Purpose at Every Stage: Exploring Meaningful Work in Greater Des Moines

One year ago, I visited Greater Des Moines (DSM) for the first time, unsure if I would ever come back. At the time, it felt like just another destination to visit a friend, but that trip turned out to be more meaningful than I expected.

During my stay, I had the opportunity to tour a thriving business, explore the community and see the city’s growth firsthand. What began as a casual visit quietly sparked a deeper interest in both the job opportunities and the city itself.

The initial experience stayed with me, and by the fall of 2024, I accepted a summer internship in DSM. I was excited — but also a little unsure. Since my visit, I had heard a lot about how DSM was growing economically, especially the job market for young professionals. I was hoping to learn what corporate culture really looked like, grow professionally, and see if this kind of environment could feel like a fit for me long-term. I’d heard a lot of buzzwords about “purpose-driven work,” but I didn’t really know what that looked like in practice. Was it just about liking your job? Was it tied to a company’s mission? Or was it something more personal?

I didn’t come in with all the answers. But I was curious.

So, over the course of my internship, I started asking questions — not just about my own role, but about how others found meaning in theirs. I spoke with people at different stages of their careers, from fellow interns to long-time professionals, to understand how purpose shows up in the workplace — and why it matters.

What I found was that purpose isn’t one-size-fits-all. It can look like mentorship, growth, trust or simply feeling like you belong. In DSM, I saw how companies are creating space for all of that.

Starting Out: Finding Purpose as an Intern

I began with someone in a position similar to mine — a fellow intern navigating her first corporate experience.

For Zoe Marckmann, a marketing intern, purpose started with feeling like she belonged. She was initially drawn to Athene because of its commitment to giving back — but what really stood out was how welcomed she felt from day one.

“The energy in my first few weeks was amazing. Everyone genuinely wanted me to succeed — they weren’t just showing me the ropes; they were opening doors.”

Zoe talked about being encouraged to ask questions, explore new areas and connect with mentors who supported her beyond her assigned projects. That sense of inclusion made her feel like she mattered.

Her story made me reflect on my own first few weeks — how much it meant when someone took the time to explain a process or invited me to sit in on a meeting. It reminded me that purpose can begin with something as simple as being seen and supported.

The First Full-Time Role: Gaining Trust and Clarity

After speaking with Zoe, I wanted to know what happens when that internship becomes a full-time role. Next I spoke with Jordan Anderson, who had recently transitioned from an actuarial intern to full-time employee as an actuarial associate. His story helped me understand how purpose evolves with responsibility.

“At first, I applied to a lot of places without knowing what I really wanted. But over time, my work started to matter because I could see how it connected to something bigger.”

He also described how being invited on projects that challenged him, being supported through steep learning curves, and being part of a team that values people over titles gave him a sense of confidence and ownership. He wasn’t just doing tasks; he was contributing.

“The biggest thing I’ve learned is that purpose comes from being trusted. Even when the work is hard, you know you’re not doing it alone.”

Hearing that made me think about the moments I’ve been given more responsibility — and how those moments, while intimidating, also made me feel capable and valued.

Changing Paths: Discovering Purpose in a New Career

While Zoe and Jordan entered the corporate world early, I was curious what it looks like to shift into it from a different path. That’s what led me to Sandibel Duarte, who had originally planned to become a teacher.

“I remember crying because I didn’t know what to choose. I loved teaching, but I also saw this role as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Now, she leads training programs and community projects. For her, purpose isn’t just something she experiences, it’s something she helps create.

“What motivates me most is watching people grow — knowing I had a hand in that.” Sandibel’s story reminded me that purpose can change over time. It’s not always about sticking to one plan — it’s about finding new ways to make an impact.

Staying the Course: Building Purpose Over a Decade

Sandibel’s story inspired me to hear from someone who has spent years growing their career in the corporate world.

Finally, I spoke with Ken Ringenberg, VP US Tax, who has spent over a decade growing his career. His perspective showed me how purpose can be steady and long-lasting.

“We started with just over 100 employees. Now we’re around 2,000 — but the people have stayed consistently high performing. That kind of environment makes you want to stay.”

Ken talked about the importance of being surrounded by smart, driven people — and having leaders who listen. For him, purpose isn’t just about the work itself, but the culture that supports it.

“They continue to hire the best, and those are the people you want to work with. That makes coming to work meaningful.”

His story helped me see that purpose doesn’t have to be loud. Sometimes it’s steady, built over years of shared goals, mutual respect and doing work that matters with people who care.

What I Found in Des Moines: Purpose in Action

After all these conversations, I’ve realized that purpose-driven work isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about moments that make you feel like you are growing, contributing and connecting.

In DSM, I have seen how companies are building environments that support that kind of purpose — whether you’re just starting out or 10 years in. And for me, that’s what made this internship more than just a summer job.

Driving across the country for this internship felt like a risk, but after hearing these stories and witnessing how people grow, lead and support one another here, I can confidently say — it was worth every mile.

Learn more at athene.com/careers.

Job opportunities and career resources are abundant in Greater Des Moines (DSM). Whether you're looking to find an internship, a job, develop professionally or grow as a student, we have the resources to help you thrive.