Dawnell K.

Experience

• 

  Aroplax Corporation

  Digital Business Operations Manager

  Dec 2025 - Present

  • Partner with the CEO to design and implement the digital operating infrastructure needed to improve execution, increase organizational visibility, and reduce dependence on informal coordination, spreadsheets, email, and
  • individual memory.
  • Designed and implemented Aroplax’s company-wide ClickUp operational architecture, including department-aligned workspaces, standardized workflows, leadership systems, governance standards, and cross-functional task
  • visibility.
  • Translated an 80+ step manufacturing mold-build schedule into a reusable, dependency-driven ClickUp workflow that generates structured project timelines from a single start date.
  • Developed repeatable onboarding, documentation, and adoption systems to support company-wide ClickUp implementation across Engineering, Finance, HR, IT, Sales, Quality, Operations, and external partners.
  • Designed executive operating workflows for task intake, decision tracking, calendar governance, email-to-ClickUp delegation, reporting, and priority management.
  • Created structured company processes for employee recognition, monthly company updates, IT ticket intake, software access governance, knowledge retention, and administrative succession.
  • Established workflow and AI-governance guardrails to protect system integrity, prevent fragmented implementation, and ensure new processes remain scalable and maintainable.
  • Supported operational continuity during significant organizational change by coordinating across departments, surfacing risks, clarifying ownership, and advancing work requiring limited CEO intervention.

• Life-Balance By Design, LLC

  Creator | The Optimized Veteran™

  Apr 2024 - Present

  • The Optimized Veteran™ supports veterans who have successfully transitioned into civilian life but still feel unsettled, disconnected, or unsure of who they are beyond military service.
  • I create frameworks, reflective tools, and conversations that help veterans better understand the often-overlooked stage between external stability and internal alignment—what I call The Messy Middle.
  • My work explores:
  • Identity after military service
  • Purpose and motivation after stability
  • Grief for past and expected versions of ourselves
  • The tension between who we believe we should be and what we genuinely want
  • Rebuilding a meaningful life beyond rank, role, achievement, and constant forward motion
  • Through writing, research, the Optimized Veteran™ LinkedIn newsletter, and the developing podcast and YouTube platform, I translate complex transition experiences into grounded language and practical reflection.
  • The goal is not to tell veterans who they should become. It is to help them understand what they are experiencing, reconnect with themselves, and make more intentional decisions about what comes next.
• 

  Aroplax Corporation

  Executive Assistant

  Nov 2025 - Jan 2026

  • Provided executive administrative support to the President and CEO while establishing foundational systems for more structured delegation, communication, and execution.
  • Managed complex executive scheduling, meeting coordination, inbox workflows, follow-up, and administrative priorities.
  • Protected CEO focus time by restructuring calendar blocks, identifying conflicts, coordinating schedule changes, and maintaining preparation and transition time.
  • Created standardized processes for calendar requests, task capture, meeting follow-up, inbox triage, and executive communication.
  • Converted requests and meeting outcomes into trackable next actions, reducing dependence on memory and scattered email threads.
  • Identified recurring operational gaps and began proposing more scalable systems for delegation, accountability, and company-wide task management.
  • Supported the initial selection and setup of ClickUp as a centralized platform for executive and organizational execution.
• 

  Mr. Maison Plumbing and Drain

  Operations Consultant

  Aug 2025 - Oct 2025

  Your hometown residential and commercial plumbing solutions and drain maintenance experts.

  • Served as fractional COO and systems strategist during a 30-day engagement to launch a virtual assistant agency.
  • Focused on creating scalable systems, defining clear accountability, and establishing communication and onboarding workflows.
  • Designed and implemented end-to-end Lead Journey and Client Journey processes with templates, automation direction, and documentation.
  • Mapped high-level workflows, drafted client-facing materials, and coordinated responsibilities across sales, admin, and delivery.
  • Created supporting documentation including meeting agendas, weekly recap structures, onboarding checklists, and intake forms in Google Workspace and Keap.
  • Facilitated weekly team meetings, tracked progress with a customizable Target Tracker, and provided leadership coaching.
  • Trained team members on lead and client management strategies to ensure seamless handoff from inquiry to active client.
  • Delivered a fully operational internal and external client journey ready for soft launch with systems, email scripts, and templates.
  • Conducted mock sales calls, refined pitch processes, and guided mindset and leadership adjustments for sustainable growth.
• 

  Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation

  Operations Manager

  Jul 2024 - Jan 2025

  • After serving as the EDC’s Project Manager, I realized the organization needed a higher-level operational approach to support sustainable success.
  • Transitioning into the operations role allows me to leverage my expertise in operations, systems design, and leadership to address foundational inefficiencies and prepare the EDC for long-term growth.
  • Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide strategic oversight, aligning the organization’s processes with its mission and goals.
  • Support entrepreneurial programs like Startup 48 and the Idea Challenge by creating repeatable systems for seamless execution.
  • Lead the migration to WIX, ensuring the website integrates with backend systems for communication and workflows.
  • Reorganize digital assets in SharePoint, Google Drive, and ClickUp, creating standardized workflows, SOPs, and templates.
  • Onboard and train a new project manager, equipping them to lead initiatives with clarity and confidence.
  • Identify and document sustainable processes for team efficiency and project management.
  • Focus Areas:
  • Build onboarding resources to set the new project manager up for success.
  • Centralize and optimize digital systems to reduce inefficiencies.
  • Develop standardized processes for seamless program execution.
  • Restructure operations to align with strategic priorities.
  • Why the Shift?
  • As Project Manager, I observed recurring operational challenges that limited project success, such as disjointed systems and a lack of standardized processes.
  • Stepping into the operations role allows me to address these issues and build a strong operational foundation to support the EDC’s mission and team.
  • Impact:
  • By focusing on operations and team empowerment, I aim to streamline workflows, enhance productivity, and ensure the EDC’s programs run sustainably and effectively, driving greater community impact.
• 

  Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation

  Project Manager

  Jan 2024 - Jul 2024

  • Drove strategic initiatives to foster economic growth, elevate brand representation, and strengthen community engagement.
  • Planned and executed key events including the Annual Luncheon within a six-week timeframe, The Idea Challenge, and Startup 48.
  • Led a digital asset overhaul creating the Annual Report, Investor Prospectus, and other materials to elevate the EDC brand.
  • Redesigned the Economic Profile in Canva, turning complex data, charts, and statistics into an accessible format.
  • Spearheaded programs that transition innovative concepts into viable business ventures supporting local entrepreneurship.
  • Collaborated with hundreds of businesses to foster growth and retention while managing investor and sponsor recruitment.
  • Streamlined operations, produced high-quality digital and physical assets, and strengthened the EDC's regional leadership role.
• 

  Fish Game Kings

  Executive Assistant

  Oct 2023 - Jan 2024

  Skill Based Fish Games that feature Ocean King 3 Plus fish game series, Pandora Technologies Certified Fish Games and many other versions that players love and enjoy the social game experience of multi-player game play. The cabinet features vibrant LED lighting, a large LCD screen with High Definition 3D rendered graphics that brings each ocean themed stage vibrantly to life, and the cabinet itself has been redesigned for a more modern streamlined style.

  • Collaborated closely with Fish Game Kings to revolutionize customer experience and operational efficiency.
  • Conceived, designed, and implemented a customized customer journey from website form submission to active customer.
  • Built a detailed JotForm with over 300 gaming options to capture customer preferences accurately.
  • Worked with the Marketing 360 team to optimize CRM processes and improve customer relations.
  • Cleaned up and organized over 10,000 emails to establish a streamlined communication system.
  • Restructured the company President's schedule to enhance productivity and oversight of operations.
  • Implemented proven productivity techniques and methodologies to foster creativity and innovation across the company.
  • Provided personal support for various tasks to help the President start the new year with an organized system.
  • Contributed to setting Fish Game Kings on a trajectory of success for 2024 through operational and CRM improvements.
• 

  Mr. Maison Plumbing and Drain

  Executive Consultant

  Oct 2023 - Jan 2024

  • Collaborated with Dee Togbah to elevate his plumbing and appliance inspection business through strategic planning.
  • Crafted a comprehensive business proposal tailored for Costco to showcase the company's unique service value.
  • Conceived, designed, and produced over 20 in-home maintenance guides to empower customers between inspections.
  • Developed meticulous Standard Operating Procedures to automate and streamline core business operations.
  • Negotiated a cost-effective contract for a storage unit to protect valuable equipment and reduce costs.
  • Created detailed onboarding processes for prospective employees to ensure consistent training and expectations.
  • Contributed to operational excellence, scalable growth, and enhanced customer satisfaction across the business.
• 

  Otto Family Law SC

  Project Manager

  Apr 2023 - Jun 2023

  Our mission is to reimagine the legal experience for families. We specialize in Family Law, Divorce Mediation, and Estate Planning.

