Rebecca Baumgartner

About Rebecca Baumgartner

Growing up, my brother and I were outdoorsy kids. Whether playing hide-and-seek or riding bikes with the neighbors, we were always in nature. My dad took us fishing and camping and told us stories about his time in Vietnam. I admired his work ethic and persistence. His quiet, humble persona was simultaneously loving and serious. My very first job was at 12, babysitting for my neighbor. During my 4 summers in high school, I nannied for 2 different families where I realized that all my clients were either recommendations or referrals—because I did more than just babysit; I did whatever needed to be done around the house without having to be asked. I learned to under-promise and over-deliver. I attended college and waitressed at Ted’s Pizza concurrently. The owner loved how efficient I was, how quickly I learned, and how reliable I was. The experience taught me to deliver impeccable customer service, be ingenious, and never bail on a situation or colleague. I started my management career as a result of sheer luck and gumption. A friend who owned a bar had planned a vacation out of the country when his manager quit with no notice. I offered to step in while they were gone, despite having no management experience at that point. That turned into my first management job, where I learned that jumping feet-first into the deep end is often the best way to learn. I moved back up north to Wisconsin where I saw a job post for a new store that was opening, and I secured a key holder position. One month after I was hired, I was promoted to Assistant Store Manager, 6 months later I was promoted to Store Manager, 6 months after that, I was promoted to District Assistant, and 1 year later, I was promoted to District Manager.I have learned that when something calls to you in your gut, listen to that and do not let others’ lack of faith in you affect your faith in yourself. I agree with Rumi who said, “Set your life on fire. Seek those who fan your flames.” We all must have a fire in us to survive and better yet, to thrive. We only live once, so I truly try to make the best of each day. Whatever presents itself is an opportunity to help sell, support, and connect with others. I believe in myself and in my ability to communicate through my words, actions, and follow-through, allowing people to collaborate with me with assurance. I look forward to applying my passion, dedication, and business acumen to my next professional endeavor.

Experience

1. Store Manager

   Red Wing Shoe Co.

   Nov 2025 — Present · US

Education

• University of Wisconsin-Stout

  LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, GENERAL STUDIES AND HUMANITIES

• Chippewa Valley Technical College

  Early Childhood Education and Teaching