From taking on new responsibilities to learning new skills, our team members have shown dedication and commitment to their careers. This month, we’re sharing some of their stories related to professional growth.
Meet Cheryl Martin, Senior Software Engineer!
Tell us about your career at L&P.
I began my Leggett & Platt career as a Programmer Analyst, working on large product‑code expansion and Y2K initiatives on our IBM mainframe systems using COBOL and IDMS databases. Over time, I moved into Advanced and then Senior Programmer Analyst roles, supporting billing, sales, pricing, product, and financial applications.
My responsibilities grew significantly during the Microsoft AX 2012 implementation and later the upgrade to Microsoft D365. I contributed to the rollout of Accounts Payable, General Ledger, Cash and Bank, and P2P Payments, including the SK Global Treasury Automation and FXall LSEG applications. I also spent eight months in Detroit supporting the launch of the Business Process Transformation Automotive project, then joined the Corporate EDI team for four years. In 2024, I returned to the Business Process Transformation Automotive (BPT) initiative as part of the data‑migration team and later served as a subject-matter expert for the SK Global Treasury Automation implementation on the LPNA D365 project. Throughout these periods of change, I advanced from Technical Specialist to Advanced Technical Specialist and now to Senior Software Engineer.
I currently support the Billing Admin application and recently joined the LPCS team. I also serve as co‑administrator for ESP CA‑Workload Automation. My work focuses on providing development and support that help our business teams operate efficiently. Because of my broad experience across applications and departments, I often serve as a liaison and subject‑matter expert on cross‑functional projects.
One of the most engaging aspects of my role is the constant opportunity to learn and grow. Supporting and collaborating across multiple business applications allows me to help bridge the gap between business needs and technical solutions, ensuring we deliver efficient, high‑impact results that support our strategic goals. Helping our stakeholders and business users in their day‑to‑day work – and assisting with timely resolutions – is especially rewarding.
What or who has helped you with your career growth?
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Computational Mathematics CIS, a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, and an Associate of Science in General Business. But some of the most important lessons I’ve learned have come from the people around me.
I’ve been fortunate to have excellent mentors in every role. Collaborating on diverse projects has given me a deep well of experience, and in 2015, I was challenged to be ready to step into any project at any time. It was nerve‑racking at first, but it taught me adaptability, confidence, and the value of saying “yes” when a team needs support. I encourage others to embrace similar opportunities. Recently, I volunteered as a mentor in the IT Mentorship Program, where meeting new colleagues, sharing experiences, and offering guidance has been incredibly rewarding. Lifting others up not only strengthens the team, builds confidence, and aligns the team – it also helps you move more easily into new opportunities.
My grandfather, who ran a business across eight states, also shaped my work ethic. Spending summers traveling with him taught me that every role matters and that hard work, communication, and service are the foundation of any successful team.
What do you like to do outside of work?
My life is full and joyful. My children are grown, and my five grandchildren keep me busy almost every day. I also have a Labrador named Jack who loves the outdoors and keeps me entertained. My extended family and friends are spread across several states, and I love traveling to visit them. Over the years, we’ve explored coastlines, mountain ranges, national parks, and national forests – experiences that keep me grounded, connected, and grateful.