Meet the Team

J.T. Britton

Franchise Partner

J.T. holds a bachelor's degree in marketing and currently serves as the Managing Partner for the Express locations in Springfield, Jacksonville, and Bloomington, Illinois. His journey with Express began in 1993, and over the years, he has taken on nearly every role within the Springfield office. Starting as a Staffing Consultant, he quickly demonstrated his aptitude for understanding client needs and matching them with the right talent. As he progressed in his career, J.T. became the Manager of the Professional and Office Services teams, where he honed his leadership abilities and developed a keen insight into the unique demands of various industries. His dedication and strategic thinking eventually led him to the position of Director of Operations, where he was instrumental in streamlining processes and improving overall efficiency within the office. J.T.'s extensive experience across multiple facets of the staffing industry, combined with his exceptional training and coaching skills, has made a significant impact on the effectiveness of the staffing consultant team. His commitment to professional development fosters a culture of continuous improvement, empowering his team to excel in their roles and provide outstanding service to clients. Under J.T.'s guidance, the Express locations continue to thrive, reflecting his passion for the industry and his unwavering dedication to success.

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Kayla Edwards

Managing Partner

Kayla has been a valuable addition to Express since 1994, and has held nearly every position within our company. She currently serves as Managing Partner, holds the designation of a Certified Staffing Professional, and oversees the Springfield, Bloomington and Jacksonville locations. Kayla specializes in helping organizations create highly productive teams of people while controlling their cost of labor, and she has led her Springfield team to be one of the best in client retention. Her memberships include: Business Education Partnership Committee, Business Connections Committee, Community Connection Point Board and currently serves as Chair on the Board of Directors for the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce. She is a former Rotary International member and has also served as a United Way Loaned Executive. Prior to being recognized as a leader in the staffing industry, Kayla earned a Bachelor's degree in accounting from Southern Illinois University. Now, Kayla's "hands-on" experience and successes have made her a sought after speaker, trainer and consultant. Kayla's hard work has been proven in being the second person company-wide at Express to achieve the $1,000,000 producer award. In 2024 she was nominated for the highly coveted Athena Award, dedicated to empowering women in leadership. Kayla was also selected as one of Security Bank's 2024 Women of Influence.

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Zachery Britton

Franchise Partner & Director of Skilled Trades

Zachery is an integral part of our team, bringing a unique blend of academic expertise and practical experience to our family-owned business. He holds a bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in business from Oral Roberts University, a background that has equipped him with valuable insights into human behavior and organizational dynamics. Since joining Express in 2003, Zachery has made significant contributions to our Springfield office, particularly in developing our skilled trades team. His leadership and strategic vision have transformed this team into one of the highest-performing groups across all Express locations. His dedication to fostering a high-performance workforce has not gone unnoticed; he has received commendations from our largest local client, highlighting his exceptional ability to meet their staffing needs and drive success. Zachery's passion for helping others, combined with his expertise in psychology and business, makes him a vital asset to our team and a trusted partner for our clients. His contributions not only enhance our operational success but also embody the values of our family business, ensuring we remain committed to quality and service.

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Kirk Considine

Senior Director of Business Services

Kirk, a valued member of the Express Employment team since 2014, is a multi-million producer with an impressive 16 years of accounting experience. His extensive background provides him with a unique insight and deep understanding of the accounting and finance needs of our clients. Kirk plays a crucial role in sourcing top-tier IT, engineering, and accounting professionals for both permanent and temporary positions. Kirk holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Accounting from California State University-San Bernardino, as well as an MBA from Texas A&M University. In 2017, he was recognized with the prestigious President's Club Award from our headquarters, only being awarded to the top 5% of SRG recruiters. Between his track record of achievements and his passion for helping others, Kirk is a true servant leader.

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Jordan Stott

Accounting & Finance Recruiter

In 2020, Jordan transitioned to the Express team after dedicating over 12 years to the financial services industry. While his background initially revolved around numbers, he soon realized he valued conversations over calculations. Jordan’s role encompasses cultivating meaningful relationships and supporting others in their pursuit of success. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Management & Organizational Leadership from Illinois College, reflecting his expertise and commitment to professional development. In 2023, his exceptional performance earned him the President’s Club Award. Jordan is an active board member for Local First Springfield, an organization whose goal is to strengthen small businesses. In 2024, Jordan's contributions led to his selection as one of Springfield Business Journal's Forty Under 40 honorees, further solidifying his reputation as a trusted figure in the Springfield business community.

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Lea Jackson

Training & Development Manager

Lea has been an integral part of the Express team since January 2009, leveraging over four years of staffing industry experience to excel as our Training and Development Manager. Specializing in connecting managers and business owners with top talent, she focuses on both temporary and direct hire roles across a diverse range of industries. Her expertise spans positions including welders, factory laborers, banquet servers, restoration technicians, and various other industrial roles. Lea's deep understanding of the intricacies of each position allows her to identify candidates who not only meet the skill requirements but also align with the company culture, ensuring seamless integration into their new roles. With a proven track record of successful placements, Lea is a trusted partner for businesses looking to strengthen their teams. Her commitment to fostering strong relationships and her keen eye for talent make her an invaluable asset to both clients and candidates alike.

