2026 Mid-Year Salary Guide & Hiring Trends | Hughes Recruiting & Consulting

2026 Mid-Year Salary Guide & Hiring Trends

Request Your Guide

Know What Competitive Pay Looks Like

Fill out the form and we'll email you the 2026 Mid-Year Salary Guide.


2026 Mid-Year Salary Guide & Hiring Trends Inside

As of mid-2026, the quits rate sits well below its 2022 peak, and hiring has slowed to match. Economists call it a low-hire, low-fire market. On paper that looks like stability.

When the market freezes, people stay put for all kinds of reasons. Some are invested, but many are in a holding pattern, which can cost your organizations as people start to leave.

This comprehensive 2026 Salary Guide reveals:

  • Current salary benchmarks for industrial, clerical, and professional roles across the region
  • What a low-hire, low-fire market means for hourly and salaried payroll alike
  • Why a quiet team can read as loyal when it's really just waiting for the market to move
  • How under-market pay turns into a wave of exits, starting with the hardest roles to backfill
  • Retention strategies that reach past base pay, from growth paths to recognition

Backed by current labor data and local market insight, the guide helps you build a pay model that holds up, keeps your best people, and works within your budget.

Request Your Guide

Bobby Shallenberger

P: 815.801.6060

Account Executive- Rockford, Illinois & Beloit, Wisconsin

Bobby Shallenberger is an Account Executive for the Rockford, Illinois and Beloit, Wisconsin branches.  He joined the company in 2025 and brings considerable sales and marketing expertise to Hughes. He has owned several businesses during his career and excels at developing relationships with companies to understand and support their initiatives. 

Angela DeCarlo

P: 815.847.4035

Account Executive – Aurora & Dixon, Illinois

Angela DeCarlo is a personable and driven Account Executive serving the Aurora and Dixon Illinois offices. In her role within the Sales Division, she focuses on building strong client relationships and delivering thoughtful solutions that support business success. With a background in the beauty industry and experience managing a laser hair removal company, Angela brings creativity, adaptability, and a passion for helping others to every interaction.

Her professional journey from esthetician and makeup artist to real estate license holder reflects her resilience and ability to connect with clients on a meaningful level. She takes pride in understanding individual goals and creating lasting partnerships built on trust.

Outside of work, Angela enjoys spending time with her three daughters. She loves cooking, yoga, shopping, gardening, decorating, and attending estate sales. Her ideal day includes a hot yoga class, a spa visit, and dinner with her family.

Erin Butler

P: 815.847.4000

Regional Manager

Erin Butler is a passionate and strategic Regional Manager. In her role within the Staffing Division, she focuses on connecting top talent with the right opportunities while building lasting relationships with clients and candidates. With a strong foundation in business management and leadership, she brings energy, drive, and a commitment to helping others succeed, making her a vital contributor to the team’s success.

A proud graduate of Judson University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Leadership, she combines academic knowledge with a proactive mindset to deliver thoughtful staffing strategies and exceptional service. Her dedication to personal and professional growth fuels her ability to lead with confidence and support meaningful outcomes for clients and colleagues alike.

Outside of work, Erin enjoys working out, visiting coffee shops, and reading. Her ideal day off would include grabbing a coffee, going to lunch with her sisters, and taking a nap before everyone else gets home, a perfect blend of connection, relaxation, and recharge.

Ana Hansen

P: 815.334.9675

Staffing Specialist – Woodstock, Illinois

Ana Hansen is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Woodstock, Illinois office, where she focuses on connecting talented individuals with great job opportunities. Since joining the team in May 2024, Ana has embraced her role with enthusiasm, leveraging her skills to support both clients and candidates in achieving their career goals.
 
Ana is passionate about creating positive experiences in the staffing process and enjoys working closely with her clients to understand their unique needs. She believes that fostering strong relationships is key to successful placements.
 
Outside of work, Ana is a proud mother of five and loves spending quality time with her family. Her favorite pastimes include cooking and visiting the nail salon—her ultimate relaxation spot—where she enjoys indulging in a bit of self-care.

