More Than Just a Staffing Agency
Halpin is an active participant in the communities we serve.
About Us
Halpin has been an active part of the Southeastern Wisconsin business community since 1994. For more than two decades, we have focused on providing local businesses with flexible customized staffing solutions including recruiting, workforce management and payroll. Halpin offers local career opportunities for candidates in a variety of industries. As a proud member of our community, we look for opportunities to serve our area through scholarships, sponsorships and volunteerism. We match top talent with great jobs in Southeastern, WI and Northeaster, IL.
Mission
To serve our communities, as a local market leader through a trusted service of excellence, bringing together business with candidates and associates of all industry.
Core Values
- Courage: You are willing to be critical of the status quo even if it is uncomfortable
- Inclusion: You nurture and embrace differing perspectives
- Humility: Carry ourselves with quiet confidence, treat others like you would want to be treated
- Winning: We accelerate each other in the pursuit of our mission
- Drive: Talent shines in ways to raise the bar
- Innovation: Developing an idea into a solution
- Discipline: Enabling us to follow through
How Can We Serve You Today?
Our Team
Michelle Smith
Managing Director
With 27 years in the staffing industry, I bring deep experience and a hands on approach to leading Halpin Staffing Services. As Managing Director at Halpin, I lead with a people-first mindset. I’m responsible for overseeing all areas of the business including client relationships, recruiting, business development, associate management and operations; all while focusing on strategy, efficiency, and results.
From day one, my goal has been to build more than just a business. I work to create a team where people feel supported, valued, and inspired to do great work. I believe the best outcomes come from strong teams, clear processes, and leadership that listens.
Driven by connection, purpose, and a desire to make things better, I bring years of experience to everything I do. I support and push my team and always look for ways to improve. As a leader, I focus on lifting others up, creating clarity, and empowering people to do their best work. If you put what you want out there and believe it, you can make it happen!!
I also believe great leaders never stop learning. I stay active in HR networks and keep a pulse on industry trends to ensure we are a step ahead.
Outside of work, I prioritize wellness and balance. Whether it’s CrossFit, pickleball, yoga, running, or walking, I stay active every day. I recharge my mind through reading and growing my personal library. Staying sharp physically and mentally is part of showing up fully as a leader, a teammate, and a person. I share a book any chance I get!
Ryan Halpin
President | Halpin Staffing Services
Hi, I’m Ryan, President of Halpin Staffing Services. I’ve worked in the family business my whole life. I first started as an associate working at clients in High School and then after college went to work for the business. I’ve worked a variety of jobs across the organization and have focused on developing the business beyond the family into a professionally managed organization.
One of my core business beliefs is that ‘a business can only grow as fast as it can find great employees; that can then grow themselves’. Likewise, a key management belief is ‘the strength of the team lies within the individual, and the strength of the individual lies within the team.” These tenets are fundamental to how I manage our business — focusing on developing a team, empowering our people, and then driving them forward in supporting our clients and associates.
When I’m not focused on the business, I enjoy golfing, parenting, reading, history, watching baseball, and exploring new food and craft beers.
Mary Rodriguez
Client Services Manager
Hi, I’m Mary! After starting my career in logistics, I discovered my passion for staffing and found my next career path here. I love helping people connect with opportunities and supporting both clients and candidates in reaching their goals.
I value personal growth and enjoy learning about different religions and beliefs, which helps me better understand and connect with the diverse individuals I work with. My approach to work is simple: bring a smile, stay positive, and create an encouraging environment for those around me.
Outside of work, I’m passionate about reducing my carbon footprint — I reuse more than I recycle and try to live as sustainably as possible. I’m a self-proclaimed “tree hugger” and love spending time outdoors, especially hiking. At home, I care for over 25 indoor plants, including a purple shamrock I’ve had since 2006, and I enjoy gardening, growing tomatoes, and nurturing flowers from seedlings.
Jennifer Kirt
Client Services Manager
Hi I’m Jenny, I've found immense satisfaction in helping people discover their next career. My approach is built on strong relationships and a collaborative spirit. I'm dedicated to working with the Halpin team to continuously improve our processes and adapt to the dynamic world of recruiting. Away from the office, my time is spent traveling and making memories with family and friends.
Trevor Lyons
Recruiter
Hi, I’m Trevor! I have more than 12 years of experience in the staffing industry. I’m passionate about helping candidates find meaningful opportunities and building strong relationships along the way.
I enjoy collaborating with the Halpin team to improve processes and adapt to the ever-changing staffing landscape. For me, it’s all about connecting the right people with the right roles and making a positive impact on both candidates and clients.
Outside of work, I love traveling, spending time with my family, and hanging out with my dogs.