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Valerie Heaney

Office Services Employment Specialist

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Casey Hughes

Office Services Employment Specialist

Casey joined the Express team in April 2024, bringing a wealth of management experience and exceptional leadership skills to the organization. Since her arrival, she has made a significant impact by fostering strong relationships with both job seekers and employers, playing a pivotal role in facilitating successful placements. Under Casey's guidance, our office services team has become one of the highest performing in all of Express, a testament to her commitment to excellence and collaboration. Her passion for empowering individuals to reach their full potential resonates throughout the office, inspiring both applicants and colleagues alike. With her dedication to building meaningful connections and driving results, Casey is an invaluable asset to Express, helping to create opportunities that benefit everyone involved. Her contributions continue to elevate the standard of service we provide, making her a key player in our mission to connect talent with opportunity.

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Don Adams

Regional Director of Business Relations

Don Adams is an accomplished professional with over 15 years of experience in outside sales and management. He began his journey with Express in 2012 as an Area Manager, where he quickly demonstrated his leadership skills and strategic insight. In 2015, Don took on the role of Sales Manager, further solidifying his commitment to driving growth and excellence within the organization. As a former small business owner, Don understands the critical importance of attracting, developing, and retaining top talent. His hands-on experience in the entrepreneurial world has equipped him with a unique perspective that he brings to his current role as Regional Director of Business Relations. Born and raised in the Springfield community, Don is deeply committed to its success and is dedicated to fostering strong relationships that benefit both Express and the local area. In his free time, Don enjoys engaging with the community and contributing to initiatives that promote growth and collaboration. His dedication to excellence and community empowerment continues to drive success at Express.

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Michael Thomas

Director of Business Relationships

A Southern Illinois native; Michael's background in sales, marketing, and leadership all began in the retail industry. Helping companies develop a stronger workforce is now his passion. Serving as the current Board President of the Central Illinois Customer Service Association and Vice Chairman of the Salvation Army Board has afforded him the opportunity to develop deep and meaningful relationships within his community. Michael volunteers with the Red Cross, Central Illinois Food Bank, and other local agencies when he discovers an opportunity. Michael is very engaged in the community and enjoys helping people find their purpose. One of his passions is connecting individuals to opportunities and resources. Michael works closely with the Family Guidance Center, Gateway, Helping Hands, and many of the local churches. His ability to connect with both people and companies has earned him national recognition as a Top 50 Sales Representative for Express in 2019 and 2024. Michael has been recognized by the Springfield Business Journal for the 40 under 40 award, UIS for the "Good As Gold" volunteerism award, and the hometown hero award from Modern Woodmen. Michael is a proud father, husband, and man of faith and his commitment to the community and helping others is apparent in the way he serves.

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Emily Pasley

Marketing & Engagement Leader

Emily joined the Express team in 2023 as a Front Office Coordinator, but soon transitioned into the role of Marketing Specialist, where she focused on enhancing our social media presence and strengthening community outreach efforts. In recognition of her contributions, Emily was promoted to Marketing & Engagement Leader in 2024. In this role, she manages the social media channels and websites for our Springfield, Jacksonville, and Bloomington offices. Her creativity and strategic approach help to connect our message with the community and engage our audience effectively. Emily holds an associate's degree in communications from Lincoln Land Community College and earned her bachelor's degree in English from Illinois State University. When she’s not working, Emily loves to unwind by playing video games and spending quality time with her cat, Fiona. Her blend of creativity, expertise, and enthusiasm makes her a valuable asset to our team and a key player in our marketing efforts.

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Cortez Gillespie

Light Industrial Team Lead

Cortez joined the Express team in 2023 following a distinguished 30-year career in the US Army, where he served as a First Sergeant. Throughout his military tenure, Cortez undertook various overseas assignments, including deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication. Upon concluding his military service, Cortez, alongside his wife LaTona, relocated to Springfield, where he assumed the role of Director of Administrative Services at the Illinois Comptroller's office for nearly six years. Cortez is a proud graduate of Southeast High School.

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Jacob Dixon

Light Industrial Employment Specialist

Jacob joined the Springfield Express team in the Spring of 2024 as an Employment Specialist, bringing with him a wealth of experience in sales and customer service from his previous role at AT&T. His strong background equips him with the skills necessary to connect job seekers with the right opportunities, making a significant impact in our community. Residing in Carlinville, Jacob is eager to ramp up our southern market, leveraging his expertise to enhance our reach and effectiveness. He is passionate about building relationships and is dedicated to helping both candidates and employers find the perfect match. Outside of work, Jacob enjoys fishing and playing flag football, and he treasures his role as a father to his two daughters. His commitment to family and community is evident in everything he does, making him a valuable addition to the Express team.

