We’re giving a big “O-Hi!” to Renata Winters, the newest addition to our team at OHI. Renata has a wealth of experience, a passion for the outdoors, and a vibrant energy that’s already making its impact. She has deep Midwestern roots and a knack for problem-solving; she really brings a lot to the party.
Renata made a noteworthy start to her career as a computer programmer, where she worked developing systems that are still in use in hospitals today. But her adventure began long before she entered the workforce. Fun fact: In her hometown, Renata’s first summer job was mowing a 16-acre cemetery. She kept up her physical health, but it also built up a strong work ethic that still motivates her now.
Her professional journey took her from a large corporation to a nonprofit trade association serving the Outdoor Hospitality Industry (that’s us!). Her search for the “perfect professional challenge” drove this change. A company reorganization gave Renata the chance to reassess her motivations. She came to see that, when paired with her love of planning and collaboration, her passion is producing outstanding results and adding value.
Renata’s excitement for her new role at OHI is obvious. She can now apply her vast project management knowledge to an industry she is passionate about both personally and professionally. She also shares her love of outdoor adventure with her husband, Brady, through their numerous camping adventures in their RV.
Renata’s experience integrating into the OHI team has been amazing. She talks positively of her coworkers’ kindness and patience, which make every day seem worthwhile. She finds purpose and belonging in the OHI community, which is completely in line with her values. Renata is excited to get to know our members, pick their brains, and assist them in being successful.
And she’s committed to improving OHI’s operational efficiency and structure. In order to free up her coworkers’ time to concentrate on their areas of expertise, she strives to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and streamline processes. She believes that by doing this, OHI will be able to fulfill its mission of empowering and assisting its members in their professional success.
Her superpower is her ability to simplify the complex. Renata is an expert in formulating detailed plans, carrying out projects through to completion, and dissecting unclear difficulties into doable tasks. She is dedicated to advancing OHI’s mission.
But we want to get to know her personally too. Her favorite outdoor adventures to date, you wonder? Boondocking on the rim of the Badlands in South Dakota stands out as a top experience. The stars were as bright as she’d ever seen – thanks to zero light pollution – and the views were amazing. Seeing a moose for the first time against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains was a close second favorite. After heading into Rocky Mountain National Park to witness the sunrise from their campsite in Estes Park, they rounded a corner and were rewarded with a sight of a juvenile bull moose lazily lounging in the lake. Breathtaking.
Her most memorable adventure, however, was a summer trip to the Smoky Mountains. “We were camping just outside of Gatlinburg and were at a lovely site that backed up to the Little Pigeon River. The recent rains caused a “flash flood” and the river nastily spewed over its banks – forcing almost the entirety of the campground to evacuate. It was a very humbling experience and I remember being completely overwhelmed at how the camping community all helped each other out! {The water subsided overnight, and after an evening at the local school we were able to return.} Mother Nature has a mind of her own – and is to be respected, always.”
Renata’s small-town, farm-kid roots from Midwest Minnesota shaped her into the hardworking, gritty individual she is today. Now, she resides in Hudson, WI, with her husband Brady and their pup, Dutton. And yes, Dutton is named after that popular Yellowstone family. And yes, he’s the cutest ever.
Renata’s best personal qualities shine through in her kind and positive nature. She loves building relationships and is dedicated to bringing energy and positivity to our team. And another fun fact: if she could master any skill instantly, it would be skiing the backcountry with confidence or being a dog whisperer – Dr. Doolittle-Winters.
We can’t wait to witness Renata’s amazing contributions to OHI and far beyond. Her enthusiasm for the Outdoor Hospitality Industry, wealth of project management expertise, and positive outlook will be hugely impactful and appreciated.
