I Belong: Meet Aimee

Jan 18, 20232 min read

Meet Aimee | Sr. Associate Relations Case Manager

As we turn to the next chapter of 2023, it’s caused me to reflect on all the wonderful moments I have had during my tenure at PetSmart. My PetSmart story started almost 15 years ago. I had no idea that the next 13 years with the team in Woodstock, GA (Store #1029) would be the highlight of my professional journey up to that point or that I would have the opportunity to work with the best people. Not only did they make me feel like I belonged, but I truly felt like the luckiest leader in retail.

While in the North Georgia District, I was fortunate to be able to support the district from an HR standpoint, act as the trainer, and support new store openings. In 2021, I had the opportunity to transition out of the field and join the OneHR team.

PetSmart has allowed me to stretch myself personally and professionally, including supporting my return to school. The company encouraged my work-life balance so I could go to school, and they generously provided tuition assistance each year for both of my degrees. Amid going back to school, I married the love of my life. My wife and I have been together for 24 years, and 17 years into our relationship, the best part of my life began – our boys. Our first son is six, and our second son is three. (My boys are hopefully my shot at having a child who plays in the NBA – I’m a huge basketball fan). My youngest son is neurodivergent and has taught me to see the world differently. Last year when the new AVID Associate Resource Group (ARG) was established, I met colleagues I had previously never met – they have been a great source of support and advice for me as I raise my son.

In 2022, I had the opportunity to move to Arizona and work at the Phoenix Home Office. Nearly 2,000 miles, it was a big move to the desert. My family could not have been more supportive, and PetSmart was with us every step of the way.

When I joined PetSmart, I lived on the East Coast, wasn’t married, didn’t have children, and hadn’t completed any higher education. The change in my life is inextricably linked to PetSmart, and the support has never wavered. I can be who I am, and my sense of knowing I belong is rooted in accepting a diverse and unique workforce.

The Belonging Program’s “I Belong” Series harnesses the power of empathy through storytelling. This series is intended to give associates a greater sense of understanding, a bridge to gain new perspective, and a way to build connection to each other.