Meet Mary Gagne – Director of Business Development
At Aptus Court Reporting, we are proud to highlight the incredible individuals who make our team exceptional. This Women’s History Month, we’re shining the spotlight on Mary Gagne, our 2025 Top Producing Salesperson!
Mary’s journey in the court reporting industry is inspiring—full of passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to her clients and colleagues. Get to know more about her career path, favorite experiences, and fun facts in this exclusive Q&A!
Tell us a little bit about your professional background:
I graduated from Ferris State College in Big Rapids, MI, with a degree in court reporting. My career started in Toledo, OH, where I spent three years handling depositions before deciding to chase my California dream in 1990. I landed in Los Angeles and worked with Sarnoff Court Reporters for a decade as a court reporter.
After years of working long hours, paying quarterly taxes, and managing my own insurance and steno equipment, I was ready for a change. That’s when Business Development started emerging in the court reporting industry, and I made the transition. In 2011, Sarnoff was acquired by Veritext, where I stayed for six years before seeking something new. That led me to Aptus at the end of 2017, where I was thrilled to reunite with many former Sarnoff colleagues.
For over 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible clients and colleagues—many of whom I’ve known for decades. I consider it an absolute joy and honor, and I will always be grateful for the journey.
My mentor told me:
“Everybody has to start somewhere. You don’t have to know what you’re doing—you just have to be willing to learn.”
Song on your current playlist:
“Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest
Your most memorable meal:
During a childhood family vacation, I had lobster for the first time in Maine, and I’ve been a fan ever since!
On your bucket list:
Traveling anywhere I haven’t been yet! An African safari is high on my list.
Recently checked this off my bucket list:
Life got in the way these past few years, but my last big adventure was in 2019 when I traveled to Italy, France, and Spain. I soaked up every moment of that trip!
Best kept secret in your city:
After my divorce, I moved a bit south to Rancho Palos Verdes. While it’s not known for its nightlife, it’s an absolute coastal paradise—chicken soup for the soul.
My Current Obsession (i.e. food, TV show, influencer, trend – it’s okay, we’re not judging 😊 ):
I can’t stop watching 90 Day Fiancé—it’s my guilty pleasure!
Book on your nightstand:
After years of reading transcripts as a court reporter, I don’t read much for leisure. Instead, I’ve become a news junkie and love exploring YouTube channels where I can learn a little bit about a lot of things—kind of like being a court reporter!
Anything else you want people to know about you:
I can water witch! I’m not as skilled as my grandpa or dad, but it’s a pretty cool talent to have.