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Sara King

Light Industrial Employment Specialist

Sara is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in hiring and recruiting. Before joining the Express Light Industrial team as an Employment Specialist, Sara worked in the funeral business! Known for her ability to "make things happen," she brings a proactive and results-driven approach to her work. Sara is committed to connecting talented individuals with rewarding opportunities. Outside of work, she is a devoted wife and mother of two children!

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Jennifer Cline

Light Industrial Employment Specialist

Jennifer brings a wealth of experience to our team, having worked extensively within the staffing industry. She has worked for several of our clients in the insurance industry, and even worked as an Express contractor in her early career! Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jennifer is a former athlete who has coached her children’s basketball teams, as well as at Washington Middle School and Lanphier High School, including leading an AAU national championship team! Her competitive spirit and teamwork make her a remarkable asset to our organization. 

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Fadra Birdsell

Recruiting Specialist

Fadra has been an integral part of the Express team since 2019, serving as a Recruitment Specialist. Each week, she connects with dozens of applicants, passionately dedicated to matching them with positions that align with their interests and skills. Her keen eye for talent and commitment to helping others find their perfect fit make her an invaluable asset to our team. In addition to her role at Express, Fadra owns her own hair salon, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and creative flair. Known for her craftiness, she isn't afraid to roll up her sleeves and dive into hands-on projects. Fadra has been happily married for over 30 years and is the proud mother of three beautiful children. 

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Zachery Britton

Franchise Partner & Director of Skilled Trades

Zachery is an integral part of our team, bringing a unique blend of academic expertise and practical experience to our family-owned business. He holds a bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in business from Oral Roberts University, a background that has equipped him with valuable insights into human behavior and organizational dynamics. Since joining Express in 2003, Zachery has made significant contributions to our Springfield office, particularly in developing our skilled trades team. His leadership and strategic vision have transformed this team into one of the highest-performing groups across all Express locations. His dedication to fostering a high-performance workforce has not gone unnoticed; he has received commendations from our largest local client, highlighting his exceptional ability to meet their staffing needs and drive success. Zachery's passion for helping others, combined with his expertise in psychology and business, makes him a vital asset to our team and a trusted partner for our clients. His contributions not only enhance our operational success but also embody the values of our family business, ensuring we remain committed to quality and service.

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Brian Brown

Senior Employment Specialist

Brian Brown is a seasoned professional who played a pivotal role in the growth of our Jacksonville and Bloomington offices before returning to Springfield as a Senior Employment Specialist on the Skilled Trades team. Brian is an alumnus of Illinois State University, where he earned a degree in business management. With a deep passion for helping others, Brian is dedicated to empowering individuals to enhance their lives through meaningful employment opportunities. A devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and football enthusiast, Brian finds joy in sports and spending quality time with his loving wife and children!

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Sallie Noller

Front Office & Payroll Coordinator

Sallie joined the Express team during the summer of 2024 as a Front Office Coordinator. She is the smiling face at the front desk, always offering a warm welcome to visitors. Coming from a remote work environment in tech, she realized how much she values face-to-face interaction. Recently, Sallie has also taken on the responsibility of associate payroll, further enhancing her contributions to the team. Her blend of warmth and professionalism makes her a valued member of the Express family. When she's not working hard, you can find her at home in Sherman watching the Cubs game. Sallie is happily married, a proud mother, and the loving owner of two adorable pugs.

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Megan Elmore

Front Office Coordinator

Megan joined the Express Springfield team in September of 2024, bringing a wealth of experience from her time in the banking industry. As our Front Office Coordinator, she ensures a seamless experience for those in our office. Outside of her professional life, Megan is a huge fan of Disney, including Star Wars. Her vibrant personality brings a spark to our Front Office team!

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Adrienne Jeffers

Front Office Coordinator

Adrienne has been a Front Office Coordinator at Express since 2021. She is often the first face people see when coming into our office and she always greets them with a smile. Adrienne’s managerial experience combined with her overall care and compassion for everyone has made her a vital member of our team. She is happily married to her husband Robbie, with their two kids Maddie and Braxton. When Adrienne isn’t at work, you can find her serving at her church or DIYing her latest project! 

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Eric Franklin

Business Manager

Eric has been a dedicated member of the Express team since 1998, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. With a degree in Business Administration, Eric expertly manages payroll and payables, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in every transaction. However, his contributions extend far beyond payroll. As our Business Manager, Eric is the go-to person for a wide range of tasks, including troubleshooting computer issues, administering benefits for in-house staff, and setting up meeting rooms. His ability to handle multiple responsibilities with ease makes him an invaluable resource for the entire team. Known for his reliability and problem-solving skills, Eric plays a crucial role in keeping the office running smoothly. His long-standing commitment to Express and his multifaceted skill set make him a cornerstone of our operations, and we’re grateful to have him on our team.

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