  • Served as Project Manager and Business Strategist supporting Otto Family Law's expansion and franchise development.
  • Spearheaded creation of a comprehensive certification course to teach the firm’s 'Divorce In A Day' approach to others.
  • Designed the certification to equip potential franchisees with Otto Family Law’s proprietary service model and standards.
  • Crafted business strategies and franchisee process plans to support sustainable franchising and scaling.
  • Applied meticulous project management and strategic thinking to strengthen operations and prepare for growth.
  • Positioned the firm for successful expansion while preserving the integrity of its unique service offerings.
• 

  HR-4U INC.

  Leadership Development Program

  Mar 2023 - May 2023

  Mission We empower change-driven companies and their leaders to advocate for and uplift their employees with living wages, worth, and wellbeing. Our Programs Assemble-Grass Roots Advocacy We are a grass roots movement of advocates for putting people first in business to address equitable living wages, food insecurity, housing displacement and other woes that plague our communities. Communicate-Our Efforts to Raise Awareness We use our social media channels to highlight the leadership techniques of those that understand the #ROI of putting people first. Time2CHANGE Podcast We’ve launched our podcast to use the powerful voices of our Partners and Sponsors to communicate how to solve socioeconomic issues that are facing our communities. StandUP4Change Live Events Each month we launch live shows that highlight the incredible work our Partners are doing to help us create actionable change. The PEOPLE Initiative Community Events This program is the heart of our Servant Leadership message. Using the power of social media, 2-3 times per month we gather guest speakers to conduct master classes, seminars, and give advice to the community concerning topics that are affecting us all. Mentor4GOOD When we were starting out there was a virtual cornucopia of people that wanted to sell us help after we received our 501(c)(3) approval from the IRS, but no one that was willing to give guidance on all the startup questions we had. It took months of investigation. We help give real answers to help Nonprofits. Transformation Kitchen™ We are creating a training production kitchen and fast-casual lunch designation within the heart of Hudson Valley, NY, to reskill typically underserved communities. This program addresses building stronger communities, healthy citizens, breaking down food insecurity, helping with re-entry to communities and showing other businesses, especially those within the service industry, how to create financially successful companies.

  • Developed and coordinated The P|E|O|P|L|E Program plan for a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
  • Co-led interdependent projects to support the program’s initial launch and early operations.
  • Collaborated with multiple teams to ensure efficient operations and implementation of process improvements.
  • Drove project initiatives from conception through launch to ensure coordinated execution across stakeholders.
• 

  ForbesWomen

  ForbesWomen Contributor

  Jan 2022 - Jan 2023

  Official page of Forbes, the world’s leading voice for entrepreneurial success and free enterprise.

  • Published articles on business growth strategy and operational clarity for ForbesWomen.
  • Wrote about productivity systems and building sustainable success without burnout.
• 

  Ideal Wellness

  Project Manager

  May 2019 - Jan 2023

  Our mission at Ideal Wellness is to help you achieve your ideal you inside and out. We will provide the highest quality weight loss coaching, nutritional products, and information to help you reach your goals. This is a lifestyle change and we will be with you throughout and after the entire process. Our goal is to help you, your family and the community in long-term wellness.

  • Spearheaded the establishment of a virtual department with manuals, training programs, and streamlined operations.
  • Conceptualized and implemented an accredited certification program plus 12 monthly continuing education courses.
  • Led virtual cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget.
  • Designed operational processes and procedures tailored for a virtual environment to improve efficiency.
  • Supported website modernization and rebranded over 50 WordPress pages for a cohesive online presence.
  • Provided marketing support including messaging, SEO, social media, and graphic design.
• 

  Corporate Fitness Works

  Health Fitness Specialist

  Apr 2018 - Nov 2018

  Corporate Fitness Works develops custom fitness centers with engaging onsite and virtual programs that meet the unique needs of today's working populations.

