I’ve been fascinated by electricity and how products and systems work since childhood. I parlayed that interest into an electrical engineering technology degree and a career in technical product management, sales management, sales engineering, and supplier programs. Through diverse roles in the lighting and electrical industry, I have been able to carefully sustain internal and external relationships. With persistence and an even-keeled approach, I’ve implemented new and innovative product offerings and programs, added new suppliers and positioned meaningful product portfolios. With formal Six Sigma and project management training, I anticipate obstacles, pull resources into a unified team, and get stakeholders on-board to broker win-win situations. This expertise has served me well as I navigate relationships with suppliers and customers alike while developing business and product strategies that position companies for continued growth.I enjoy coaching team members to excel as both technical professionals and leaders. I encourage team members to strengthen their understanding of the competitive landscape and take advantage of teachable moments to help transfer product and industry knowledge. My commitment to true teamwork stems from the feeling of accomplishment I had playing street hockey with an informal group of neighborhood kids. We scrounged up equipment and excelled without a coach, ref, or formal organization. I’ve worked on similarly great teams throughout my career—those that bring their skills, expertise, and dedication to solve organizational problems and deliver well-manufactured products.And if you ever want to hear a story about the importance of careful analysis and preparation, ask me why they call me ‘Sparky.’ Hint: it’s not because of my extensive experience in the lighting business or my electrical engineering technology degree.