My parents were artists. My mother was a painter and my father an architect. Our home was one full of creativity and freedom. As a result, I had a wonderful, enriching childhood. My parents were hard workers and taught me the value of work. But something that my parents did not know to teach me was the value of work experience. I started working at 14 and, aside from a semester of College, a 2 year volunteer mission, and a few layoffs, I have been gainfully employed since. My employment, however, rarely prepared me for a future career, nor did it help me to build a resume. The result of this lack of preparation was me moving back home after my undergraduate degree with the desire to change the world, but no way to show that I could do it. Following a master’s degree and many years of proving myself, I have finally arrived to when I can stand on a strong work history and prove that I can change the world.
Because of this, I have had the opportunity to begin to mentor those who are learning and growing. (Confession: I love mentoring and offering advice. My dream is to semi-retire in a few years and lecture on Supply Chain and Operations at a university.) I believe that guiding others through their career paths not only helps them grow but also enriches my own understanding and perspective. In the world of Supply Chain and Operations management, mentoring can bring great perspective. It bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is well-equipped to handle the complexities of the industry.
One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of gaining experience, even if it means working for free. As I have worked with university students, I have seen how internships – even if they are unpaid – have given these students the opportunity to learn and prove themselves. These experiences were invaluable, providing them with hands-on knowledge and insights that no classroom could offer. Growing up, I did not have the financial ability nor the understanding to seek out these opportunities. Because of the lack of my experience it took me years to catch up.
In today’s competitive job market, practical experience and personal connections are often the differentiator. It’s not just about what you know, but who you know and what you can do. By taking on various roles, even unpaid ones, you can develop a robust skill set and a strong work ethic. These opportunities allow you to learn from seasoned professionals, understand industry dynamics, and build a portfolio of real-world achievements. You also build real-life connections with people who will often go to bat for you when the time comes for you to look for a career.
In my daily job and my consulting work, I apply the principles that I have learned in every situation. Whether it’s optimizing supply chain processes, implementing lean methodologies, or developing strategic plans, the foundation of my approach is built on the experiences and lessons I’ve gathered over the years. When we see our day-to-day interactions as opportunities to teach those who work for us or share our knowledge with others, we empower those around us with the knowledge and tools they need for sustained success.
I am grateful for the diverse experiences that have shaped me. From my artistic upbringing to the varied roles I’ve held, each chapter has contributed to my growth. Today, I stand ready to help others navigate their paths, confident in the belief that together, we can indeed change the world.
