Meet Kyle Kast, SET SEG’s Senior Communications Strategist and a driving force behind our storytelling and brand messaging. Kyle plays a key role in crafting engaging content that connects with our members, ensuring that SET SEG’s mission and services are communicated effectively. With a keen eye for strategy and a passion for impactful storytelling, he helps shape the voice of our organization across various platforms.

His background in education and communications has equipped him with the skills to turn complex information into clear, compelling narratives. Whether he’s refining messaging, creating engaging content, or collaborating with teams across the organization, Kyle’s expertise and creativity make him an invaluable part of SET SEG.

Q&A: Kyle Kast

Q: What is your role at SET SEG?

My work at SET SEG is divided into two areas: communications and operations. I write and revise much of the organization’s longer-form written content, from our Member Advantage publication to the Member Minute newsletter to any informational emails sent to our members.

I also coordinate day-to-day operations in the Marketing Department, managing our ticket system, tracking marketing and communications needs throughout the year, and assigning tasks to team members.

Q: Why SET SEG?

I used to teach writing at the community college level, but I ultimately left to pursue communications opportunities in the private sector. After managing a communications and marketing team at a small tech company for several years, I wanted to leverage my experience in a space that I actually cared about.

I have been intertwined with education, particularly public schools, my whole life. My mother was an English teacher at Holt High School for decades and many of my family and friends have been educators and administrators at different points in their lives. When I went on the hunt for an opportunity that aligns with my values, I explicitly sought out positions that support educators.

I quickly discovered SET SEG, staffed by former educators and administrators, directly supporting the safety and security of Michigan public schools. I didn’t set out to pursue a career with a risk management organization, but I’m happy to now be working for a company that puts educators and students first.

Q: What do you like about your job?

I appreciate the opportunities to impact my team, SET SEG, and Michigan public schools as a whole. When crises occur, like freezing weather or cyberattacks, I often work alongside SET SEG experts, gathering their knowledge and recommendations and getting that information out to our members as quickly as possible.

On the other side of my job, I’m constantly working to keep operations consistent and effective, ensuring our talented marketing team members have everything they need to perform at their best possible level.

Q: What does working at SET SEG mean to you?

It might seem like I’m spewing marketing rhetoric, but it’s true – working at SET SEG means working with a group of talented, passionate individuals who are wholly committed to our mission of supporting Michigan public schools. We’re all working together to keep your roofs intact and students safe.

Thinking back on my time as an educator, I’m grateful to be at an organization that truly understands the needs of districts across the state. I admittedly felt some regret leaving the education industry a decade ago for a career in communications – pulling away from a position I devoted years of my own education to. Since being hired at SET SEG, I’ve felt as though things have come full circle. I’m still using the skills I’ve honed over years of marketing and communications but doing so to support the world I once sought to live and operate in.

Q: How do you feel like you make an impact through SET SEG?

I help maintain SET SEG’s unified messaging and keep the marketing and communications trains running on time. I could write newsletters and coordinate marketing operations anywhere. But here, I get to support something I care deeply about, while honing my skills and growing professionally.

Meet Mary Schraft, SET SEG’s friendly and welcoming receptionist. Mary is the first person people see when they visit our office and often the first voice they hear when they call. She brings a warm and positive energy to our workplace, making her an integral part of our team. Her path to this position is an interesting one – Mary previously worked as an X-ray technician at what was then called the SET SEG Family Healthcare Center. Transitioning to this new role has allowed her to bring her commitment to helping others into a different setting, where she continues to make an impact every day.

Q&A: Mary Schraft

Q: What is your role at SET SEG?

I am often the first point of contact, whether saying good morning and having the coffee going for co-workers or answering the phone and greeting visitors when they arrive. I ensure every guest, employee, and caller feels welcomed and cared for from the moment they interact with SET SEG.

Q: What do you like about your job?

For me, it’s all about the people! I like sitting at my desk every day and experiencing the camaraderie with those I work with – both in good times and bad. I see everyone working together, all towards the same purpose, and accomplishing what they set out to do. I also like being the person others can count on when an extra hand is needed.

