Kathleen McNary
Director of Corporate & Member Relations
Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
Seven months into the global pandemic, we decided to catch up with the winner of the 2020 CBAD Awards for Workplace MVP, Danae Kasarjian. Danae is the office manager at Calsense, a company that develops custom irrigation solutions for the government industry, and an active member of the Carlsbad Young Professionals.
What was your reaction when you heard you had won the Workplace MVP CBAD Awards?
Honestly, I was shocked. I was sitting at my desk eating a pint of Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream when they announced my name. I heard two of my coworkers scream from their offices and I was just like “Wait, what?”. It was such an honor to receive the Award, especially going up against someone so accomplished and distinguished.
Since your nomination and the awards show, so much has happened. How have you adapted during these past months to keep your company going?
I think the number one thing was trying to keep the culture going. With most of our workforce shifting to WFH life, it made keeping the culture alive hard. We started having themed Friday Quarantini’s, where everyone in the company joins, has a drink, and unwinds after the week while discussing topics or dressing up. I think keeping that connection is very important during this time. For some, it is the highlight of their week.
Personally, are there any particular skills that you have acquired to thrive during this time?
Cooking! I don’t like going to the grocery store, so I started ordering an organic produce box from my local Acai Bowl shop, Juice Wave. I get different items each week, so it has been super fun to experiment with the different produce.
What do you like the most about working at Calsense?
The people. I am surrounded by so many amazing people who inspire me daily to be better. I am constantly learning and growing and working with a team of people who have a common goal of helping to save the environment.
What recommendations do you have for people who are in your same position so they can succeed during this time?
Be easy on yourself. Do the best you can every day. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Never stop growing. Make sure to have fun and laugh daily. Always treat people the way you would like to be treated.