Sharing her Story and Appreciation for FEWA’s H-2 Visa Programs
Robin Svec joined FEWA a little over a decade ago as a guide who assists members with the H-2 Visa program. In 2018, her responsibilities grew as she also became the association’s training coordinator. She transformed the training process by creating the member guide training handbook, which has become an essential tool for guides.
Education and flexibility are key to her roles as she works hard to educate member guides about the program and ushers them through frequent industry changes so they can provide important information to FEWA members.
“As a government program, there are always changes to H-2,” Robin explains. “I keep up with the training handbook and when changes come up, I meet with the team on what needs to be updated and how to proceed. We have returning members who we educate on changes, as well as members who are completely new to the program. It’s all about getting them on the right foot with knowing the program and setting them on the right path.”
Robin most values servicing others, whether its employers, workers or internally as a trainer.
She is grateful for the family network she has at FEWA and says the familial relationship the FEWA team has reflects onto the relationships they build with members.
Prior to coming to work for FEWA in 2013, Robin was an oil & gas lease analyst. She eventually relocated to Bay City and took a new job with FEWA. Knowing nothing about the association, she enthusiastically learned all she could.
Born and raised in a small town not far from FEWA headquarters, Robin has a close-knit family and grew up with many farm animals. “Growing up, we pretty much had every kind of animal there is. It undoubtedly sparked my love for animals and the outdoors,” she said.
When not working, Robin enjoys reading, gardening and taking care of her cat and a goat named Timothy, who is helpful around her garden. She says Timothy is one of her favorite pets and earns the title of Greatest Of All Time.
Witnessing the work and diligence of FEWA members and how they build their businesses from the ground up with the help of the H-2 visa program inspires her, along with the artistry and creativity of the workers.
“For the members and the workers, the H-2 process can be challenging, but don’t let it discourage you. If something doesn’t happen for you right away, that doesn’t mean it won’t happen. Persevere through the challenges,” Robin advises.
“FEWA prioritizes not only assisting our employer members but the workers, as well, by making sure their documents are delivered on time, their appointments are scheduled, and more. The visa means a lot to the workers, many who are providing for their families at home,” she says.
Robin is proud to be a part of the FEWA family. She’s appreciated by her team and FEWA members just as much as she appreciates the work she is able to do for them.