First and Last Name: Haylie Havlik
Hometown: Waverly, IA
What Brought you to Fond du Lac: My husband and I relocated to Fond du Lac for our careers. While our jobs brought us here, what has convinced us to stay is the sense of community and opportunity to build relationships. Moving away from family and starting over in a new place has come with its challenges, but it has also been an incredible learning experience for both of us. As we’ve settled into the community, we’ve found welcoming people, built connections, and discovered how Greater Fond du Lac is special.
Place of Employment and Position: Empeople Credit Union, Mortgage Loan Originator
What do you enjoy the most about your career? I love helping people navigate the path to homeownership. Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones in a person’s life, and being able to educate, support, and celebrate with my members throughout that journey is incredibly rewarding. Every family and situation is different, which makes every day meaningful and keeps me learning.
What words of wisdom would you share with other YP’s in relation to career building? Don’t focus solely on climbing the ladder. Focus on building relationships, creating trust, and finding ways to serve others. The opportunities often come from the people you’ve helped and the trust you’ve built along the way. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Who or what inspires and motivates you to be your best? Professionally, the people I work with and the members I serve inspire me every day. Seeing someone achieve a goal they weren’t sure was possible, whether it’s buying their first home or finding a solution during a challenging time, reminds me why I love what I do.
Personally, my parents have always been my greatest inspiration. They provided me with a wonderful upbringing and instilled values that continue to guide me every day, including hard work, integrity, kindness, and the importance of showing up for others. They taught me that success isn’t measured only by accomplishments, but by the way you treat people and the impact you have on those around you.
What are 3 Characteristics and/or Strengths that make you who you are? Compassionate. Dependable. Solution-focused
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time/a hobby you enjoy? I enjoy spending time with family and friends and being outdoors. Since moving to Wisconsin, my husband and I have made it a point to take advantage of everything the state has to offer through the summer months. I am a little scared to embrace my first WI winter. Most of our free time, however, is spent at the racetrack. My husband races dirt track modifieds, so many of our weekends are centered around racing.
Name something you enjoy doing in the Greater Fond du Lac Area that others should check out:
Lakeside Park is one of my favorite spots in the area and one of the first places I’d recommend to someone new to Fond du Lac. Whether you’re taking a walk, enjoying the lake views, fishing, attending a community event, or simply spending time outdoors, it’s a great place to experience what makes this community special.
I also love visiting the Saturday Farmers Market and supporting local vendors. It’s a great way to picking up fresh produce! Another favorite summer activity has been attending Sunset on the Water on Sunday afternoons for their live music.
What is your favorite part about being in YPF/Envision and how has it benefited you? My favorite part is connecting with other young professionals who care deeply about this community. YPF has given me the opportunity to expand my network, learn from people in different industries, and develop relationships that have enriched both my professional and personal life.
How do you engage in our community? I engage in the community by building relationships, supporting local businesses and events, participating in community organizations, and helping individuals and families achieve their homeownership goals.
Share a lesson you have learned or a nugget of advice with other YP’s: Don’t underestimate the value of showing up consistently. You don’t have to have all the answers, but being reliable, willing to learn, and committed to helping others can open doors you never expected. Growth happens when you’re willing to learn from mistakes and keep moving forward.
What do you love about the Greater Fond du Lac Area today and what is your hope for its future in the years to come?
I love the strong sense of community in Greater Fond du Lac. People genuinely care about supporting one another and community growth. My hope is that the area continues to attract and retain talented young professionals while maintaining the welcoming, connected atmosphere that makes it such a great place to live and work.