Sandra Ramos

P: 815.334.9675

Regional Manager – Woodstock, Illinois

Sandra Ramos is a Regional Manager based in our Woodstock, Illinois office, where she is committed to matching candidates with rewarding job opportunities. Since joining the team in May 2024, Sandra has leveraged her background in Public Relations from National University College to foster strong connections with both clients and job seekers.

Sandra takes great pride in her role, where she enjoys helping people navigate their career paths and find fulfilling positions. Her favorite aspect of the job is building relationships and contributing to the success of others.

Outside of work, Sandra cherishes quality time with her son and their cat. She loves dancing, cooking, and exploring nature, often enjoying the great outdoors. An avid reader of drama and fiction, she likes action and crime films and is always up for trying new foods.

Michelle Walker

P: 608.362.6100

Senior Staffing Specialist Beloit, Wisconsin

Michelle Walker is a dedicated Senior Staffing Specialist at our Beloit, Wisconsin office, focusing on matching talent with great job opportunities in the area. Since joining the team in July 2023, Michelle has made it her mission to understand the unique needs of both clients and candidates, fostering strong relationships to ensure successful placements.

With an Associate of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin campuses, she combines her educational background with a passion for helping others. Michelle enjoys the dynamic nature of her role, where every day brings the chance to connect with new people and assist them in achieving their career goals.

Outside of work, Michelle loves spending quality time with her family, singing, cooking, and attending concerts and music festivals. On her ideal day, you might find her whipping up a delicious breakfast, tidying up her home, and enjoying lunch or dinner with a friend.

Amarilis Rendon

P: 815.835.3000

Staffing Coordinator – Dixon, Illinois

Amarilis Rendon is a dedicated Staffing Coordinator at our Dixon, Illinois office, where she focuses on supporting Staffing Specialists in the region. Since joining the team in June 2023, she has leveraged her strong interpersonal skills and attention to detail to effectively match candidates with opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations.
 
Amarilis is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and strives to create positive experiences for both clients and candidates. Her commitment to understanding the unique needs of each party ensures that the staffing process is efficient and effective.
 
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Amarilis enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren, which brings her immense joy and fulfillment. On her ideal day off, she loves to relax with a good book or a captivating movie.

Sarah Wypasek

P: 815.835.3000

Staffing Specialist – Dixon, Illinois

Sarah Wypasek is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Dixon, Illinois office, where she focuses on connecting job seekers with exciting opportunities. Since joining the team in April 2022, Sarah has leveraged her education from Sauk Valley Community College to support candidates and clients effectively, ensuring a positive experience throughout the staffing process.
 
Passionate about her role, Sarah thrives on building relationships and helping individuals find their ideal jobs. Her commitment to understanding the needs of both candidates and businesses has made her a valued resource in the Sauk Valley Region.
 
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys spending quality time with her two daughters, as well as her extended family and friends. Her ideal day involves relaxing by the pool or catching up on her favorite true crime shows.

Kalli Halverson

P: 815.232.2000

Staffing Coordinator – Freeport, Illinois & Monroe, Wisconsin

Kalli Halverson is a dedicated Staffing Coordinator based in our Freeport, Illinois office, where she supports Staffing Specialists in both the Freeport and Monroe branches. Since joining the team in March 2023, Kalli has been passionate about helping candidates find fulfilling job opportunities. Her background in General Studies from Highland Community College equips her with a versatile skill set that enhances her role in the staffing division.
 
Kalli finds great joy in seeing candidates leave the office with smiles on their faces and a renewed sense of purpose. Her approachable nature and positive energy make her a favorite among colleagues and clients alike.
 
Outside of work, Kalli enjoys reading, working out, and enjoying meals with friends and family.  Her enthusiasm and spirit bring a good energy to our Freeport office.

