MHI Solutions Improving Supply Chain Performance
The people who work at MHI and its WERC division are the gears that keep the association rolling. They ensure MHI continues to be a valuable association and resource for people involved in the industry, and do so with wit, competence and a smile on their face. The goal of this column in MHI Solutions magazine is to give readers a glimpse into what goes on behind the scenes at MHI and “meet” the people who make it a successful hub for everyone involved in the material handling industry.
For this issue, Lindsey Rooney and Wes Goldberg give us a peek into what they do, how they do it, what drives them and what makes them happy after a long, productive day at work.
Lindsey Rooney
Marketing Communications Coordinator
Why were you attracted to MHI and to this industry as a career choice?
I used to write for a medical device trade magazine and really enjoyed the challenge of transforming technical information into engaging content. MHI presents a similar opportunity. Additionally, I love to create digital products, so I was impressed by the range of multimedia that the marketing team produces.
What do you think are the best skills that you bring to your position at MHI?
I have a lot of writing experience and I’m very intellectually curious. I’m also fearless about trying out new technology—at least until I break something.
What’s a goal you have for yourself that you want to accomplish in your role at MHI in the next year?
I want to master more Photoshop features so that I can improve my graphic design capabilities. It’s such a powerful tool. It takes years to become a true Photoshop expert.
What is the last book you read?
“The Sympathizer” by Viet Thanh Nguyen, which is one of my favorites. I read fiction any chance I get.
What is your favorite sports team?
It’s a tie. My husband is a baseball scout for the Toronto Blue Jays, so my family always pulls for the Jays. However, as a University of Michigan graduate, I’m also partial to the Wolverines.
Finish this sentence. On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me…
At one of my kid’s various sporting events, wondering why they schedule sports on Sunday mornings.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would that be?
I would go back to Santa Monica, California. I lived there for several years and feel like I’m still a Californian at heart.
Has anyone ever truly surprised you (in a good way)?
My mother-in-law! In her later years, she has become a very adventurous traveler. She recently planned a trip to the Galapagos for our family, which was amazing.
Wes Goldberg
Market Research Analyst
Why were you attracted to MHI and to this industry as a career choice?
As an economics geek, I was interested in the material handling industry because of its outsized impact on the supply chain and the economy at large.
What gives you the greatest sense of accomplishment (professionally) at the end of the day?
Knowing that MHI members gain value out of stats and surveys that I provide gives me a great sense of accomplishment. In my short time here, I’ve heard from a number of members saying they appreciate the stats program and find a ton of value in the market intelligence they receive.
What was your first impression of this industry, and has it changed since then?
In a word, my first impression of the material handling industry was “antiquated.” Since joining the industry and learning from the members, I’ve found that I had it all wrong. Not only is the industry quite a brilliant example of industry and technology working together, but material handlers are actively using robotics and other innovative means to drive industry forward.
What do you think are the best skills that you bring to your position at MHI?
My attention to detail and analytical skills have helped greatly in my time at MHI.
Do you have any unique skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
I play the guitar and have an affinity for collecting old rock records.
Finish this sentence. On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me…
On the golf course if the weather is nice! If not, I’ll be on my couch waiting for football to come on.
What is the last book you read?
Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.”
What is your favorite sports team?
I follow a number of professional teams across just about every sport, but my heart belongs to Appalachian State Mountaineers football. Go ‘Neers!