Alumni Spotlight: Kim Barks

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Meet Kim Barks, who earned an MBA from Webster in 2022 and currently owns her own business, Complete RV Repair & Body Shop Center.

What enticed you to choose Webster University for your degree?

I chose Webster because I live and run a business in Missouri, AND I love the campus! Unfortunately, while I was enrolled, COVID hit and I didn't get to see much of it. Gratefully, Webster shifted to an absolutely great online program. I work better with more structure rather than worrying about logistics. I basically disciplined myself to study and focus in my home office at work every Sunday, away from home to keep a solid foundation with family and friends. It was a difficult time with everything going on in the economy, but I kept grounded, running the business every day and never closing the doors. We were in the essential business category. I would say during this time, even knowing Webster was about 30 minutes from my house, it was comforting knowing the University stayed confident and gave the best attention to its students during this difficult time.

What stood out about your studies at Webster?

One professor stood out in particular, Robert Bielecki. It was a class like no other. I did not consider it in my line of work, but it played a key role in my business and in today's world.

I rode a bike across Iowa — not a motorcycle — but a bicycle. At the time, I was in school with class projects due. I had to present the week I would be on my ride. I also had a few assignments I had to complete that week. RAGBRAI is a 500-mile bike ride across Iowa at the end of July, which is fastly approaching again! I cannot wait! At the time, Professor Bielecki had the class present a project and I was ready, but it was the afternoon of my bike ride. I had about 70 to 80 miles to ride that day. Mind you, internet service was very low, and electronics in general were not at full capacity. The ride consisted of waking up in your tent at about 6 a.m., getting up, getting dressed and getting on your bike. There are many great small towns along the way, stops alongside the highway, people and food, all dedicated to supporting you on the next mile. There was a meeting town where everyone could get better internet and food with the local businesses, and I tucked into a small library, which was very accommodating with air conditioning, snacks and friendly faces. I presented my project and sent it to the professor, and it was a success!

I will always remember the professor giving me this opportunity and understanding my situation at the time. This is generally my only week away from running the business and school. It was a great memory to cherish, and I am still proud to say I look up to this man as a teacher, friend and mentor. We see each other in the community every once in a while, and that is another reason why I like locally attending Webster in Missouri, my home.

How did your Webster degree help advance you in your career?

It drove me to even want more education. I would love to pursue a doctorate degree someday. After struggling back in my undergrad years ago, I now know how I operate and learn. Education, growth and leading others is only a small percentage of who I am. I have learned myself through studies, and at the time, with the economy struggling, I was thriving with the help and support of Webster. I met so many great people and just felt like it was my third home. Second would be my business, of course, as I focus on customer relationships and building lasting referrals.

What is your favorite part about your job?

The customers! Learning and hearing their stories on the road. Being my own boss is also a plus.

What is something valuable you have learned during your career?

I learn every day. My dad is my rock, and I would say I have learned to handle my emotions and not take things to heart too much because, at the end of the day, we are doing the best we can. Just keep hitting the ball, and you will hit a home run.

What advice would you give to others who are considering Webster University for their degree?

Webster helped me grow as an individual, but it takes commitment, discipline and structure. Apply yourself, get to know the professors and focus on the people, not the subject, and the subject will come alive in your reality.

What has your life journey looked like?

I grew up in St. Charles, Missouri. I live in in the older part of St. Charles. My life journey couldn't be any better. I have had, and still today, the blessing of owning and running a business with my dad. My dad has been in the auto body business for over 52 years, and I have been working alongside him for most of my life, over 20 years. We built an RV repair shop from the ground up, and we are shy of 12 years in the RV industry. My dad is amazing, and he has moved my journey along to further heights than I could ever have imagined. 

What was your first job, and what do you remember most about it?

My first job was loading trucks at UPS. I like the nonstop moving and working nights when everyone's sleeping. I also met a lot of great people.

How do you spend your free time?

Where do I start!? I started running marathons in 2012. I have run 12 Disney marathons, 12 half-marathons and numerous 5Ks, 10Ks, trail runs and tri, and I still run today. When there is a medal, sign me up! I have a medal room, and I also have vision boards where I have hit my target on every one and am still working on my current one. I like to spend time at home with my three dogs, Zu, my baby girl, and two boys, Brownie and Yoshie. I work on my home, garden and love to organize. I like to head to the river and go boating with friends. I love sports. I play sand volleyball during the week, and my real passion is soccer. I play every once in a while if I do not have a run the next week. I spend many hours talking to my dad every day at the business. I love to travel and take my baby girl Zu to Bar K and spend time with her.