Christine Ceroni

P: 815.232.2000

Branch Manager – Freeport, Illinois & Monroe, Wisconsin

Christine Ceroni is a Branch Manager at our Freeport, Illinois, and Monroe, Wisconsin offices. Since joining the team in March 2022, Christine has embraced her role with enthusiasm, leveraging her background to build meaningful connections with candidates and clients. She holds an Associate of Applied Science with an emphasis in Equine Science from Highland Community College, along with certifications in Riding Instruction, Stable Management, and Hoof Care.

Christine’s favorite part of her job is meeting new people and understanding their unique needs. She takes pride in being part of their support system, providing guidance, and fostering a sense of community among her teammates, who she considers family.

Outside of work, Christine enjoys the great outdoors, whether working or relaxing, and treasures cozy moments with her favorite books. Her ideal day includes painting and organizing her home, playing with her dog Piper, and unwinding in the sun.

Kira Jaghama

P: 815.912.1000

Professional Search Manager

Kira Jaghama is a Professional Search Manager based out of our Rockford, Illinois office, specializing in recruiting for Professional, Technical, and Executive roles. Since joining the team in March 2024, Kira has eagerly embraced her role, focusing on building strong partnerships with clients and candidates. Kira finds fulfillment in being a trusted resource for clients looking to fill professional roles.

A graduate of Rock Valley College, Kira brings a dynamic approach to her work, where no two days are alike. She enjoys the variety of her role, from interviewing new candidates to exploring diverse positions. Her dedication to professional growth and relationship-building sets her apart as integral member of the team.

Outside of work, Kira enjoys spending quality time with her family and engaging in activities such as boating and volleyball. Kira’s commitment to excellence and her passion for her work make her a key contributor to our success.

Emily Seagren

P: 815.847.4000

Marketing Manager

Emily Seagren is a Marketing Manager based in our Rockford, Illinois office. Since joining the team in 2023, she has played a key role within the Marketing Division, promoting Hughes and enhancing its presence in local communities. With a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the University of Illinois at Chicago, Emily brings a strong foundation in marketing strategies and creative thinking to her role.

She thrives in the dynamic work environment at Hughes, where she enjoys collaborating with her colleagues on a variety of projects. Emily is passionate about finding innovative ways to communicate our company’s message and drive engagement digitally and within our local communities.

Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with family and friends, travel, and golf.  She is a fan of all things related to beauty and loves going to concerts.  Her travels have taken her to beautiful destinations like Maui, Hawaii, and Barcelona, Spain, enriching her perspective and experiences.

Stepheni Anderson

P: 815.232.2000

Human Resources Specialist

Stepheni Anderson is the Human Resources Specialist at our Dixon, Illinois office, within the Finance & Administration Division. Since joining the company in January 2015, she has become a vital part of the team, starting first as a Branch Manager before transitioning to Operations in 2024. Stepheni takes pride in contributing to both the company’s success and the community through her involvement in various volunteer initiatives.

As an Human Resources Specialist, her role involves supporting key administrative functions using her keen eye for detail. Stepheni’s dedication to organization and her consistent approach to following processes have made her a trusted resource within the division.

Outside of work, Stepheni enjoys spending time with her family and pets, as well as staying active with outdoor activities like camping, kayaking, and hiking. She is a fan of Nicholas Sparks’ books and loves a good comedic movie. Understanding the importance of community involvement, Stepheni serves as the Dixon Rotary Board Secretary on the Dixon Chamber Board of Directors. Her well-rounded approach to work and life makes her a valued member of the team.

Stephanie Richardson

P: 815.835.3000

Regional Director

Stephanie Richardson is the Regional Director overseeing the Dixon, Illinois, and Aurora, Illinois divisions of Hughes. She joined the company in November 2019, bringing over 20 years of experience from her career in the Postal Service.

Stephanie began her journey at Hughes as a Staffing Coordinator for the Dixon office, where she quickly demonstrated her exceptional organizational skills and logistical expertise. Her outstanding contributions led to her promotion to Staffing Specialist in 2021 and subsequently to Regional Manager in 2022.