Rhianna O'Shea
Recruiter
With a background in hospitality, I made the leap into recruiting when I joined Halpin — and I’ve loved every minute of connecting talent with opportunity! I’m passionate about building strong, lasting matches between clients and candidates by working with honesty, integrity, and a people-first approach.
When I’m not recruiting, you can usually find me listening to music, experimenting with photography, making art, getting lost in a good book, or hiking new trails.
Sonia Alonzo
Recruiter
I’m Sonia, a recruiter with Halpin Staffing Services, and I’ll be celebrating two years with the team this October. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2015 and have a professional background in the social services field, which has given me valuable skills that translate seamlessly into the world of recruiting.
My approach is rooted in respect, empathy, and resourcefulness. As an immigrant to the U.S., I grew up interpreting for others and learning the importance of helping people in need. That experience shaped my values and passion for connecting individuals with opportunities, whether it’s employment, information, or meaningful connections.
Outside of work, I’ve been happily married for eight years and am a proud mom of two little ones. In my free time, I enjoy being in nature, going on trips, volunteering in local communities, and trying new things — especially through my work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity.
Gary Herb
Recruiter
With over 20 years of recruiting experience and 10+ years in HR management, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a detail-driven approach to helping candidates and clients succeed. I pride myself on being proactive, staying ahead of deadlines, and fostering open communication and collaboration across the team. My goal is simple: build strong relationships through transparency, follow-through, and client-focused solutions.
Outside of work, you’ll find me spending time with my dog, hitting the golf course, or exploring new restaurants — because great food is always worth the hunt!
Antonio Lyons
Workforce Service Manager
With over a year in the industry, I serve as a Workforce Services Manager at Halpin, bringing over 10 years of experience in customer service and business management. Since joining in October 2025, I pride myself on a professional approach rooted in quality service, ensuring both my clients and associates enjoy a seamless, positive experience. Outside of the office, I am an avid traveler who loves spending quality time with my family and dogs.
Erran Schmidkonz
Recruiter
With 11 years of experience in staffing, I specialize in connecting reliable talent with opportunities across manufacturing and administrative environments, with a strong focus on skilled labor. I understand the pace, expectations, and challenges of these roles—and I know what it takes to make the right match.
My approach is straightforward: clear communication, accessibility, and listening. Clients and candidates don’t get runaround or guesswork—they get honest feedback, timely updates, and a recruiter who stays engaged from first contact through placement.
I build relationships, not transactions. By taking a consultative approach with clients and a direct, transparent approach with candidates, I’m able to consistently align the right people with the right roles—without wasting time on poor fits.
Outside of work, I’m a big animal person with six pets—four cats, a Bloodhound named Moose, and a St. Bernard named Goliath—who keep me busy. I enjoy getting them out to local events whenever I can. I’m also an avid camper and a loyal fan of all Wisconsin sports teams.
Faye Villamor
Talent Acquisition Specialist
I’m Faye, a Talent Acquisition Specialist with Halpin Staffing Services. I truly enjoy the work I do helping people find opportunities where they can grow, and supporting businesses in building strong, capable teams.
My approach to recruiting is shaped by curiosity, empathy, and dedication. I believe that every placement is more than just filling a role, it’s about creating a match that can positively impact both the individual and the organization. That’s what inspires me to keep learning and growing in this field.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading books, traveling to new places, and watching movies to relax and spark new ideas. Each of these hobbies fuels my passion for connecting with people and discovering different perspectives.
At the heart of it all, I see my role as helping to build futures one connection at a time.
Alician Martell
Workforce Service Manager
Hi, I’m Alician! I’ve been in the recruiting world for over 20 years, working in various roles including recruiter, onsite manager, assistant manager, branch manager, and talent acquisition specialist — and I’ve loved every step of the journey. I first worked with Halpin years ago for two years and returned last February, excited to be part of such a dedicated and supportive team again.
Recruiting is truly my passion. I enjoy connecting great people with opportunities and helping businesses build strong, reliable teams. I value hard-working coworkers, a collaborative team environment, and a company that stands behind its people while working together toward shared goals. I’m very hands-on and always eager to jump in wherever I’m needed.
Outside of work, I’m a social person who loves spending time with friends and family. You can often find me enjoying music, going to basketball and baseball games, singing karaoke, attending social events, having bonfires, or relaxing with a good movie.
Janessa Cates
Administrative Ops Manager
Hi, I’m Janessa Cates, the Administrative Ops Manager at Halpin Staffing Services, and I’ve been proud to be part of the Halpin team since August 2021, supporting our operations across Racine and Kenosha.
