Perspective: A Co-op Journey

When I strive to be my very best each day, it means self-improvement by acting with kindness, empathy, and humility.??

At a young age, my parents instilled the values of hard work and serving others. A week out of high school, I started a Co-op with Magna Seating working six months a year while attending Kettering University. There were two mentors earlier on in my career that steered me on a good path.??

My first connection at Magna was Foster Vandoren, who interviewed and hired me. His mentorship encouraged an environment where I could listen, engage, and contribute meaningfully. I learned a positive attitude was key to taking initiative and being ready when the next opportunity arose.??

Post-college I spent time in the Peace Corps, where I stayed in Tanzania teaching math at an all-girls secondary school. Another mentor, Jeff Lambert, wrote me a letter of recommendation to enter the role. It was an experience that both challenged and revolutionized my mind. I’ll always remember that time in my life.??

Upon returning to Magna, I began supporting projects and eventually managing teams. There were many more mentors over the years.?? I connected with different leaders, growing through exposure to their distinct management styles. Through observing others, I learned there’s not one right way to approach and solve a problem. Perspective is everything. It’s essential to put myself in others’ shoes because everyone comes into a job, into life, with different experiences. Everyone has something to bring to the table.??

I went overseas again, this time as an ex-pat working for Magna Seating in Europe. There, I reconnected with Jeff, and it was as if time didn't pass. From his briefcase he showed me a hard copy of the letter of recommendation written years prior. This is the “power of Magna.” The power of genuine connections forms the foundation of our employee network, making it truly special.??

To this day, I operate in a spirit of gratitude in my position as Global Vice President of Business Development. My job is to secure future business for Magna Seating. My decisions impact the growth of the company for years to come. It’s fulfilling to contribute to the advancement of our company. I couldn’t ask for more as Magna believed in and invested in me from the very start.??

A strong work ethic has always been my driving force. Reflecting on the course of my career, no matter the environment I was in, I adapted by putting in the time and effort to sharpen my character. I urge those in their earliest career years to lean into their strengths. For each situation you face, learn to temper that skill in an appropriate fashion. Think about balance, not absolutes, as you navigate life. Whether your career takes you to another country or another department, you have the power to positively influence the environment around you. Always remain curious, always push with kindness, and remain thankful for the connections you make along the way.??