  • Assisted the Program Manager by compiling reports and analyzing data to meet client expectations.
  • Contributed positively to a welcoming team environment that values respect and process improvement.
  • Engaged professionally with members one-on-one to provide education, support, and ensure safety.
  • Delivered individualized, safe, and effective exercise programs and comprehensive member services.
  • Instructed group exercise classes and ensured class quantity met contractual requirements.
  • Sought internal and external resources and pursued opportunities for professional growth.
  • Demonstrated commitment to professional development through industry involvement and goal achievement.
• 

  Chippewa Valley Free Clinic

  Healthier You Program Trainer

  Feb 2017 - Oct 2017

  At the Chippewa Valley Free Clinic, our mission is to provide health services to and advocacy for the members of our community that have no health care alternative.

  • Led members through progressive healthy-living programs with short- and long-term goal planning and fitness assessments.
  • Conducted equipment orientations and coached members on appropriate fitness programming.
  • Addressed individual fitness goals and recommended suitable programs to support health outcomes.
  • Validated satisfaction through one-on-one training and tailored assessments for wellness objectives.

• FitELITE

  Certified Personal Trainer

  Jan 2017 - Jan 2018

  FitELITE is a company.

  • Provided personalized strength and conditioning coaching as a certified personal trainer.
  • Designed individualized programs to help clients reach fitness and wellness goals sustainably.
• 

  University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

  P.R.I.D.E. Volunteer

  Oct 2015 - Nov 2015

  Explore UW-Eau Claire's majors and minors, discover our campus, and learn about life as a Blugold.

  • Volunteered with P.R.I.D.E. to provide community-based physical activity for children with disabilities ages 5–16.
  • Worked one-on-one with children to assist participation in planned physical activities.
  • Saw children enjoy activities free of typical expectations and supported them in being themselves.
  • Worked weekly with different participants to build confidence and independence—an extremely rewarding role.
• 

  Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin

  Community Volunteer

  Aug 2015 - Aug 2015

  The mission of the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (DSAW) is to provide support to Wisconsin families and individuals with Down syndrome through awareness, education, information, programs, services, and the exchange of ideas and experiences.

  • Helped children build confidence and independence through bike-riding activities.
  • Worked one-on-one with a personal buddy, Ethan, and supported measurable progress and enjoyment.
• 

  YMCA of the Chippewa Valley

  Group Fitness Instructor

  Apr 2015 - Oct 2017

  The YMCA of the Chippewa Valley is a community-centered association dedicated to building a healthy Spirit, Mind and Body for all in an environment where Christian values are promoted to all people, while maintaining an emphasis on youth.

  • Designed multiple group fitness programs including exercise selection, order, music, and motivational concepts.
  • Created class plans for TRX, Water Aerobics, Foam Rolling, Quick Fit, and Women on Weights.
  • Tailored programming to deliver engaging, safe, and results-driven group exercise experiences.
• 

  YMCA of the USA

  Personal Trainer

  Apr 2015 - Oct 2017

  YMCA is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening individuals and communities across the country. Learn how you can get involved, donate and advocate.

  • Evaluated clients and documented fitness goals using Functional Movement System, BMI, and written goal plans.
  • Developed individualized exercise programs and facilitated personal training sessions.
  • Generated strategic ideas to help trainers obtain building access and business cards.
  • Enabled clients to reach new weight goals through fun, healthy, and sustainable approaches.
• 

  Special Olympics Wisconsin

  Community Volunteer

  Feb 2015 - Jan 2020

  Special Olympics Wisconsin (SOWI) provides year-round sports opportunities to more than 10,000 athletes, of any age and skill level, across the state. With training and competitions in 18 Olympic-style sports our athletes push hard and play harder. They strive to beat their personal bests, defying the odds again and again. From swimming to snowboarding, from the local ball fields to the shining stage of the World Games, our athletes showcase the talents and triumphs of people with intellectual disabilities.

  • Encouraged special children to pursue their dreams through sports and recreation.
  • Promoted inclusion and confidence-building through athletic opportunities.