For Jen Macias-Wetzel, owner of Inspired Closets KC, providing organized, functional spaces for her clients is just one part of her mission. She is equally dedicated to creating an environment where she and her employees can grow, learn and thrive.
Jen’s commitment to personal development stems from her own journey.
Growing up in a blue-collar family, the norm was to enter the workforce immediately after high school. “College wasn't something that was in the cards for me at the time,” Jen explains. “The expectation was to get a job, start earning a living.” And that's exactly what she did. She built a successful career in marketing and business development, primarily in the architectural and multi-family development sectors, all while raising three sons.
But education stayed implanted in the back of her mind. “It has always been a source of angst, wishful thinking,” she says. After years of balancing work and family life, she decided to go back to school. This May, after nearly 29 years, that long-held dream will become a reality when she graduates with a degree in business administration and marketing.
Jen’s experience has inspired a deep commitment to making higher education accessible for future generations of her family. “I want my future grandchildren to have the opportunities I didn’t have. I want to make sure they have the resources to pursue their dreams,” Jen says.
Living by the motto, “To walk a mile, you have to take a first step,” Jen has already set her next personal challenge. “I’m half Mexican, but I don’t speak Spanish. I want to learn to be fluent and honor that heritage.”
Jen’s passion for growth is deeply imbedded in the culture she is building at Inspired Closets KC. “Seeing my team succeed is one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” she says. “From our oƯice manager to our designers to our installation team, they are always learning, always improving. I love when they come to me with new ideas. It means we’ve created an environment where they feel comfortable sharing and innovating.”
One of the team’s newest members is designer Alexis Cross, who serves the Lee’s Summit area for Inspired Closets KC. Under Jen’s mentorship, Alexis has joined the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce and is learning the importance of networking and professional development. “She’s incredibly driven,” Jen shares. “Her energy, tenacity and creativity are inspiring, and she brings such a positive presence to our team.”
Alexis says that Jen has laid the foundation for her to be successful. “It all starts with dedicated client interfacing and being part of a team. Jen is a strong leader who will support us every step of the way. She encourages us to build the business independently, all while providing the resources for growth.”
“Working for Jen and Inspired Closets KC is everything I have ever wanted and more. It has opened my eyes to the idea of unlimited possibilities,” Alexis proudly states.
The entire team has taken to prioritizing community involvement, under Jen’s tutelage. In April, the women of Inspired Closets KC joined forces with Habitat for Humanity to help build a house. Jen sees it as “an important opportunity—it’s good for business, it’s good for your personal self and it’s good for the employees’ morale.” Alexis understands that each new experience is helping her build her confidence and cultivating a deeper commitment to community outreach. She says, “I am just starting to dip my toes in the water, but I am learning how impactful it can be talking to people and being involved.”
Jen is focused on fostering a workplace where employees feel valued and empowered. She says, “I want to be the kind of boss I always wish I had. A leader who supports and encourages their team, who provides opportunities for learning and development. Growth is magical, and I want to share that magic with my team.”
Jen Macias-Wetzel is building more than a business—she is establishing a culture of growth, mentorship, and community engagement. Her journey serves as an inspiration, proving that it’s never too late to pursue a dream or take the first step toward something new. Through Inspired Closets KC, she is not only creating organized spaces but also opportunities for those around her to grow, thrive, and give back.