Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Medal of Honor Recipient (twice)
Austin Academic Achievement Award
National Honor Society Member
Charles O. Austin Jr. Scholar
Timeline
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Kaiya McKinley

Rock Island,IL

Summary

Motivated and dependable professional with a diverse background in military human resources, youth coaching, customer service, and student leadership. Currently serving as a Human Resource Specialist in the Iowa Army National Guard, with proven skills in personnel administration, communication, leadership, and collaboration. Experienced in coaching competitive cheerleading and gymnastics, fostering discipline and confidence in young athletes. Known for adaptability, strong work ethic, and a passion for helping other succeed


Overview

5
5
years of professional experience

Work History

Coach

Next Level Athletics
04.2022 - Current
  • Coached competitive all-star cheerleading teams, focusing on skill development, team building, team bonding, and performance readiness.
  • Taught athletes proper technique for stunts, tumbling, jumps, and gymnastic skills, while ensuring safety and spotting protocols.
  • Motivated athletes to build confidence, discipline, and resilience on and off the mat.
  • Provided consistent feedback and encouragement to help athletes overcome mental blocks and technical challenges.
  • Encouraged strong work ethic, time management, and sportsmanship, in young athletes.
  • Organized and led team practices, conditioning, and team bonding.

Human Resources Specialist

United States Army National Guard
02.2022 - Current
  • Manage, update, and safeguard personnel records for hundreds of soldiers, ensuring compliance with Army regulations and data accuracy
  • Provide guidance to soldiers on entitlements, career advancement procedures, and personnel actions.
  • Coordinate with leadership to support unit and mission readiness, accountability, and morale.
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive and personal information.
  • Assisted with casualty paperwork, emergency contacts, and dependent support documentation with discretion and care.
  • Cross trained in recruiting, retention, supply, communications, advanced weapon systems, and funeral honors, to support the Iowa Army National Guard needs beyond the core Human Resources responsibilities.

Customer Service Representative

Hy-Vee
10.2020 - Current
  • .Handled transactions, returns, and product inquiries while maintaining accuracy and a positive attitude.
  • Educated customers about billing, payment processing and support policies and procedures.
  • Trained and mentored new team members on company policies, register systems, and best practices.
  • Delivered friendly, and efficient service to customers in high-volume environments, consistently exceeding satisfaction expectations.
  • Resolved customer complaints with empathy, resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.
  • Cross-trained and provided backup support for a variety of different departments when needed.

Education

No Degree - Biology

St. Ambrose University
Davenport, IA
05-2027

High School Diploma -

Rock Island High School
Rock Island
05-2023

Skills

  • Personable and friendly
  • Effective communication
  • Ethics and integrity
  • Training and mentoring
  • Customer service
  • Conflict resolution

Medal of Honor Recipient (twice)

Awarded by Mrs. Lisa Maxwell and Mr. Tyler Allison, 2017

Awarded by Washington Junior High School, 2019

An award focused on character development, recognizing students who show outstanding character, leadership, and service. Recognized for willingness to help others in any way and for leading by example. 


Austin Academic Achievement Award

An annual recognition to honor outstanding academic accomplishments of students at Rock Island High School, to celebrate the top ten students in each class. 

National Honor Society Member

Rock Island High School, 2022-2023

Selected for excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Completed over 40 hours of community service.

Charles O. Austin Jr. Scholar

Rock Island High School, Rock Island-Milan School District #41

Awarded September 27th, 2022

An academic honor awarded to students at Rock Island High School who completed six semesters of study, while maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher. 

Timeline

Coach

Next Level Athletics
04.2022 - Current

Human Resources Specialist

United States Army National Guard
02.2022 - Current

Customer Service Representative

Hy-Vee
10.2020 - Current

No Degree - Biology

St. Ambrose University

High School Diploma -

Rock Island High School
Kaiya McKinley