Q: What does working at SET SEG mean to you?

I really enjoyed my time in the field of healthcare. But at this stage of my life, doing something different and working for an organization that values every single employee and member, is truly a blessing. I am so grateful for this opportunity to work here every day.

Q: How do you feel like you make an impact through SET SEG?

When asked about how she makes an impact, Mary humbly replied: “I’m not sure how I make an impact. You guys do all the hard work!”

But we know Mary’s impact is felt every day. From her warm greetings to her willingness to go above and beyond, Mary helps create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone who walks through our doors or calls our office.

Thank you, Mary, for everything you do to support SET SEG and for being the smiling face representing us so well!

Meet Kristen Finkbeiner, our dedicated compensation and benefits administrator here at SET SEG! This open enrollment season, she’s playing a crucial role in guiding our own team members through the enrollment process, ensuring they make the best choices for their unique needs.

In any organization, having someone in this role is essential for navigating the complexities of benefits and making sure employees feel supported. With her expertise and hands-on support, Kristen is helping SET SEG employees understand their options and take full advantage of the comprehensive benefits we offer. Her commitment mirrors our mission of providing clear, knowledgeable support to all those we serve.

Q&A: Kristen Finkbeiner

Q: What is your role at SET SEG?

As a Human Resources team member, I approach each day with a servant’s heart. My goal is to be available and offer support to our staff members so they can focus on serving our members.

Q: What do you like about your job?

I enjoy that my role has a large scope of responsibilities including benefits, compensation, recruitment, compliance, and everything in between! No two days are ever the same which keeps things exciting and busy!

Q: What does working at SET SEG mean to you?

Putting schools first, working as a team, and simplifying the complex those – values really come to life in everything we do here. I’m grateful to work alongside such talented people who truly embody these values every day. Being part of that mission and seeing it in action is incredibly rewarding.

Q: How do you feel like you make an impact through SET SEG?

Serving Michigan public schools is our specialty. Being an outlet for our staff members during the good times and bad so they can focus on serving our members gives my role purpose. Human resources has always been a passion of mine because it allows me to serve others.

Q: Can you share your journey at SET SEG and how your career has evolved?

As I approach my 12th anniversary with SET SEG, it’s incredible to look back on the experiences and opportunities I’ve had throughout my career. After holding multiple roles in the Employee Benefits division and now being part of the HR team, I feel truly grateful for the support I’ve received from my coworkers and leaders. Their encouragement has allowed me to grow my skills and knowledge in ways I never would have anticipated, pushing me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new challenges.

For Michigan public schools, staying compliant with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) can be complex and challenging. ACA tracking and reporting require careful monitoring of employee hours, benefits eligibility, and adherence to federal healthcare mandates. Public schools, with their large and diverse workforces — often including part-time staff — face the added difficulty of ensuring accurate reporting to avoid costly penalties while also offering affordable healthcare to eligible employees.

That’s where SET SEG’s ACA Tracking & Reporting team steps in. Meet Isaac Updike, our ACA Data Analyst, who plays a pivotal role in helping our member districts navigate these challenges and maintain ACA compliance.

Q&A: Isaac Updike

Q: What is your role at SET SEG?

I oversee or maintain our ACA software. Essentially, I make sure the lights stay on – fixing bugs, providing analytical resources to our team, and also monitoring compliance among our membership.

Q: What do you like about your job?

What I love most about my job is the people and the culture here at SET SEG. It’s a genuinely friendly and collaborative environment where everyone’s ideas are welcome, and teamwork is a big part of what we do. It makes the workplace enjoyable, and I’ve built some great relationships along the way. We’ve had a lot of fun get-togethers, and many of my coworkers have become lifelong friends.

What sets SET SEG apart is that the culture isn’t just a buzzword – it’s something that’s truly lived every day. Leadership is approachable and always open to hearing ideas, and from day one, I’ve felt like my voice is valued.

