Karla Van Winkle has built her career around one core idea—people need to take ownership of their growth.

Today, as a Director of Talent Development in Chicago, she is not only leading HR strategy inside organizations, but also sharing her expertise publicly. From industry panels to professional development events, she is increasingly recognized as a subject matter expert in career management and workforce development.

“I’ve learned that your work ethic and your ability to adapt will separate you,” she says. “You can’t wait for someone else to define your path.”

Karla’s perspective comes from experience, not theory.

She grew up in Ferdinand, Indiana, where opportunities were limited. “I knew very early on that I didn’t have access to the same resources as others,” she says. “So I relied on my work ethic.”

Her early years were shaped by responsibility—helping on the family farm, staying active in school, and learning independence at a young age. Those experiences built the foundation for how she approaches both leadership and career development today.