Danie H. / RR053
Name: Danielle H. (I go by Danie)
Year Started at R.Riveter: 2016
Position: Remote Leather Riveter
Current Base: Fort Leavenworth, KS
First, tell us a little bit about yourself.
My husband and I met in college; we attended Truman State University in northeast Missouri. I studied history in college and received a masters in Museum Professions. I went to grad school at Seton Hall University in New Jersey. Go Pirates! I work full-time as a Museum Educator at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum running school field trips. I have a puppy, Mabel, she's a mutt and a really cute one. She's my best pal and worst enemy, sweet snuggles and stolen steaks. I am originally from St. Louis and am a big St. Louis Cardinals fan. I like to cross-stitch and make wreaths. I have a bit of a nail polish obsession. I probably have 40+ colors in my nail bag. I love a good themed party and any excuse to wear a costume. I like to travel and experience new things especially new foods and new duty stations!
Why did you join R.Riveter?
I joined R. Riveter because I had been looking for jobs for about six months before I landed a part-time job when we were stationed in Arizona. Five months later I was job searching again and got another part-time job. I had been following the R. Riveter story for a couple years and met Laura and Cameron at a Barn Sale in Clarksville. Seeing the bags in person and meeting these women lead me to apply. And I'm so happy I did!
Describe a typical day in your work life:
Surrounded by leather and mallets, pounding my number into butter smooth leather after cutting out hides. I have hides all over my house!
How has being a military spouse affected your journey and your career?
Being a military spouse has greatly affected my journey and career. In the first year my husband and I were married I spent six months applying for jobs. Each time we move, I start from square one in my career. I dislike the negative aspect of starting from zero every couple years, but being a military spouse also gives me an advantage. It has helped me network and develop relationships in many different cities giving me career connections across the country. The struggles and challenges I have faced as a military spouse better prepare me for what I face in my work.
What is your typical coffee order?
Caramel Macchiato
What is your prefered work jam?
Audiobooks or Hamilton soundtrack
How has R.Riveter affected your life?
R.Riveter has given me a piece of myself that I did not know existed. It has given me a chance to create. It has given me the opportunity to work with my hands. It has provided a connection between me and other women across the country. It has provided a connection between me and the women throughout history who served their country in numerous ways. R.Riveter has instilled in me a sense of empowerment and pride.
What do you love most about what you do?
I love working with my hands. I love starting with a large hide and cutting, stamping, dying it until it becomes a piece that will be included in something bigger. It is very rewarding to see the pieces go from a blank canvas to one part of an incredible product.
What is one of your most proud moments at R.Riveter?
I am most proud when I see my friends and family carrying the bags with parts I have constructed. Seeing their pride in the handbags makes it even more special.
Favorite part about working at R.Riveter?
My favorite part about working at R. Riveter is the community! I have new friends that I never would have met without this company.
Favorite R.Riveter handbag? Otto, it's sleek and stylish, but also large enough to hold everything including my planner, high heels, and even my lunch sometimes.
Favorite R.Riveter Marketplace item?
Charliemadison Originals Bracelets
Have any advice you would give your younger self?
Keep working hard, don’t give up.
Fun Fact about yourself?
I know how to Irish Dance. I learned from Irish nuns at my Catholic grade school.