On top of that, the mission here is something I’m proud to be part of. Having come from a large corporate insurance environment, the focus there was on profit. Here, we’re focused on serving public schools, which is close to my heart as a public school graduate. It’s rewarding to know that the work we do makes a real difference.

Q: What does working at SET SEG mean to you?

Working at SET SEG means a lot to me for two reasons. Professionally, it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that the work I do makes a real difference. I have no ethical concerns about the work we do here – we’re genuinely helping public schools. When a school comes to us facing a fine for compliance, and we’re able to negotiate it down or put a strategy in place to prevent future issues, it’s rewarding to see the positive impact we have.

And personally, it provides a sense of security. The benefits package here gives me peace of mind, allowing me to focus on what matters most without the worries that many people face. I can take time off to visit my family out of state and have access to affordable healthcare.

Q: How do you feel like you make an impact through SET SEG?

The impact I make at SET SEG goes beyond just helping schools avoid fines. We work closely with districts to create benefit plans that not only meet their employees’ needs but also comply with the law. What I do is take the burden off school leadership by using my expertise to manage these complex tasks.

This allows business managers and superintendents to focus on what truly matters – educating students and supporting staff – while we handle the behind-the-scenes work to ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s rewarding to know that our support makes their jobs easier.

Q: What do you wish others knew about SET SEG’s ACA Tracking & Reporting service?

What I wish more people knew about SET SEG’s ACA Tracking & Reporting service is that we’re not just a software tool – we’re also a trusted advisor on ACA compliance. While our tools are great for generating reports, we offer so much more. We provide personalized resources and work closely with our members to ensure they understand their obligations and stay compliant. We want schools to know we’re here to help them navigate these complex requirements.

For non-members, it’s important to understand that ACA enforcement can be tricky. It’s surprisingly easy to fall out of compliance without realizing it, and some districts may not even know there’s an issue until they receive a fine years later. Whether you work with us or another benefits advisor, it’s crucial to check in and ensure you’re following the right procedures to avoid unexpected penalties.

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the importance of a skilled and versatile IT team connot be overstated. Information Technology encompasses a variety of critical roles, each contributing to the seamless operation and success of an organization. From network security to system administration, these dedicated professionals ensure that technology empowers rather than hinders.

This week, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on one of our key IT team members, Data Engineer Adriana Paz Santos. Tasked with the vital role of ensuring everyone has access to accurate and timely data, Paz Santos enables informed decision-making for employees at all levels across the organization.

Q&A: Adriana Paz Santos

Q: What is your role at SET SEG?

My role at SET SEG is to ensure everyone has access to accurate and timely data to perform their best. I use various tools to build systems for collecting, managing, and converting raw data into usable information. My primary goal is to ensure data accessibility, enabling us to provide services and effectively and continually evaluate and optimize our performance.

Q: What do you like about your job?

An important aspect of my job is having the creative freedom to design and build data transformation systems that deliver the necessary data across the organization. I value the trust my team places in me and appreciate how naturally my work aligns with our core value of simplifying the complex.

Q: What does working at SET SEG mean to you?

Working at SET SEG means doing my best every day to support schools so they can focus on the education of children across Michigan. Our IT team, and the organization as a whole, foster an environment of engagement and collaboration by keeping our systems updated, secure, and open to innovation.

Q: How do you feel like you make an impact through SET SEG?

Even though I do “behind-the-scenes” work, what I do ensures that other teams at SET SEG can confidently rely on our systems to provide amazing service to schools.

In today’s digitally-driven world, where data breaches and cyber threats are an ever-present danger, the role of cyber security specialists has never been more critical. With the education sector consistently ranked in the top five areas targeted by cybercriminals, it’s imperative that SET SEG practice what we preach to our members every day — safeguard our digital footprint to prevent malicious attacks on our data.

