MC Spotlight: Ashley Kratz

Ashley Kratz graduated in 2004 from the University of Louisville with a bachelor’s degree in communications. Kratz credits the UPS and Metropolitan Program for being instrumental in her career success.

Kratz has over 20 years of recruitment experience from a variety of employers including UPS, Jewish Hospital, and Papa John's International.

Today, Kratz is the Lead Staffing Specialist for LG&E and KU Energy where she is responsible for all corporate and leadership recruiting for the company. Kratz leads all recruiting technology initiatives for the company and regularly serves as the company representative at college and community career events. Additionally, Kratz is a Certified Talent Acquisition Strategist and sits on the Board of Directors for the Fund for the Arts NeXtGen Board.

“The Metropolitan College program one of the most challenging things I've ever done, but it was the best thing I could have ever done for myself professionally,” said Kratz.

Learn more about Ashley Kratz’s Metropolitan College experience in this Q&A.

Q: Why did you decide to participate in the Metropolitan College program?

I was responsible for paying my own tuition and I didn't want to have huge student loans to have to pay back after graduation. I also was living on my own and needed a stable job with growth opportunities. The Metropolitan College program was the perfect fit.

Q: What impact did the Metropolitan College program have on your education and career?

Knowing that my tuition was paid for, this motivated me to stay in college and finish my degree. About one year after working as a package handler, I was able to transition into a role within the actual Metropolitan College program as a Metro College Mentor. In this role, I was responsible for recruiting UPS employees into the program, keeping current student employees informed and providing them support, and I spoke with various leaders throughout the company. This experience helped me realize my career goal of being a recruiter and it was instrumental in developing my communication and leadership skill set.

Q: What advice do you have for current and prospective Metropolitan College students?

Stick with it! It took me five years to obtain my degree which meant I worked 3rd shift for five years while attending school during the day. It was one of the most challenging things I've ever done, but it was the best thing I could have ever done for myself professionally. As a recruiter, I know that hiring managers give special consideration to Metro College grads due to the dynamic work ethic they have developed by being in the program.

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We are proud of our current students and alumni and their incredible accomplishments! The MC Spotlight is a way for us to highlight the amazing things our current students and alumni are doing. As you read their stories, you will learn how their Metropolitan College experiences helped to shape their futures and influence their careers.

We are always on the lookout for inspiring MC Spotlight stories. If you or someone you know is interested in sharing a story with us, contact us at askmetro@kctcs.edu.

Note: At Metropolitan College, we consider our alumni anyone who has ever completed coursework and received tuition benefits with us.