Since joining Halpin, I’ve grown across multiple roles — starting in office coordination and associate management; and now in Administrative Operations. I’ve built a strong foundation in administrative support and daily operations while continually expanding my skills. Whether it’s keeping tasks on track or ensuring payroll is handled accurately, I take pride in being someone the team can count on.
I value consistency, reliability, and adaptability. With a proactive mindset, I focus on keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes and stepping in wherever I’m needed. I strive to create a positive and supportive work environment while being a dependable team player.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, exploring local events, golfing when I have the chance, and painting pottery. These activities keep me balanced, creative, and motivated both personally and professionally.
Alejandra Rodriguez
Operations Payroll Specialist
Hi, I’m Alejandra, an Operations Payroll Specialist and I’ve been part of the Halpin Staffing Services team since November 2025. I enjoy being someone who helps keep things running smoothly and supports the people around me, whether that’s behind the scenes at work or in everyday life.
I have over six years of experience in administrative and operations roles, and I’m very organized, detail-oriented, and dependable. I’m known for being dependable and collaborative, and I enjoy contributing to a supportive team where people can rely on one another.
When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me baking, especially experimenting with new sourdough recipes, or spending time outdoors. I love traveling and enjoying adventures with my husband and our German Shepherd.
What People Are Saying About Us
I have worked with Halpin in several capacities – temporary assignments, temp-to-hire, payrolling and direct hire – and have been pleased with the results. I was especially happy that they were able to fill a high-level management position as a direct hire. I am confident in the candidates that are submitted, as they have taken the time to understand our culture and our machinery.
We couldn’t have chosen a better partner for our payroll and staffing needs than Halpin. They have been consistent in their performance, while continuing to explore different avenues to improve our communications and processes to better serve our payroll and staffing needs.
Halpin supplies us with 70% of our work force during our busy season and has always came thru when needed. They are very responsive when we have last minute requests. Because of their dedication to make sure we are well staffed we are in our 3rd year partnering with Halpin to help us have another successful season.
I have been with Halpin for over three years. I was leery on using a staffing agency. I didn’t believe I would get a permanent position at a company. I was placed at a warehouse and it was not an easy position at first. I worked hard as I was coached by my recruiter. Later, I was hired into that company. I was permanently laid off due to the company shutting its doors. My recruiter contacted me right away to ask if I needed her to look for another position for me. It wasn’t long and Halpin had placed me again. I have currently been hired into a company that I love. Thanks to Halpin I was able to find my dream job.
I came to Halpin in April 2013 in search of employment. I was a full-time student obtaining my business management degree and looking for experience in the business field. This was my first experience with a “staffing” agency, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. My recruiter did an excellent job of getting to know my professional background and finding the right fit for me. They set me up with an interview at a local organization, and I started with that company in June 2013. Throughout my employment with Halpin, they were very helpful with any questions that I had. Anytime I needed something and emailed them, I got an immediate response. After a probationary period, I was officially hired in at the company as a full-time employee! I am grateful for the opportunity that Halpin provided me, as it was a perfect start to my career!
Halpin has always been a great source for excellent temporary help. Their screening process and understanding of our business is well tuned with our needs in mind. In fact, over 72% of our staff started as temporary help from Halpin and as our company grew we were able to hire them on as full-time employees.
Our company has grown with them over the past 15 years and they’ve been a true asset for our labor needs. Their staff is excellent to work with and they really strive to find the right fit for our company.
Integrity, reliability and excellence are all attributes that solidify our business relationship with Halpin. We have worked together for over 6 years, and have found them to be conscientious, proactive and progressive in their approach to satisfying our needs.
I was looking for a part time flexible job opportunity. Halpin was quickly able to find a great employer match for me. My recruiter was professional and personable. Halpin made the interview and hiring process as simple and pain free as it gets! After two months, I was hired into the company they placed me at. Thank you for the help and wonderful experience.
Halpin partnered with us while we were experiencing a severe staffing shortage. Their staff went above and beyond to fill our open positions with qualified and solid personnel. Halpin has continued to provide outstanding service through the years since then, and we are happy to collaborate with them. If you are looking for a personable and professional staffing service that provides results, call Halpin!
Halpin contacted me back in May of 2010 about a job opportunity. I had never heard of the employer previously and knew nothing about the electronics field. With a bit of apprehension because the position was something completely new, I accepted the role of Systems Assembler. After a year, I was hired in as a permanent employee. I continued to work hard in a few different areas of the plant before getting the opportunity to become a department lead in 2015. In parallel to acquiring this position, I began going to school for electrical engineering using the employer’s tuition reimbursement program. In November of 2018, I applied for and received a Production Supervisor position which is responsible for overseeing more than half of the employer’s manufacturing. I’m also one class away from receiving my electrical engineering degree!
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