Kerry Gifford
Senior Data Analyst
Mahomet, Illinois
Kerry Gifford, from Mahomet, Illinois, graduated from Mahomet-Seymour High School, where he was active in the golf and cross-country teams. His passion for sports was more than just a pastime; it became a foundation for learning leadership and resilience. Many of his high school days were spent practicing and refining his golf skills at The Lake of the Woods Golf Course, an experience that left a lasting impact on his approach to challenges both on and off the course.
In 1986, Kerry enrolled at Parkland College and later transferred to Illinois State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 1990. His professional journey began at Fisher National Bank of Mahomet, where he started as a teller. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and a keen understanding of finance, he quickly advanced to the role of loan officer by 1994. During these years, he continued to nurture his love for golf and found himself regularly participating in tournaments. It was at one of these competitions that he met a mentor who would influence the next chapter of his career.
Thanks to his mentor’s guidance, Kerry transitioned into a new field, joining Culligan of Champaign as a field service technician specializing in water filtration systems. With a dedication to mastering his craft, he secured his plumbing license from the Illinois Department of Public Health, gaining the technical expertise needed to excel in his new role. His commitment to continuous improvement didn’t stop there. In 2010, he returned to academia to expand his skill set and keep pace with industry advancements. Balancing full-time work with rigorous coursework, Kerry earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from Millikin University in 2014, primarily through online classes.
By 2016, Kerry had risen to the role of Senior Analyst, a position that leveraged his analytical skills and deep understanding of business operations. In this role, he conducts comprehensive analyses of customer data, sales trends, service metrics, and operational performance to uncover patterns and inform strategic decisions. His work has had a lasting impact on improving business efficiency and enhancing service delivery.
Outside of work, Kerry is deeply committed to giving back. He enjoys golfing, hiking, and spending quality time with his family. His dedication to mentoring young entrepreneurs and supporting business owners has been a significant part of his life. As a proud member of SCORE Decatur, he volunteers his time and knowledge to help others succeed. His altruism extends to donating business and self-help books to prisons, where he aims to inspire and provide resources for personal development. Kerry firmly believes in the power of education and mentorship to transform lives and create lasting impact.