Karen Wolfe

“My favorite part about Women’s Network is that I learn something and meet someone new at every luncheon. I always leave every event with a positive outlook!”

Title: Interior Designer/Selections Coordinator

I work to understand what the client’s wants, needs, and desires are then transform that into a functional and beautiful design while still meeting budget needs.  I assist clients in making selections, assist in the estimating process, and work with production in managing the selection information throughout the building process.

Workplace/Employer: Kliethermes Homes and Remodeling, Inc.

Hometown: I grew up in Eastern Independence, MO and graduated from Fort Osage High School. However, I have lived in Pilot Grove, MO for over 16 years, so I consider it to now be my hometown!

First Job: I started working when I was 15 ½ years old, at a little restaurant in Blue Springs, MO called Texas Tom’s.  I did various jobs from waiting tables, to cooking in the kitchen just because I thought it would be fun!  I also worked at a western store, then The Home Depot throughout high school and college. I had a part time job all throughout high school and college. That responsibility during those times instilled a great work ethic.

How long have you been in Columbia:  I moved to Columbia as a transfer student to the University of Missouri, Columbia in 1999.  I didn’t know even one person in this town.  I have either lived and/or worked in Columbia ever since and have met many great people!

College/degree(s): I graduated in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design with an emphasis in Interior Design. Accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (formerly FIDER) I am so proud to be a MU Alumni!

Why did you decide to go into this field:  I remember not leaving my house to go play when I was little until I watched “Home With Lynette Jennings”. I was always re-arranging furniture in my home as a teenager. I even lettered in Art in High School.  After a few detours along the way I decided I needed to do something that expressed my personality and creativity. I chose Interior Design. I transferred to MU because it was one of two accredited design programs in Missouri.  I started working for Dave Griggs Flooring America while still in college and stayed with the company for 13 years. Dave Griggs and Michele Batye were great mentors to have along the way! I left because of a life change; I had a two year old and newborn twins at home! When I decided to go back to work after staying home with our kids for a few years, I only called Dan and Cale Kliethermes. I have always admired the process of Kliethermes Homes Remodeling, and wanted to be involved in more aspects of a project than flooring. I had worked with the Kliethermes team as a supplier for many years so it was an easy transition to become an employee. I truly enjoy my career path and the company that I work for!

Three words people use to describe you:  outgoing, enthusiastic, optimistic

Awards/Recognitions:  Azek Building Products University, Delta Faucet Training, The Monogram Experience, MCA Top Hand 2016, Sandler Sales Training, DISC profile training, Certified builder professional with Flooring America, Featured Designer in advertorials for various Columbia magazines, Featured designer for the 2010 Dream Green Home-Lake of the Ozarks, Consultant and flooring sales person for the 2011 Inspiration Home-Columbia.

Things that occupy your free time: I am currently serving my second two year elected term on the Board of Alderman  for the City of Pilot Grove, MO, board member for Missouri Cattlewomen’s Association, member of Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, Cooper County Cattlemen’s Association, Committee member for HBA Home Show, Chair for annual church breakfast and active in many parish functions, Secretary for St. Joseph Home and School Association, Committee member of the Steam Engine Show meal fundraiser for St. Joseph Home and School Association.  Other than that I have three small kids so I help with their activities as well!  My husband and I are both very active with our volunteer roles and you can generally find our daughters right beside us helping.  We lead by example! Those are just the highlights!

Husband/children/furry friends:  My husband, David is an area Sales Manager for MFA-Inc. We met in college and he is what led me to Pilot Grove. We have three amazing daughters; Audrey is seven, and our identical twins, Emma and Willa, are five. Yes, our house is busy! We have some cattle too!

Fun facts (hobbies, talents, etc.):  I spent summer school in college getting my first two U.S. sailing certifications and studied yacht design on a 40’ Beneteau sailboat, I have hiked up Pike’s Peak, we love to take family ATV rides on our Polaris Ranger, we enjoy camping and float trips with our friends, I am always working on some sort of project in my house, I love to travel and have a goal to visit all 50 states. I am well over half way there!

Currently reading:  Great works of literature such as Pinkalicious, Amelia Bedelia, Junie B. Jones, Dr. Seuss, Pete the Cat, and Charlie the Ranch Dog! Remember, I have three small girls that are all learning to read!

Currently watching:  Full House re-runs, and Fuller House. My girls love that show as much as I did growing up!  Go Team DJ Tanner, TGIF!

Currently listening to (or favorite song):  The Beach Boys – “Surfin USA” because it is what my girls danced to for the school talent show! We have been practicing for weeks! I am a fan of many different types of music. I listen most too classic country, a bit of classic rock, and some 90’s alternative, along with Jimmy Buffett, and reggae.  You really never know what I may be listening to!

Place you want to visit:  The North Eastern part of the U.S. Those states are on my list to visit still!

Goal for 2018:  To receive my AKBD certification (Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer) from the National Kitchen and Bath Association.

Favorite quote:  “Those who get ahead are not the people who complain or play victim, but the ones who work hard to solve problems, serve people, and contribute to our world in a positive way. “  Author – unknown Interior Designer/Selections Coordinator

Works for
Kliethermes Homes & Remodeling, Inc.
Job Title:
Interior Designer & Selection Coordinator
Email:
karen@kliethermes.com
Website:
http://www.kliethermes.com
Phone:
(573) 446-2222
Address:
1902 Corona Rd
Ste 200
Columbia, Missouri 65203-5926
Member Since:
February 28th, 2017

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