Meet ystark! YP: Aly Brine

Name

Aly Brine

Age:

28

Occupation/Title/Place of work:

Human Resources Consultant, Marathon Petroleum Company-Ohio Refining Division

Why are you interested in Stark County’s Young Professionals initiative?

There is such an importance for young professionals to begin stepping up in our community and Stark County’s Young Professionals initiative provides that platform. Now is the time to learn from those who helped pave the way and to begin putting our own spin on how we envision the community moving forward.

What would you share to encourage other people to join?

Meeting people in person and building a network is vital, even in the age of online networking. Whether it’s meeting other individuals who can help you in your career journey or simply making a new friend, YP groups provide the platform to do so.

Did you grow up in Stark? If so, where? If not, where did you move from and why?

I grew up in Medina and lived in Columbus for the last few years prior to moving here. I came to Stark County to work for Marathon.

Why do you stay in Stark County, from both a personal and professional point of view?

Growing up the only reason we came down to this area was to fly out of the airport and there was the stigma that the Canton area was this old, abandoned, industrial town so upon learning I was coming here, I was not too excited. That being said, I've been so incredibly surprised and pleased with living here. The people have been so welcoming and there's such a great opportunity to really get involved in the community to make a difference.

What do you like MOST about Stark County?

I love that there's a little bit of everything here. Everything from sports to the arts to great restaurants. And if it's not here, you can get to it quickly!

What would you change about Stark County if you could?

Continune to build up downtown! Coming from Columbus, I would love to see downtown thriving with restaurants, boutiques to provide more unique experiences and city vibes.

What do you see as valuable opportunities for YPs in Stark County when it comes to career opportunities, cultural access, leadership or community involvement opportunities?

I feel like Stark county is on the verge of a renaissance, especially after the Strengthening Stark Report came out. I think there are already a lot of opportunities here, especially when it comes to leadership and community involvement opportunities, and those opportunities will only continue to expand. If you have a desire to get involved, there are plenty of venues for you to do so.

What would attract more YPs to Stark County?

There are little hidden gems in Stark County as far as places and things to do and career opportunities but there’s not always a lot of advertising for it. I would love to see more information put out about things going on and unique places.

What do you do in the evenings or on the weekends for fun in Stark County or NE Ohio?

We’re always going out to restaurants and breweries. Shale Brewing Company, Royal Docks and Table 6 are a few of our local favorites.

Could you see yourself spending your lifetime in Stark County and if not, what would cause you to leave?

While Stark county has been a great place to work and live, we will probably eventually move back towards Medina to be closer to family. Even if so, Stark will always be a place that’s been important to us along the way!