Meet Thomas Hudson- HR Coordinator

Position: HR Coordinator

How long have you worked at McMaster? Joined the HR Operation’s Employee Contact Centre in November of 2022 after going back to school to earn my Post-Graduate Certificate in HR Management.

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I grew up as a ‘Military Brat’ while both my Parents were stationed at Canadian Air Force bases in Alberta and Ontario. After heading out on my own at the age of 18, I eventually found myself back in my home town of Hamilton, ON with a loving Family of my own and a new second career at McMaster University! At heart, I’m still just a big kid who loves Star Wars, loud music, and gummi bears. I enjoy being a Dad and spending time with my Family, but I also like some alone time to play video games or work on any one of my various creative projects.

In 3 sentences or less, describe your job and the best part of your job? I am on campus 5 days a week, at the HR Service Desk in Gilmour Hall. Our Team is available for General HR Inquiries and Help in-person, by phone, and by e-mail.

What is your favourite quote and why? From the novel ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ by Douglas Adams, “Don’t Panic.” It’s such a simple quote, yet very effective! I will often recall this little quote whenever life tosses me a curveball. It reminds me to take a moment and consider all my options before moving forward.

What is your favourite thing to do when you’re not at work? Among my various hobbies and interests, the things that most occupy me are my days out playing Airsoft (similar to Paintball) and being a Dad to 5 kids (4 Girls, and a very recent addition of a little Boy!). I love sharing my passions and interests with my kids and involving them whenever I can. In turn, they then want to share their passions with me!

The Division of Operations and Finance has identified the core values that run through all of our work: curiosity, accountability, quality, empathy, teamwork, inclusiveness, and integrity. Please tell us which value means the most to you and why, and any work you are doing that embodies or speaks to the value. All the core values are important in their own way. But, I think one that’s very important in my role is Empathy. Employees often reach out to HR with their concerns and issues. I believe it’s essential to listen to and empathize with their issue. Most people just want to know that someone has heard them, understands their concern, and will work towards a solution on their behalf.
What is a piece of advice you would give to someone embarking on their career at McMaster University?
Get to know your Team! Success can not be achieved alone. Our HR Team has been so supportive and is a very big reason why I enjoy coming to work every day!

What is a piece of advice you would give to someone embarking on their career at McMaster University? Get to know your Team! Success can not be achieved alone. Our HR Team has been so supportive and is a very big reason why I enjoy coming to work every day!