Lourdes Cerpa, GSF’s Irvine, California-based Human Resources Generalist for the corporate office, began her career at the company 30 years ago. She joined as an accounts payable clerk in 1994, earning promotions to senior payroll clerk and background specialist before transitioning into her current role in Human Resources (HR). Lourdes embraced GSF's growth opportunities, including the Education Reimbursement Program, adapting and evolving her career over the years. She credits her success to a team-player attitude and a deep connection with the company’s Creed and Values, which she holds at the heart of her work.
In her day-to-day responsibilities, Lourdes makes key people-related decisions and engages in every aspect of the associate life cycle, including onboarding, offboarding, and managing leaves of absence for all corporate associates. While GSF shaped her professional journey, Lourdes believes she “finally found [her] home at GSF” upon moving into the HR department.
“Joining the HR team brought me a lot of joy,” she said. “The daily engagement with my business partners, from whom I’ve learned and grown so much, has enriched my experience. They serve as my teachers and my mentors.”
Lourdes describes her career as a “beautiful journey.” When reflecting on this milestone anniversary, she highlights how her tenure reflects the company’s success, stability, and culture, which “treats people how they want to get treated” and fosters a caring, family-like atmosphere.
GSF’s care for associates extends to their families, something Lourdes greatly appreciates. A few years ago, when her family faced a serious health challenge, former GSF Chairman and CEO Mark Wetterau helped her connect with the right doctors, expediting the process and ultimately saving her husband’s life. Lourdes calls this experience a blessing and a true testament to the support GSF extends beyond the workplace.
As an HR generalist, Lourdes takes pride in focusing on people, the part of the job she enjoys most. She encourages those interested in HR to “stay gracious, collaborate across departments when others need your help, [and] always do your best.”
GSF congratulates Lourdes on her 30-year milestone with gratitude for her numerous contributions and long-term dedication over the years!
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