Change is a constant for Kristin Hoch — and that’s overall a good thing, says the deposit services supervisor, who’s gotten promoted since we last checked in with her, seen a family member become a colleague, and added a pup to the mix at home.

The traditional 30th anniversary gift is a pearl — a symbol of wisdom gained through experience. Kristin — pictured here with son Vincent and daughter Jade — shares this pearl of wisdom: “Stop waiting for the right moment and do it now — whatever it is! You may think you’re not ready, but that perfect moment will never come. I have been practicing this the last few years in all areas of my life, big and small. There will be no more missing out for me if I can help it. Life is too short!”

“Kristin is a treasure and so fun to work alongside,” says her boss, deposit services manager Natalie Canadeo. “We are complete opposites, but are always on the same page. Kristin has an accounting mind and a vast amount of branch knowledge — we rely on her expertise so often to solve a problem, research a transaction, or write a new procedure. She is a terrific writer, is very customer-focused, thrives under pressure, and enjoys a tight deadline — the perfect clutch hitter.”

Kristin talked to Shorelines about how things are going.

What’s changed at work for you since we spoke in 2018?
In 2019, just before covid hit, I moved into the supervisor role in Deposit Services. It was a difficult time to step into the role, but the majority of our team made it through 2020, and we have made some great additions since. I feel lucky to work with such a fantastic group of people, and I am now feeling comfortable in my role. We continue to learn and grow together.

Additionally, during 2020, when we were short-staffed, we took on some temporary employees in the Customer Support Center — one of whom was my son, Vincent Hoch. Vincent is now a full-time employee in the Electronic Banking department. We often carpool to work and occasionally have lunch. It is wonderful having him here!

Echo and Riley.

How about in your personal life?
Just after my 25th anniversary with the bank, in 2017, we adopted a border heeler puppy — a border collie/blue heeler mix — whom we named Echo. Then in 2020, we adopted a rescue named Riley to provide companionship for Echo while Vincent and I were at work. They both have my heart! They are so sweet and so much fun! I can’t imagine my life without them.

My current adventure is in looking for a new home. Competition is fierce, and pickings are slim, so wish me luck!

And what’s a big lesson you’ve learned in the last five years?
I have always been thankful for the people in my life, but I don’t spend enough time with them. Having now experienced a time when I could not be with friends or family, during the pandemic, I am learning not to take that for granted.