Matter Stories: Tami Lewis, Sr. Learning & Development Manager
Matter Stories is a series exploring the people driving Matterport’s mission to make every building and space more valuable and accessible.
Tell us about yourself. (Where are you located, what is your career journey, and what brought you to this industry?)
I am located in Cuyahoga Falls, OH, and have worked in the healthcare industry for 20 years, focusing on service excellence, culture transformations, executive coaching, and L&D. I have profound gratitude for the incredible opportunity I've had working remotely at Matterport, especially as a single woman who adopted a child. The remote work culture here has played a pivotal role in making my professional life manageable and genuinely enjoyable during this transformative phase of my personal life.
What excites you most about your role?
Despite the physical distance, I feel closely connected to my team, and we've maintained a strong sense of camaraderie. The virtual meetings and digital platforms have made it easy for me to stay engaged and contribute effectively from home. I love providing virtual instructor-led courses for all Matterpeeps and the opportunity to create a virtual classroom where other Matterpeeps can connect with their colleagues.
I am excited about the potential to contribute my skills to a dynamic and innovative industry and to build courses that contribute to the evolution of technology and its impact on workforce development. I am particularly impressed by Matterport's commitment to innovation and dedication to developing Matterport's workforce. The alignment of these values with my professional aspirations allows me to continuously create new courses that are meaningful to the employees of Matterport.
Tell us about your biggest accomplishment or favorite project at Matterport? What was it, were there any challenges, and how was it successful?
The creation of our Learning & Development catalog has been a game-changer for our organization. The L&D catalog is comprehensive and aligns with our business objectives, has enhanced our organization's skills and knowledge, and empowered us to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. The diverse range of learning opportunities, thoughtfully organized, has provided our employees with a clear roadmap for professional development, fostering a culture of continuous learning within our organization.
Equally commendable has been the impact of the executive coaching sessions. The personalized and goal-oriented coaching has been instrumental in our executives' professional growth and leadership development. I have had the privilege to identify and address individual strengths and areas for improvement, resulting in a more confident and effective leadership team.
What do you enjoy most about working at Matterport?
First and foremost, the flexibility provided by Matterport has been a lifeline for me as a single parent. The ability to shape my work hours has allowed me to be there for my child in ways I never thought possible. From school drop-offs to doctor's appointments, I've prioritized and participated in my child's life without compromising on the quality of my work. This flexibility has been a game-changer, allowing me to be present for my family when they most need me.
The adoption journey comes with unique challenges and adjustments, and Matterport's remote work environment has provided the support I needed. Working from the comfort of my home has allowed me to create a nurturing environment for my son, Noah. Eliminating the daily commute has saved me valuable time and reduced the stress of rushing to and from the office. This time saved has translated into more quality moments with my children, and I can now create a healthier and more harmonious environment at home.
Moreover, the remote work culture at our company fosters a sense of trust and autonomy that empowers me to deliver my best work. I've found that the focus is placed on results rather than the physical presence in an office. This has allowed me to excel in my role without feeling the need to sacrifice my family's needs. Working remotely has positively impacted my professional life and enabled me to be the best parent I can be. The supportive environment of our remote company has made it possible for me to achieve a fulfilling work-life balance, and I am grateful for the opportunities it has provided.
Thank you for fostering a culture that recognizes and values the diverse needs of its employees.
Do you have a favorite digital twin or a twin that resonates with you? Which is it and why?
I love the Seinfeld apartment twin, it’s my favorite. It feels like you’re right on set.