Koss Olinger Welcomes Hartley Carlson
When did you start at Koss Olinger and what is your role?
August 10, 2020 and I am an Operations Analyst.
Where did you grow up?
Gainesville, Florida
Do you have any pets? If yes, please tell us about them.
I have an 11 year old beagle named Toby (full name Tobias Victor Carlson) who I’ve had since he was 6 weeks old. He’s literally my child and best buddy. He’s a little on the dainty side as he’s probably the only dog I’ve ever seen that actually looks where he steps because he doesn’t like his paws wet or dirty. He hates water, yet LOVES the snow, very confusing. He is a true hound dog and will track like crazy at the slightest scent of a fox, armadillo, bunny, etc. My fiancée, Joel, has a 6 year old weimaraner named Archie, who quickly became a second child to me as well. A perfect watch/alarm dog to strangers but he’s really just a big teddy bear. I also “share custody” of another beagle, Otis, with my parents. A friend of mine found him on a golf course when I was living in NC and Toby and I gladly took him in. It wasn’t long before he ended up with my parents who had just lost our family beagle, and he is pretty much #1 in my Dad’s world now and they are attached at the hip, but I get to keep him whenever they are in Gainesville :).
What is something people would find surprising to learn about you?
I absolutely love to cook! (and have been told I’m quite good at it). My father’s mother was German and she and my Dad taught me to cook at a young age, mostly by taste. Therefore, I rarely adhere to recipes, and often include a little German flavoring which is known to be a sweet and sour type taste (i.e. vinegar and sugar).
Also, I’m an avid golfer and started playing at 8 years old! A few years ago played TPC Sawgrass with my Dad and parred the #17 (the island green)!
What do you consider to be your best quality?
Lately, I’d say my outlook on life. I try to look at everything as glass half full and find the silver lining. There can always be one if you look hard enough. I try to count my blessings every day and try to be a better person today than I was yesterday.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from history who would it be and why?
Although many, I’d have to say Thomas Edison is high on the list because his story is one of the truest examples of perseverance. I would love to know what kept him motivated after continuously failing, never knowing if he’d ever accomplish his objective, and how he maintained that determination.
What is the best advice you ever received?
Do what you say, and say what you mean. Treat others as THEY want to be treated.
What is your super power?
I pride myself on being able to put things together just by looking at the pictures.
What is your favorite food?
Steak, pizza, or kid’s snacks
What do you think is your biggest contribution to the Koss Olinger team?
I think my work ethic, humility, and team mentality. I was taught growing up my number one job in any job is to make my boss look good until I no longer have a boss! Mostly meaning while we may have individual and personal goals, my priority will always be with contributing to the success of the team. I’d also say from my perspective that there is no job or task too small for me to ever do. Every role, responsibility, and even the smallest contribution is vital to the success of a great team and company. I think my ability to know when to lead, or follow, give suggestions, or follow directions, while always contributing to the team goal, is also something I take a great deal of pride in.