Kerry Gifford, a Senior Data Analyst from Mahomet, Illinois, believes in the power of education and giving back. From crunching numbers to mentoring young entrepreneurs, he’s found innovative ways to inspire change. Recently, his efforts culminated in a community book drive that donated over 6,200 books to local institutions—an initiative that reflects his commitment to making a difference one step at a time. Business Insiders sat down with Kerry to uncover the story behind his success and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
What’s your approach to leadership, and how has it evolved over time?
Good leadership is about serving and empowering others. Early in my career, I thought it was about giving orders and making decisions. But I’ve learned it’s really about listening and understanding your team. As a Senior Analyst, I help guide teams in making decisions based on data. I focus on making sure everyone feels heard and appreciated, which has improved teamwork and sparked creative ideas.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career, and what did you learn from them?
I owe much of my career growth to a mentor I met at a golf tournament. He opened my eyes to new possibilities, including shifting from banking to technical roles at Culligan. He emphasized the value of being adaptable and always learning, lessons that have greatly influenced my journey.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken in your career, and how did it pay off?
Balancing work, family, and school was one of my toughest challenges. While working full-time, I decided to pursue a degree in Computer Science at Millikin University, a choice that required long nights, early mornings, and constant determination. Sometimes I doubted if I could handle it all, but I kept pushing forward, driven by the desire to shift into a more technical career. Earning that degree wasn’t just about career advancement; it was a powerful reminder that persistence and hard work can lead to incredible opportunities.
What trends do you see shaping the future of your industry, and how are you preparing for them?
Industries everywhere rely more on data to make better decisions, and this trend is only growing stronger. Technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning transform how we analyze information and predict outcomes. They help businesses discover patterns and insights previously out of reach, enabling faster and smarter choices.
I actively seek out opportunities to learn to keep pace with these changes. I’m exploring AI and ML through courses and finding ways to use these tools in my work. Attending workshops and webinars also helps me stay connected with others who are navigating similar challenges.
What failure taught you the most, and how did you bounce back from it?
Early in my banking career, I made a mistake on a client’s loan paperwork. It wasn’t a small slip—it could have affected their finances and trust in me. I felt embarrassed and anxious when I discovered it, but I knew I had to take responsibility. I immediately contacted the client, apologized, and quickly fixed the problem. That experience taught me two key lessons: the value of paying close attention to details and owning up to mistakes. To ensure it wouldn’t happen again, I created a simple checklist I still rely on today. This moment shaped how I view accountability at work and in life. Mistakes are inevitable, but how we handle them shows our true character.
What habits or routines do you follow that contribute to your success?
Each morning, I review my plans for the day, which helps me stay focused on what’s important. I also enjoy activities like golfing and hiking to stay balanced and manage stress. Mentoring young entrepreneurs through SCORE Decatur is another passion of mine—it’s rewarding and keeps me engaged with my community.
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects or goals on the horizon that you can share?
I’m thrilled to share that we recently completed a community book drive, donating 6,200 books to local institutions in Champaign County. It’s part of my ongoing mission to make education accessible to everyone. Looking ahead, I’m exploring ways to integrate more mentorship opportunities into my work, possibly through partnerships with local schools or businesses.
Key Takeaways
Kerry Gifford’s story shows that success is about more than advancing in your career—it’s about growing, learning, and giving back. He balances work and studies, mentors young entrepreneurs, and finds ways to make a difference in his community. Kerry’s journey inspires us to face challenges, stay connected to our communities, and remain curious. He proves that even small efforts can create meaningful change through his work in data analysis or organizing book drives.
