While I hold college degrees and have military experience, the experiences that have shaped me most came from hands-on problem-solving and learning from real-world challenges. Studying thought leaders like Dale Carnegie, Jeffrey Liker, and Patrick Lencioni, combined with working directly in a plant environment, taught me far more about Lean principles and operational excellence than classrooms ever could. True understanding comes when knowledge meets action, and solutions must be created in the moment.
I’ve learned that real growth comes from action, reflection, and continuous improvement. Knowledge alone isn’t enough—applying it, learning from mistakes, and iterating constantly is what drives mastery. Small, consistent improvements compound over time into meaningful results, which is the heart of Lean thinking.
Equally important is respect for people. Whether in the plant, in leadership, or in daily interactions, recognizing the value of others fosters trust, collaboration, and sustainable results. Discipline, integrity, and respect form the foundation of both personal and organizational success.
If I could give my younger self—or anyone starting out—one piece of advice, it would be simple: get to work immediately, read constantly, build a vision, and maintain a strong work ethic. Apply what you learn, reflect on your experiences, and always look for ways to improve. That combination of practical knowledge, discipline, and respect for people opens doors far beyond titles, credentials, or formal education.
My focus has always been on solving problems, learning from experience, and helping teams create results that matter. Practical knowledge, applied with discipline and respect, is what drives sustainable success. In Lean environments, as in life, it’s not the titles you hold or the degrees you earn—it’s your ability to apply knowledge, continuously improve, and work effectively with others that creates lasting impact.