Investing in employee growth is essential to fostering a sustainable and thriving company culture. With this in mind, AR Franchising, Inc. CEO Don Whetro designed the CATALYST program to help employees enhance their leadership skills and achieve their professional aspirations.
Now in its third year, CATALYST identifies and develops top talent within the organization, guiding participants toward long-term career success. This program continues to nurture promising talent, drive professional growth, and shape the future of AR Franchising, Inc.
This exclusive 10-month initiative emphasizes both personal and professional development. Participants gain critical leadership insights, equipping them to advance their careers and contribute meaningfully to the company’s success.
Over the course of the program, participants focus on the following key elements:
Leadership Essentials
This year’s cohort explored 12 Habits of Valuable Employees by Vincent K. Wright, a book that highlights essential habits for career success. These include fostering accountability, embracing adaptability, and building strong professional relationships. Wright’s insights encourage employees to take initiative, collaborate effectively, and adopt a results-driven mindset that benefits both individuals and organizations.
Mentorship
Participants engaged closely with members of the executive leadership team, building meaningful professional relationships and gaining valuable insights from their experiences. This mentorship fosters a deeper understanding of effective leadership, and the strategies required to excel in dynamic business environments.
Philanthropic Project
The 2024 CATALYST group supported two impactful causes: Avery’s Angels (The Global Gastroschisis Foundation) and the National Alliance to End Homelessness. Through fundraising and awareness initiatives, participants demonstrated a strong commitment to making a difference in their communities, showcasing the importance of giving back beyond the workplace.
Hack-a-Thon
The program culminates in a dynamic Hack-a-Thon, where participants tackle a real-world business challenge. Working collaboratively, the team researches the issue, develops an innovative solution, and presents their proposal to the executive leadership team. This event allows participants to apply their leadership skills, creativity, and growth mindset in a tangible way, showcasing their readiness to address complex challenges and drive organizational success.
AR Franchising, Inc. is committed to cultivating the next generation of leaders. By fostering a supportive and growth-oriented workplace culture, we not only drive long-term success but also honor our legacy and core values.
Kelli Chickos, Vice President of People Operations, reflects on this year’s program: “Over the past 10 months, our CATALYST participants have demonstrated incredible dedication, growth, collaboration, and a passion for innovation. It’s inspiring to see how they’re shaping the future of our organization.”
Meet the graduates of our 2024 CATALYST program:
Morgan Smyth
Creative Brand Manager
Morgan has been with AR Franchising, Inc. for five years, leading brand strategy through her expertise in graphic design. Her passion for graphic design was sparked in childhood when her family moved from Nashville, TN, to Sofia, Bulgaria, where visual communication became essential. After earning a BFA in Graphic Design from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 2016, she developed a decade-long career in graphic and web design. Outside of work, Morgan enjoys hiking, traveling, and crafting with her family in Tampa, FL.
Greg Metts
CADD/BIM Designer
Greg joined AR Franchising, Inc. over three years ago, bringing a background in architectural design and business management. He holds an associate’s degree in architectural technology and a bachelor’s in business management from East Carolina University. Originally from Comfort, NC, Greg now resides in Raleigh, NC. He enjoys golfing, snowboarding, attending sporting events, and exploring new places whenever he can.
Kelly Fowler
PFP Coordinator
With over 24 years of experience in architectural drafting, Kelly has been with AR Franchising, Inc. since 2013. She earned an AS in Architectural Engineering Technology and has worked in various drafting roles, including mechanical, civil, and architectural design. Originally from Detroit, MI, she has lived in Charlotte, NC, for 19 years. Kelly enjoys home improvement projects, traveling, painting, and spending time near the water.
Carolina Giovannetti
Associate Designer
Carolina has been part of the AR Franchising, Inc. team for seven and a half years as an Interior Designer Assistant in the Model Home Department. She holds degrees in Interior Design and Computer Engineering from California universities. Originally from Philadelphia, she spent her early years in Venezuela before returning to the U.S. for a design career. Now based in Clearwater, FL, she enjoys traveling, gardening, home decorating, and salsa dancing with family and friends.
