A Path of Perseverance and Purpose: Jackie Henderson’s Job Search Success Story

Meet Jackie Henderson, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, a human resources director with Walsh Trucking. In this job search success story, Jackie shares the power of perseverance, continuous learning, and a strong support network in building a thriving career.

What do you do for a career? 

I am the HR Director for Walsh Trucking, a 65+ year-old family-owned and operated trucking company. Walsh is the largest transporter of wood residuals and solid waste in the PNW. We have 500 employees across eight locations.

What do you like best about your career? 

I love everything about people — the good, the bad, and the ugly. I love helping them achieve their goals. I’ve been in HR since 1998 when I started as a recruiter at a temporary staffing agency. After doing that for a couple of years, I decided I wanted to put my time and talent to work for an employer where I could focus all my energy and efforts. 

A large open-die forging company in the Midwest took a chance on me and hired me as their HR Manager. That role opened so many doors for me. The more I learned about HR, the more I wanted to know. 

I got my professional certification, returned to school to complete my degree, became involved with my local SHRM chapter, and eventually became the chapter president. It was then I realized the value of networking. I later became a director on the state SHRM board. 

In 2008, I was promoted and transferred with my employer and moved to Oregon, where I have been ever since. I have progressively moved up into higher-level roles but have always been selective about where to go next so that the learning never stops.

What resources ​have helped you in your career and your job searches? Are there specific tools or tactics that have contributed to your success? 

I can’t stress enough the value of networking. I have gotten opportunities I never would have known about if it were not for the vast network (my tribe, if you will) of people who know me and believe in me. Also, having strong mentors, either formal or informal, is invaluable. 

Throughout your career, what obstacles have you encountered when doing a job search, and how did you overcome them? 

Shortly after Christmas 2023, I was laid off unexpectedly from my job. The timing couldn’t have been worse, and no one was hiring because it was the end of the year. I tried not to become discouraged, again tapping into my network for advice and support. Even though no one was hiring yet, I knew it was only a matter of time. I scheduled my days in a structured manner, treating unemployment like a full-time job. 

I worked on my resume, read, brushed up on recent legislative happenings, networked on LinkedIn, and talked to every recruiter I could. And yes, I tried to enjoy my family.  It all paid off, and I found a wonderful place to land, starting my new job as Director of Human Resources at Walsh Trucking in March!

What piece of advice would you give to job seekers or professionals trying to advance in their careers? 

First, decide what you want. What does it look like? What pieces are you missing? Then, fill in the blanks. Make a list. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and who you can tap into for advice, support, and ideas. 

Get that degree or that certification – whatever is holding you back, just do it. I promise you it can and will happen if you are willing to put in the work. Looking back on my 26-year career, I am proud of everything, even the mistakes, because they all made me who I am. Feel free to reach out to me as a resource. 

Everyone’s job search story is different, but each individual story can inspire and empower others who are on their own unique path. We love to hear how our readers have found rewarding careers in Portland, and we want to share these stories with you to inspire you in your job search and to help us all better understand the local job market.