Not long after the final bell rang on the 2021-22 school year, Cameron Axtmann began writing the next chapter in her career. Then a high school English teacher, she was eager for a change of pace—a new space where she could put her gifts to use and continue making an impact on the world around her.

So goes the story of how Cameron found herself in talks with leadership at Paulsen about the Creative Services Manager position.

On paper, the role seemed tailor-made. It played to strengths she had honed in the classroom and, perhaps more importantly, allowed her to collaborate with coworkers on a daily basis.

Despite daily interaction with students, parents and colleagues, teaching can nevertheless feel like an isolating endeavor. Working at Paulsen offered a real contrast to that paradigm.

“I like working with people,” said Cameron. “Something I enjoy a lot right now is being able to work with a team. Everyone has a job. Everyone is on board with their responsibilities, and we’re able to see clear outcomes.”

So far, those outcomes have exceeded expectations.

“The Creative Services Manager is a linchpin for so many processes at Paulsen,” said Paulsen President and CEO Marcus Squier. “Cameron has done an excellent job getting up to speed on the ins and outs of her new role, building relationships with our team and ensuring we’re going above and beyond for our clients. We’re thrilled to have her on the team.”

Cameron earned a bachelor of science in communication studies from South Dakota State University, where she nurtured her love for writing and literature. She ultimately decided to pursue secondary education post-graduation, landing a job at Tea Area High School, where she taught English and creative writing for two years.

Even after transitioning out of the classroom, Cameron remains connected to education. She is mentoring one of her former students who is currently writing a novel and has a standing volunteer commitment to the Miss South Dakota scholarship program.

In her free time, Cameron enjoys listening to podcasts, spending time with friends and cozying up with her dog and a good book in hand.