Name: Joanne Holewa
Job title:Manager - Hockey Operations
Education: Nassau Community College, Hofstra University (Accounting Degree)
Years of hockey experience (Include on- and off-ice hockey-related experience): 45 years
Describe your job in 2-3 sentences:It is my job to assist with any of the needs of the Hockey Operations department. This includes training camp arrangements, team travel all year round. Process immigration paperwork for all players, coaches and staff and coordinating the filing of NHL and AHL contracts.
What was your first-ever job, and did it prepare you for the work you do today?
I was a secretary in a corporate office. My first hockey job was working for the Pittsburgh Penguins as the secretary for the team's former COO, Wren Blair.
What's the best piece of career advice you've ever been given, or what advice do you like to give others?
Treat people the way you would like to be treated; Change is constant in hockey so remain open to new ideas and procedures; You spend more time at work than at home so value your family time
What is a quality you admire most in others (personal or professional)?
The ability to treat everyone fairly no matter their position.
What motivates you to keep pushing and be successful?
Just enjoying doing my job every day and helping people do theirs.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement to date?
Enduring everything that came with coordinating the plans during the four straight Stanley Cup victories and the everyday to win the 5th.
Describe a moment where you proudly thought to yourself, "I can't believe this is my job!"
When I was acclimating to my first job in Pittsburgh. That was the moment where I couldn't believe I was starting in hockey.
What sports did you play, and enjoy most or least, growing up?
I played baseball and softball recreationally. QUEENS NEW YORK STYLE!
If you could instantly become an expert in anything, what would it be and why?
Interior Design
What are your hobbies and why do you enjoy it/them?
Gardening because I love being out in the fresh air after so many years in the hockey rink.
Cooking my favorite recipes for family during the holidays
Reading, walking and yoga (all relaxing and restorative)
What is your favorite book and why?
"Unbroken" - Laura Hillenbrand
How would your closest friends describe you?
Loyal, hard-working, loving, caring and trust worthy
Are you a morning person or night owl?
Morning person
What's your favorite movie or TV show?
HGTV
What is your most-used emoji?
Smiley face
Do you have any hidden talents (if yes, what)?
Cooking
