Celebrating a Decade of Dedication: Kari's 10-Year Journey at Wayne

Ten years ago, Kari walked into Wayne with a mindset that still fuels her today: “Wayne is where it’s at!” A decade later, her journey from receptionist to Repairs Supervisor is not just a testament to hard work—it's a story of growth, grit, and a deep-rooted passion for an ever-evolving industry.

Industry Knowledge & Expertise

Explaining Drive-Thru Tech to the Unfamiliar
Drive-thru technology might seem simple on the surface—microphones, headsets, and speakers—but in reality, it’s a sophisticated, fast-paced world where communication and reliability are everything. Kari describes it as the silent force that keeps quick-service restaurants running efficiently. “It’s all about seamless communication,” she says, “from the moment a customer places their order to when they drive away with their meal.”

A Decade of Change
The past ten years have brought significant innovations to drive-thru tech, and Kari has seen it all. She's been part of the evolution from analog to digital systems, from clunky hardware to sleek, cloud-connected solutions. “The pace of change has been incredible,” she notes. “There’s so much more integration now—AI, analytics, even remote troubleshooting.”

Exciting Innovations
When asked what excites her most about the industry, Kari lights up. “Wireless technology and AI-assisted troubleshooting are game-changers,” she says. “These innovations improve customer experience and make our jobs more efficient.”

Repair Challenges and Solutions
As a repairs supervisor, Kari is no stranger to problem-solving. “One of the most common issues we face is faulty headset audio,” she explains. “But it’s not just about fixing the problem—it’s about understanding why it happened and how to prevent it in the future.” Her hands-on experience allows her to train her team to think critically and solve problems with confidence.

Staying Current
In a world where technology changes almost daily, Kari makes it a priority to stay informed. She regularly attends training sessions, reads industry updates, and collaborates with vendors. “Learning never stops,” she says. “And honestly, that’s one of the best parts of the job.”

Professional Growth

From Filing to Leadership
Kari’s Wayne journey began in shipping and reception, where she packed orders and answered phones. Fast forward ten years, and she’s now leading her department. “Running my team has been the most rewarding part,” she reflects. “It’s a full-circle moment.”

Skills Sharpened Over Time
Kari has developed a well-rounded skill set from technical troubleshooting to people management. “I’ve grown in confidence, communication, and leadership,” she says. “I’ve learned to think on my feet and guide others through challenges.”

Stepping Into Leadership
One pivotal moment for Kari came when a newer team member turned to her for guidance during a complex repair. “It hit me—I was the one people looked to for answers. That’s when I realized I had truly grown into a leader.”

Support from Wayne
Kari credits Wayne for fostering her professional growth. “The company believed in me even before I believed in myself,” she shares. “They gave me the tools, the training, and the trust to run my own department.”

Advice for Newcomers
For those just starting out in drive-thru tech, Kari’s advice is simple but powerful: “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. There’s a lot to learn, but if you stay curious, you’ll go far.”

Looking Back

First Day Memories
Kari remembers her first day as if it were yesterday. “I told myself, ‘This is the place to be.’ I knew I had found something special.”

Early Roles and Milestones
Her first responsibilities included answering phones and shipping orders. One of her proudest early moments? “When I finally memorized all the different headset models,” she laughs. “It was overwhelming at first, but I stuck with it.”

Biggest Surprise Starting Out
“The biggest surprise was how much there is to know,” Kari says. “Drive-thru tech is a niche world with so many layers. Every day, I realized how much more there was to learn.”

Current Role & Reflections

A Day in the Life—Then vs. Now
Today, Kari’s role is much more dynamic than when she started. “I’m much more hands-on now. The volume is higher, the stakes are bigger, and I love it.”

What She Loves Most
What keeps her coming back every day? “No two days are the same,” Kari says. “Each day brings new challenges, new wins, and new opportunities to make an impact.”

The Wayne Culture
Wayne’s team culture is one of her favorite aspects.

“We’re a well-oiled machine,” she says proudly. “We grow together, we support each other, and we always find a way forward.”

What Drives Her After 10 Years
Even after a decade, Kari’s motivation hasn’t faded. “I’m still learning. I’m still growing. And that makes me excited for what’s next.”

Defining Success
For Kari, success isn’t just measured in numbers—it’s in the wins her team achieves and the solutions they deliver. “If my team is thriving, that’s the biggest measure of success.”

Looking Ahead

The Future of Drive-Thru Tech—and Wayne
Kari’s looking forward to continued innovation in the industry—and continued growth at Wayne. “This company has come so far, and I know we’re just getting started. The future is bright.”

Here’s to Kari—a dedicated leader, a constant learner, and a cornerstone of Wayne’s success. Congratulations on 10 amazing years!