Stephanie Marler never envisioned herself in a leadership position when she first was hired by the city of Paola in 2008 to be an administrative assistant for the public works department.
But thanks to her strong work ethic, willingness to learn and knowledge of the community, she quickly rose through the ranks.
On her five-year anniversary with the city, she was promoted to utility billing clerk and moved her office to Paola City Hall.
(Read more: The Miami County Republic)