Get to Know Emily Lang – Our Human Resource and Finance at Houck Transit Advertising

Q: Share a bit about your education and career experiences:

A: I got my degree from North Dakota State University (NDSU). I started my career in purchasing for a fast-food restaurant furniture manufacturer and then for a printing company, both in Indiana. After a few years at the printing company, I was asked to take over their HR department and was responsible for safety training as well. Then I moved to Minnesota and was the HR manager & safety trainer for a collating equipment manufacturer. That company sold so I did independent HR consulting and stayed home with my kids. I came back into the workforce as an office manager for a small equipment manufacturer and spent most of my time in accounting and managing inventory. Once they closed their US division, I took a job at a supply warehouse. I did every job except direct sales, such as accounting, marketing, customer service, purchasing, warehouse management, and shipping and receiving. That is where my story starts at Houck Transit Advertising.

Q: Tell us a little about your family:

A: My husband and I met at NDSU and just celebrated our 30th anniversary. We have two grown children. One lives in Louisville, KY, and is a Human Resources Generalist. The other is attending our alma mater, NDSU, studying Electrical Engineering.

Q: Tell us about the work you do at HTA:

A: I try to do as many different things as possible. My biggest project right now is facilitating the launch of a new software system. On the HR side of things, I take care of payroll, benefits, recruiting, supporting employees, listening, providing advice, and planning activities. On the accounting side, I manage monthly Transit reporting and payments, prepare, organize, and submit data for audits, prepare and file monthly sales tax returns, analyze data, and back up A/R & A/P. As part of the leadership team, I contribute to the strategic planning and company goals. I also help with minor building maintenance.

Q: What are your interests outside of work?

A: I enjoy DIY projects that involve sewing, using my Cricut, upcycling/refinishing wood furniture or building with wood. I also enjoy volunteering, curling, NASCAR, reading, strategic board games, boating, and traveling.

Q: What have you found to be your favorite experience at Houck Transit Advertising so far?

A: My day-to-day love is the autonomy and working with so many fantastic and smart people. My favorite experience would have to be when we all get together in person for a company-wide event. I enjoy the planning, the team-building activities and the time spent with one another.