As Regional Director, Stephanie oversees staffing operations in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, ensuring clients receive top-tier candidates and that the staffing process is efficient and effective. Her extensive background in the Postal Service has equipped her with exceptional organizational, communication, and management skills, which she leverages to lead her team and foster strong client relationships.

Stephanie is deeply committed to delivering exceptional service to both clients and candidates, striving to make every placement a positive and meaningful experience. Her dedication to excellence and her ability to foster a family-like atmosphere within the company make her a trusted leader and a valuable asset to Hughes.

Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys spending time at the pool with friends, cherishing moments with her kids and grandchildren, and participating in activities that bring laughter and joy to her life.

Mariah Leiser, CSP

P: 815.232.2000

VP, Finance & Administration

Mariah Leiser serves as the Vice President of Finance & Administration at Hughes, where she oversees the financial and administrative functions critical to the company’s operations. Her responsibilities include managing payroll, invoicing, workers’ compensation, unemployment, and healthcare processes, ensuring that these functions run smoothly and efficiently to support the company’s financial health and operational effectiveness.

Mariah joined Hughes in 2014 as a Staffing Specialist and quickly demonstrated her ability to fill key roles quickly. Her exceptional performance led to a transition into the accounting department in 2016, where she excelled in handling financial operations. In 2024, Mariah earned her promotion to Vice President Finance & Administration, a role in which she continues to drive financial strategies and administrative excellence.

Mariah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Indiana University and a Master of Business Administration from Columbia College of Missouri. Her diverse educational background and advanced business training provide her with a unique perspective and a well-rounded skill set, enhancing her effectiveness in her current role.

Outside of her professional life, Mariah enjoys time with her family, cooking, gardening, and traveling. She and her husband juggle a busy life with a toddler, two older children, and two goldendoodles.  She is also actively involved in various volunteer organizations, contributing her skills and expertise to support community initiatives like Freeport Art Museum’s Paint the Port event.

Sally Noble, CSP

P: 815.232.2000

VP, Recruiting

Sally Noble joined Hughes in 2012, bringing experience from her a role in the technology industry with Electronic Data Systems (EDS). At EDS, Sally developed her expertise in technical writing and project management skills that have been invaluable to Hughes. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her transition to the role of Vice President of Recruiting has been marked by significant contributions to the growth and efficiency of the staffing operations of the company. 

In her current role, Sally oversees the operations of the professional recruiting division as well as the operations of the Hughes Staffing branch locations, ensuring that the services delivered meet the highest standards of quality and excellence. Sally’s software expertise, significant training knowledge, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a key asset to the entire Hughes team.

Sally is also actively involved in several volunteer organizations, including the Freeport Noon Rotary Club, the Lincoln-Douglas Society, and the One Book One Freeport Committee. Her dedication and diligence foster a collaborative and productive work environment. In addition to time with her husband and children, Sally enjoys reading and gardening in her free time.  She is known to continually seeking opportunities to contribute and grow both personally and professionally.

Vanessa Hughes

P: 815.232.2000

CEO

Vanessa Hughes is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Hughes. A native of Freeport, Vanessa earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Elmhurst University and is currently pursuing a Masters in Finance through an extension program of Harvard University. Her career began at a technology company in the Chicago area before returning to Freeport in 2001 to manage a branch of Workplace Staffing. In 2003, Vanessa purchased the business and has been busy for 21+ years transforming it into what is now Hughes Recruiting & Consulting.

Under Vanessa’s leadership, one local staffing branch office has grown into a regional staffing and recruiting firm recognized for its commitment to excellence and community involvement. She oversees business development, strategic planning, and operational management, ensuring the company’s growth and sustainability.

Vanessa has always been one to give back and currently serves as Chair of Finance on the Executive Committee of Temporary Services Insurance Ltd., President of the Board of Directors for Freeport Art Museum, as well as serving on the advisory board for State Bank Freeport. 

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Vanessa enjoys time with family and friends, reading, and travel. Her business savvy along with her dedication to her team and clients throughout the region has been instrumental in Hughes’ success and positive impact on the community.