for each other and for CASTO. That is what will always make us different.  

What changes or trends do you see happening in your area of expertise? 

Our team is constantly evaluating how we interact with our associates and our customers. We want to be sure that we are providing a company culture that is positive and forward thinking, while continuing to provide an awesome customer experience.  

Companies must continue to adjust their practices to meet the needs of new generations entering the workforce. We work hard to navigate these changes and determine how they fit into our organization and department. There is more work to do, but it feels great to be part of a team and a company that truly wants the best for its associates and its community.  

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