Do you remember what you were doing 40 years ago? Are you even 40? CMC’s own Patti Cagide, the New Jersey office manager, started working at CMC 40 years ago this month back when the original Karate Kid movie was in theaters and Prince’s “When Doves Cry” ruled the radio.
We’ve asked Patti what CMC was like back then and how much it’s changed. Take a minute to learn about CMC from someone who’s been here (almost) the entire time. It’s amazing to see where we started and how far we’ve come.
Please provide some quick background about yourself.
I was born in Newark, N.J., and lived there my entire life until I married my high school sweetheart. After a couple of years of marriage, we moved to Union, N.J., where I raised my kids and still live today. I guess you could say I’m loyal to Jersey. Once I find a good spot, I stick with it.
What is your favorite hobby or activity?
I wouldn’t call it a hobby exactly, but I love shopping and party planning. Honestly, if there’s an excuse to celebrate, I’m all in. And, I’ll probably pick up a cute outfit for the occasion while I’m at it!
You’ve been with CMC for a long time. What first made you join CMC? What was it like back then? Where was the office?
My first job was as a secretary at a car dealership, but I quickly realized car sales weren’t my thing. In 1984, one of my co-workers at the dealership knew I was looking for something different. His girlfriend had just started at CMC and suggested I interview. So, I did—on a cardboard box, no less! CMC had just set up shop in New Jersey to handle commercial audits for utilities, and they hired me on the spot for an admin role.
Shortly after starting, I met Doris Ikle (CMC’s founder) for the first time. She was tiny, smart and just the sweetest person. She told me she loved my personality—and that my earrings, dress and shoes all matched. That sealed the deal.
The first office was a tiny space in Millburn, N.J. It was just me, an office manager, a program manager and eight technicians who covered the entire state. About five years later, we moved to Union, then grew and moved several more times—Princeton Junction, Plainsboro, Cranbury—and now we’re in Hamilton. CMC has grown up a lot, but I’ll never forget those early days when we had to make it work with a lot of heart and very few resources.
In your eyes, how has CMC changed?
CMC may have grown—bigger contracts, more employees, fancier offices—but at its core, it still feels like family. Watching the company grow has been amazing, but what’s just as special is seeing employees grow with it. Even though I’ve been here the longest, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside people who’ve been here 15 years or more, and it’s incredible to see how we’ve all evolved together.
Can you tell new staff anything that can help guide them or better know/relate to the company?
Take advantage of the knowledge around you. CMC is filled with smart, talented people, and there’s always something new to learn if you’re open to it. Collaboration is a big part of what makes this company special, so don’t be afraid to ask questions or share ideas.
What do you do for fun? Do you have any hidden talents or interests?
I’ve been friends with my high school girlfriends for decades. There are five of us, and we make it a point to get together every quarter to hang out, tell stories and laugh until our sides hurt.
As for interests, anyone who knows me knows I love the beach. If I’m taking a day off, you can bet I’ll be in Asbury Park, N.J., soaking up the sun and the ocean breeze.
Do you have any plans for the next few months, holidays, etc?
The holidays are my favorite time of year because I get to spend them with my family. We have traditions that my kids insist on keeping, even as adults, and that warms my heart. It’s not a holiday without those familiar rituals, and I love that they still want to share them with me.