Meet Scott Huntley, SET SEG’s Director of Information Technology and Security, whose expertise in cybersecurity is SET SEG’s frontline defense against cybercriminals. From implementing security protocols to staying ahead of emerging threats, Huntley’s work is a blend of technical prowess and strategic thinking, ensuring our sensitive information remains secure.

Q&A: Scott Huntley

Q: What is your role at SET SEG?

At SET SEG I have several roles. First I  lead a team of very talented people committed to providing a safe, modern, and secure computing environment for our organization. I also serve as the Information Security Officer. In today’s world data is king, so it’s important to have someone responsible for ensuring our data is protected.

Q: What do you like about your job?

What I love about my job is the variety. Every day presents a new challenge, and I never know what to expect. I typically start my day with a plan, but often shift focus depending on the issues and tasks that come up throughout the course of the day. This keeps things fresh and makes coming to work more enjoyable.

Q: What does working at SET SEG mean to you?

I am married to an educator so have a deep understanding of what these people do for our kids in Michigan and how hard they work. Being part of an organization that lightens the burden on educators so they don’t have to worry about their insurance and benefit needs is incredibly rewarding.

Q: How do you feel like you make an impact through SET SEG?

I always say that cyber security is a team sport. My Team can only do so much when it comes to ensuring our data is protected — we need everyone’s help. I strive to make an impact by building trust with our staff. We are all busy and sometimes get in a rush and click on something we know we shouldn’t have, or reply to an email that ends up being a phishing attempt. I want staff to feel comfortable to come to me should they make a mistake that could lead to a cyber breach. Every minute that goes by makes containing an incident harder, so I want to be everyone’s first line of contact when it comes to cyber incidents.

Q: Why do you feel it’s so imperative that employees are educated on cyber security?

Technology can only protect SET SEG so much, and like all companies, our employees are the way in for a targeted cyber-attack. If our staff knows what to look for when it comes to an attempt to access our data, then these attacks can be prevented. What’s more, companies that experience a cyber-attack, are often targeted again and again. If the first attempt isn’t successful, most often the bad actors will move on and look for an easier target.

My team and I provide extensive cybersecurity training for our staff, which they can then apply to their personal lives. I hope they take this knowledge home and educate their families.

At SET SEG many staff members, and even whole departments, are crucial to our success yet often work behind the scenes — far less visible to our members and stakeholders. One example is our finance team, the backbone of our organization. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures accurate financial reporting and compliance, while their strategic analysis and forecasting guide critical decision-making. Leading this team is SET SEG’s Chief Financial Officer, Amy Maneval.

Maneval plays a pivotal role in managing budgets, monitoring expenditures, and optimizing resource allocation, to lead the finance team in sustaining the organization’s financial health and supporting its long-term goals. Her contributions are indispensable, providing the stability and insight needed for the organization to thrive.

Q&A: Amy Maneval

Q: What is your role at SET SEG?

I lead the Finance team at SET SEG, where we ensure the timely and accurate recording and reporting of financial results. Our team provides critical analysis and forecasts, collaborating with the executive team to evaluate initiatives while balancing long-term financial goals. By working closely with company leadership, we ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively, enabling us to serve schools for years to come.

Q: What do you like about your job?

As someone with a background in accounting, I naturally enjoy working with numbers and reporting financial results to stakeholders. Beyond that, I love collaborating with various teams across our organization to plan for the future. Our team is incredibly talented, supportive, and innovative, making it a pleasure to come together to strategize and solve problems.

Q: What does working at SET SEG mean to you?

I have worked here for 20 years and am deeply committed to our mission. Working at SET SEG means I work with people who value and support Michigan public schools, which is incredibly rewarding. Our team is committed to bringing solutions to school districts, whether it is to better protect employees or to offer a service that gives peace of mind to our members.

Q: How do you feel like you make an impact through SET SEG?

My work supports the allocation of resources to critical initiatives across the organization. I feel that I make a significant impact by ensuring the financial stability and transparency of our organization. Knowing that my efforts, along with my colleagues, ultimately contribute to the protection and well-being of school employees and their work, gives me a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.