About HR Nerd

About HR Nerd

Smart HR solutions, simplified.

Get expert support to streamline processes, ensure compliance, and drive business success.

HR Expertise You Can Trust

Meet The Nerds

woman sitting at desk

Emily Farmer

Founder & Chief Nerd Officer  

Hi, I’m Emily—founder of HR Nerd and your go-to fractional HR partner for growing tech teams.

With over a decade of experience in HR strategy, compliance, and operations, I help startups and small businesses build solid people foundations without the overhead of a full-time HR hire. My specialty? Optimizing payroll systems so businesses get the full benefit of the software they’re already paying for—while making their people processes more efficient, accurate, and scalable.

Before launching HR Nerd, I worked for two national payroll companies, supporting hundreds of small businesses through their implementations. Again and again, I saw teams struggle once the initial setup was over—because payroll providers rarely stick around to make sure the system actually fits your workflows. That gap between technical setup and real operational support is what inspired me to create HR Nerd.

I earned my Business Management degree in Human Resources from Kennesaw State University, and I’ve spent my career helping small and medium sized businesses turn good intentions into real HR structure.

When I’m not troubleshooting a payroll report or streamlining onboarding workflows, you’ll find me chasing after my two kids and sneaking in a moment of calm (ideally with coffee in hand).

Let’s build the kind of workplace your team wants to stay and grow in.

Katherine

Katherine Blexrude

HR Consultant & Business Development   

Hi, I’m Katherine Blexrude — an HR consultant who’s all about helping companies grow through their people. With a degree in Psychology and a minor in Business from Colorado State University, I’ve always been fascinated by what makes teams tick. I turn that curiosity into action by helping organizations hire smarter, onboard better, and create workplaces where employees actually want to stay.I’ve built training programs, led recruitment efforts, and conducted exit interviews that spark real change (and a few “aha!” moments along the way). My goal? To make HR feel less like a department and more like the heartbeat of a company. I truly believe that people are every company’s greatest advantage—and love proving it every day. I like to blend the science of human behavior with the art of strategic people management. Whether it’s designing dynamic training programs, refining recruitment strategies, or transforming onboarding into an experience (not just a checklist), I love to help organizations build teams that thrive.Known for bringing equal parts data and heart to the table, I am passionate about creating workplaces where employees feel valued, inspired, and empowered to do their best work. When not crafting culture strategies or leading workshops, you can find me enjoying time with my husband and two boys, cheering on the Chargers, or hunting down the best local breakfast spot for some quality one on one time.

Michelle

Michelle Cornelius, SHRM – CP, PHR

HR Consultant

Michelle is an experienced Human Resources Professional with over 20 years of proven success.  Her human resources experience has spanned retail, manufacturing, agriculture, restaurant, human services, healthcare, and long-term care.  Throughout Michelle‘s career, she has held many roles ranging from Recruiter, Trainer, Generalist, Director and Vice President of Human Resources.
Michelle graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in psychology.  Michelle also holds her SHRM-CP and HRCI-PHR certifications in the field of human resources.
Michelle‘s approach to HR is anchored in her personal philosophy that is 3-prong:  Advocate for both employees and employer; Gatekeeper of rules, regulations and laws; and a Resource to all.  Michelle is committed to be seen as the Friendly Neighborhood HR department.
 
On a personal note, Michelle and her husband recently moved to southern Missouri and purchased a septic and excavating company.  She has 2 adult children, Zach who resides in Manhattan, and Cam who resides in Japan.  She also is a dog mom to Lola and Charlie.
Michelle is excited to share her knowledge and experiences through her new role as a consultant to small and growing businesses.

Stacey Dennis, SHRM – SCP, ELI-MP

HR Consultant

Stacey Dennis is a seasoned HR strategist with deep multi-state experience supporting small businesses, with a strong focus on advertising and creative agencies. She specializes in working with HR Departments of One and agency leaders navigating fast growth, distributed teams and multi-state compliance without killing momentum or culture. Her background also includes manufacturing, healthcare, technology and merger and acquisition work, supporting organizations through scaling, integration and change. As a leadership coach and business strategist, Stacey helps agency leaders communicate with clarity, build resilient teams and make confident people decisions. She holds a degree in Human Resources from Ball State University and has advised startups, small businesses and private equity-backed firms across the country.

Our Mission

Empowering Businesses with Smarter HR Solutions

Our mission is to simplify payroll and HR for growing teams with smart systems and nerd-level precision—always guided by the Golden Rule and a belief that treating people right is the smartest strategy of all.

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person signing contract and paperwork

Our Approach & Commitment

HR Solutions Designed for Your Success

We take a proactive and personalized approach to HR. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions—our services are tailored to fit your unique business needs. With a focus on efficiency, compliance, and strategic growth, we are committed to providing reliable, scalable, and cost-effective HR support.

  • A dedicated partner invested in your long-term success.
  • Expert guidance to ensure compliance and streamline HR processes.
  • Flexible, subscription-based HR services that adapt to your business needs.