Finding Success Through Challenging Growth
Self-driven development requires employees to put themselves in situations to learn and grow their responsibilities. When done rightly, we get to the point of challenging growth in ways that stretch us beyond our comfort zones. Interestingly, this step can be accomplished by anyone who recognizes that we’re capable of accomplishing more than we’re aware of.
A Push Towards Something Greater
Justin Taylor saw this in Whitney Meyer. As he was preparing for his move to Georgia, he suggested that Whitney take his place on the local Advanced Manufacturing Sector Board (AMSB). She had been working with our manufacturing team and became passionate about helping them become more efficient. Justin recognized her passion and desire to grow, which led to the recommendation.
Whitney took the opportunity and immersed herself in the work of the board. Her dedication to helping the board fulfill its initiatives has created additional opportunities that she had not envisioned.
Whitney led one of the board’s projects, to create a portal that increases awareness of the careers within the manufacturing industry, and to better match people to careers. The portal was launched in September and includes manufacturing jobs, the education/training needed for each, and salary ranges from local companies.
Teachers and counselors have been giving the portal raving reviews and are asking for more. The next step for the AMSB is to collaborate with counselors and teachers, to create some curriculum around the jobs in manufacturing, that teachers can use to help set students up for success in a manufacturing career.
Unexpected Opportunity
Recently, Whitney was elected to become the President / Chair of the board. In her words, “Although it is completely out of my comfort zone, I’m excited about the opportunity to grow and expand my skills specifically around leadership, project management, communication and speaking in front of a group of people. I’m also excited to work on our board initiatives and to see the impact we can make in our community.”
Whitney, good job getting out of your comfort zone! You’re creating a positive impact. Justin, good job pushing her!
Challenging Growth
Growth doesn’t happen without struggle. We’re an entrepreneurial organization, which means we’re always looking for opportunity. It starts with what’s in front of you. Great effort, great coaching and a pursuit of growth. What’s over the horizon is unknown, but being curious, decisive and courageous will produce behaviors that will prepare you for whatever appears. Keep pushing yourself and others to grow.