2016 Game Changer: Gretchen Van Vlymen

Gretchen Van Vlymen knows something about setting the bar — and using a barre as well.

In her nearly six-year tenure at StratEx, Van Vlymen has looked to improve employee engagement through initiatives like the company’s Culture Club where workers get together once a month to discuss what can be done to improve workplace culture. The 31-year-old has also played a part in creating more than 200 classes for staff to keep up-to-date on employment laws and regulations.

Having that knowledge at their fingertips comes in handy with complex laws such as the Affordable Care Act.

In her spare time, besides being an avid foodie, Van Vlymen said she’s a big fan of the Bar Method, an exercise routine that follows a ballet barre-based workout.

“Gretchen is a true rock star,” said Adam Ochstein, StratEx’s founder and CEO, in his recommendation letter. “She is an instrumental force in mentoring employees, both younger and older, and helping them grow their careers.”

That’s what we call a fantastic Game Changer — bar none.

James Tehrani is Workforce’s managing editor. Follow Tehrani on Twitter at @WorkforceJames and like his blog on Facebook at “Whatever Works” blog.