BigTime is dedicated to making sure our customers have the best product, and without our team that would not be possible. In this blog series, we’re highlighting our employees and shining more light on them, both professionally and personally.
In honor of Veteran’s Day this month, we are highlighting Cyann Chapuseaux who was a member of the Air Force and now works on our implementation team. Keep reading to see how her years in the military helped shape her into the incredible woman and employee she is today.
What motivated you to join the military?
My family greatly influenced my decision to join the military because I saw how well it set them up, especially with their education. Specifically, my older brother, who I’ve always looked up to joined the Air Force right after high school, and my uncles all served in the Navy. When I was graduating high school and deciding whether to go to college or not, I looked at how great my brother’s life was and that helped me make the decision that the military was also the life I wanted.
Tell us a bit about your experience in the military.
Prior to joining the military, you take a test called the ASVAB which helps place you in a specific branch. I excelled at that test and was able to choose the Air Force, which I was in for four years. I knew the military was a great stepping stone for me but I didn’t want to be a ‘lifer’, which is why I decided to serve for four years.
I ended up on the corporate side of the Air Force, so I was out in the field a bit but mostly worked in the office. I wore a lot of hats in the Military, but one of the most meaningful things I did was lead the mortuary team. I would plan and coordinate funeral services for active duty and retired service members. It was life-changing to help their family members during such a difficult time. I was in that role for around two years and was extremely honored to be selected because very few people on base are qualified to do that.
What was the most rewarding part of your service experience?
Definitely the friends I made. It’s hard because they are stationed all over the world, but on the rare occasions I do see them, it’s like no time has passed at all. There is a really special bond that’s formed because you go through something together that no one else can really relate to.
Tell us about your post-military job-seeking experience and how you eventually chose BigTime.
The military does a great job of helping you transition out. After leaving the military, I had an associate’s degree in human resources so I knew there were a few different avenues I could take with that degree.
My first job out of the military was a receptionist role for a small company in Denver, which I loved. However, I was moving to Phoenix so I needed to find a remote job. That was when I first started working in SaSS and what led me to my current job at BigTime.
How have the skills you learned in the military helped you to succeed in your current role?
I’ve learned how to be detail-oriented, punctual, flexible, and keep a positive attitude, regardless of what’s going on. I’m so appreciative of the work-life balance I have here at BigTime. In the military, I would work 14-hour days, 6 days a week most of the time. Now working 8-hour days gives me so much extra personal time that I never take for granted.
What does your current role at BigTime entail?
As an implementation specialist, I onboard new BigTime customers and assist them with getting their workflows configured in our system. I meet with a lot of customers throughout the day and get to know them over the course of our implementation process.
How do you motivate yourself when you’re at work?
I’m so motivated by giving our customers the best experience I can. It goes back to my work in Mortuary Affairs and the compassion I developed there. For me, it’s more than helping a customer, I understand that it’s not just the person I’m working with, but their entire staff and company. I’m motivated to help them because if I was in their position, I would want that same level of care.
Which accomplishments are you most proud of at work?
Transitioning over to implementation from support is something I’m really proud of because I really immersed myself in the software so I could grow professionally. I’m also proud of the culture in the Phoenix office and the camaraderie we all have out here. We welcome new hires in and ensure they have someone to lean on if they need it.
What is the best advice you have for someone just starting out their career at BigTime?
Use your resources and ask for help when you need it. There is not a single person at BigTime who is unwilling to help!
Tell us a little bit about your life outside of the office.
Being a yoga instructor is very important to me. I was fortunate to discover a new gym, the largest movement space in Arizona, as it was being built. Being part of its growth from the beginning, like wearing a hard hat, has been incredibly rewarding. I also appreciate that my time and individuality are highly valued here.
Can you share some things others don’t know about you?
I’m actually named after a comic book character! My dad has 3 brothers and they are all super into comics, specifically “Spawn” which has a character named Cyan. When I was born (on Veteran’s Day!), my dad wanted to name me after the character because he really related to her story. Luckily, my mom is an artist and loves the color Cyan.
Cyann’s dedication to her work shines through in every task she tackles, and her military skills are a valuable guide. Thank you, Cyann and all our veterans, for your service to our country. We’re proud to have you on the BigTime team!
Looking to join our team? Check out our open roles!
