One of the most inspiring parts of the Workday ecosystem is how many career paths lead here. In my recent conversation with Cara Carroll, we explored how her journey from marketing intern to HR generalist, recruiter, and eventually Workday specialist unfolded — and what others can learn from her path.

A recurring theme was the power of saying “yes” to new opportunities. Cara didn’t set out to work in HR or technology, but each unexpected pivot opened doors to new skills and career growth. That willingness to embrace the unknown eventually led her to supporting Workday full-time.

Functional experience proved to be a huge advantage. Having worked as a recruiter, Cara brought real-world insight into her support role. She understood why certain processes mattered and how employees interacted with the system. For those in HR or finance today, that functional knowledge is a strong foundation for a transition into Workday support.

Cara also emphasized the variety of work models available in the ecosystem — from permanent employee roles to consulting and contracting. Each comes with trade-offs, and the right choice depends on where you are in your career and what kind of experience you want to gain.

Most of all, her story underscored the importance of curiosity, community, and continuous learning. Whether through user groups, sandbox exploration, or certifications, there are countless ways to grow in this space.

If you’re considering your next step in the Workday world, Cara’s journey offers both encouragement and practical guidance. To hear her full story — including tips for breaking into Workday, reflections on global tenants, and why failing forward matters — tune in to the full episode of Workday Gold.