Katie Thiele
HR Manager
Katie joined Riley Construction in February 2022 as Human Resources Manager, bringing more than 20 years of HR experience in the manufacturing and construction industries. She holds an MBA from the Keller Graduate School of Management, a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources from UW–Parkside, and is a SHRM-SCP (Society for Human Resource Management, Senior Certified Professional).
Born and raised in Kenosha County, Katie didn’t initially plan on a career in HR, or even on going to college. It wasn’t until her junior year of high school that she decided to pursue higher education. She began with prerequisite and business courses, eventually taking an elective HR class that sparked her interest. “The underlying theme for me in all my HR classes was the general desire to help and to contribute to the success of the bigger picture,” Katie said.
Outside of work, Katie is a proud mom of two. Her daughter has been a dedicated dancer for over a decade, while her son shares her love of the outdoors. Together, they enjoy kayaking, swimming, visiting beaches, and spending time in the sunshine.
Back to leadership
WHY I LOVE WHAT I DO
I genuinely love to help others, whether it’s supporting someone in pursuing the best version of themselves in their career, life, or whatever path they’re on. I live by the Golden Rule: ‘Treat others as you would want to be treated.’ In HR, I find joy in those moments when I can see an employee’s relief or hear them exhale when we’ve found a way forward that meets their needs. I want people to know they’re not alone in their journey.
Fun Fact
I am, and intend to always be, young at heart! Age is merely a number, and I’ll continue to take new adventures, dance like no one is watching, sing loudly in my car, and absolutely crush an air drum solo to Phil Collins’ ‘In the Air Tonight’ whenever the moment calls for it. Carpe Diem!
