Age: 28.
First plastics job? Working at the DuPont experimental station in Delaware, moving pallets of materials. I found it very interesting how many types of plastics and additives there were.
Greatest achievement? Making the systems — SAP modules, CRM database management, our quoting system (and more) — functional so that we can operate more efficiently, which increases productivity at all levels.
Biggest failure and what it taught you? Giving up too early in my musical career. Shortly after I left the band, the members started new, and they later signed to a small record label. It taught me that giving up should never be an option. Facing the question of “what if?” is something I'll take to the grave for sure.
What is your current challenge at work? Making sure all of the operations I look after run smoothly. I wear multiple hats in the company. I definitely could not do it without the amazing team we have here.
What emerging technology or market most interests you? I really enjoy reading about the polymers that are self healing or used in automotive performance since I'm a car enthusiast.
What about the plastics industry surprises you? It surprises me that more people are not interested in a career in the industry. If you have a hobby I guarantee you it involves plastic from the tools you touch, equipment used, etc. There is nothing like working and knowing that what you do supports something that you enjoy, and improves the quality of life.
If you were CEO what would you do first? My boss recently asked me the same thing. I would ask every employee to write down where they want to be in five years, and what their dream job would be. For outstanding performing employees, I would put them on the path to mix their dream job (within reason) with what they are doing now.
Who is your mentor, or someone you look up to? My boss, Tony Firth, president of Negri Bossi North America. And also David Knight in spare parts and engineering. Machinery and robots can be overwhelming, and David has taught me so much and always takes the time to explain things.
What job do you really want to have in the future? Something along the operations improvement side. I like to look at a current process and see how it can be improved through different systems and integrations.
What do you do to relax? I like the occasional glass of whiskey, cigars, going to the beach, getting in my sports car and driving to destinations unknown. I also like picking up the guitar and learning new songs.
