UNSUNG HERO – Charlene Ploessl – Boardman Clark

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Charlene Ploessl did not plan on a legal career, but a flyer her mom found from a local law firm looking for a legal secretary changed that.

“I applied with zero experience or expectation and was told that the firm actually preferred to train on the job. I was hired and I’ve been at it ever since,” said Ploessl, who has been with the law offices of Boardman Clark for nearly 30 years. “I enjoy being part of a team and seeing a job well done.”

Her incredible work ethic and organizational skills have made Ploessl indispensable to her co-workers, said attorney Sarah Reusché.

“Without a doubt, we can trust Charlene to guarantee that we are promptly and transparently communicating with clients on a regular basis and never missing a deadline,” Reusché said, adding it is not unusual to see Ploessl staying late or coming in on days when she’s not required to assist with casework.

When new assistants start at Boardman Clark, Ploessl is the first to volunteer her time and expertise to provide additional training. She recalled mentoring a temporary assistant several years ago who was filling in for someone on maternity leave.

“She didn’t have any legal office experience. I remembered my first few days and weeks in the office, and I knew how she must have been feeling,” Ploessl said. “I took care to explain not just what needed to be done but also the reason behind it and the steps involved. She was so appreciative. That’s always stuck with me.”

Ploessl is the go-to person in the Madison office for questions, said Morgan Eder, the firm’s social media and community outreach coordinator.

“Charlene cares about her colleagues’ success just as much as her own, and we’re a better law firm because of it. We couldn’t be prouder to have her on our team,” Eder said.