When Kylee Lampen, plant manager and co-owner at Gibraltar, talks about her company’s hiring practices, she doesn’t begin with job descriptions or productivity metrics– she starts with community.
“A big part of our company—one of our values—is to try and create value within the community,” she says. “We’re not a service company where we can interact in traditional ways, but we can support our community by providing jobs and training, where people don’t always get an opportunity.”
A heart for opportunity is what led Gibraltar to partner with 70×7 Life Recovery. Through this partnership, Gibraltar has welcomed several participants into their workforce—providing not just jobs, but a fresh start.
Providing Second Chances
For many individuals coming out of incarceration, finding accepting employment can be a huge challenge. The stigma, background checks, and lack of experience often close doors, but as an employment partner with 70×7, Gibraltar, is working to change that.
“Knowing they have that mentoring and that program to support them really makes a difference,” Kylee says. “It’s not just someone released from prison trying to figure it out alone. It gives me a sense of relief knowing they’re actively participating in something that’s helping them change.”
Hiring for Heart
When asked about the impact of 70×7 participants in the workplace, Kylee doesn’t hesitate to praise what truly matters to her team.
“I can teach someone to put parts in a box. I can teach someone to stamp a part. But you can’t teach character and attitude,” she says. “Showing up every day, showing up early, being available—that’s huge. Having people come in with a smile on their face makes a difference.”
This mindset has helped shape a culture at Gibraltar where growth is measured not just in profits, but in people.
“These might be entry-level positions, but they’re foundational,” Kylee explains. “If someone can get a couple of years of experience and show they’re capable of maintaining a job, they can pursue whatever dream they want. We just want to help them get their foot in the door.”
A Call to Other Employers
For businesses considering hiring through 70×7, Kylee would encourage them to give the program a try.
“It’s not a guarantee. It’s a conversation,” she says. “You’re not signing a year-long contract or required to keep certain roles filled. You can adapt as needed. Sometimes you may have to overlook something on a background check—but if someone is involved with a program that is holding them accountable, it’s worth a look.”
For Kylee and her family, their commitment isn’t just about being good employers—it’s about being good stewards.
“Helping the least of these in the community, being a steward of what Jesus would do—that’s what it’s all about,” she shares. “Being a smaller company, we’re able to give that attention and care to help people grow.”
Interested in becoming a 70×7 employment partner? Learn more about how your business can make a lasting impact at 70x7liferecovery.org.