January, 2002
Meet Jan Aho
by Steve Brose

Jan Aho is co-owner of Indepak with her husband Dave.  She is directing the development of a full-time Human Resources department that is being called Employee Services.  Jan helped start Indepak in 1967 by helping Dave wherever she was needed.  She remembers making forming molds out of plaster and running a manual thermoforming machine.  She also ran the company while Dave was away in the National Guard, and raised 4 boys along the way. 

Jan "officially" became an employee in 1986 working both part and full-time in different roles.  She has always been involved in planning company events, creates our newsletter, has worked running machines and helping out in our  Dental Tray Dept. Jan is gifted in being of service and helping people.  She has always had a concern for her employees, helping them with problems and trying to improve their quality of life.  She leads the bible studies and prayer groups at work, supports ministries, schedules marriage and parenting conferences, and has helped to successfully integrate her and Dave's faith into their business practices.  

Jan enjoys working together with her husband and feels like their individual gifts complement each other at Indepak.  Her boys have all worked here at one time or another.  Her son Chris is on a career path to run the company in the future.  She says that someone from her family is always here, so she likes being at work, and also thinks of her employees like her extended family.

Jan's interests include flower gardening and traveling.  She opened an orphanage that houses 15 children in El Salvador in 1994 and visits there every year or so.

Jan was born in Portland, Oregon.  She lived in Milwaukie in the same house all of her life until she was married.  Then she lived in Portland, Gresham, and finally Corbett.  She claims to be a true Oregonian and really likes the season's here with the changes in weather.  Jan likes the beach and the mountains in our state and especially likes the snow.

Co-worker comments:
"A good heart, always smiling and positive, compassionate, caring, generous.  Goes the extra mile for company events (Christmas party, Halloween, Picnics, etc.). Likes lemonade Mocha's."

"I can't think of a more kind or caring person.  She is always concerned for our well-being.  You couldn't ask for more from an employer."

"I appreciate her deep sense of caring.  She may be an owner, but her presence is not intimidating and reveals a big heart."

Thanks for letting us feature you this month Jan.  You are a vital part of the spirit of our workforce.  You have a big heart and care for those of us who work for you.  Your co-worker comments prove it.  We love you !

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