Katlyn Gandy

Process Improvement Analyst

kgandy@american-usa.com

What is your mission as a company?

We at AMERICAN are committed to providing vital products to society. We believe in doing things the right way by treating our customers, employees, and communities the way we want to be treated.

 

What is your company culture?

AMERICAN has a unique and caring culture stemming from our Golden Rule Business philosophy – doing things The Right Way. We have a commitment to safety, our community, faith, and family. For more than a century, AMERICAN has committed to exceeding customer expectations, caring for employees, and building strong communities.

 

What are your recommendations for seeking mentorship and support in the workplace

Applying for an internship or co-op position provides students with the opportunity to receive hands-on work experience in their field of study. These positions also give students the opportunity to connect with employees and learn more about the company. Building a network and capitalizing on those relationships will build a strong support group at work and open the door to form mentorships. Get to know the people that you are working with and do not be afraid to ask for help. Actively listen and ask questions to those that teach you. Show that you are interested, willing, and ready to learn, and others will invest in you.

 

How do I ask for help as a professional?

Troubleshoot the problem at hand first, find out “Where is the problem coming from?”. Show that you have tried potential solutions. Consider the timing that you ask for help and the individual you ask. Be polite. Understand that we are all human and need to lean on others for help at times.

 

What is one piece of advice that you would give to your college-aged self?

Network, get involved and start making connections. Sometimes it is not about what you know, but who you know.

 

How can my Auburn Engineering education best prepare me for the world of work?

The knowledge, skills, experience, and abilities you gain throughout your Auburn Education will allow you to feel more comfortable and thrive in an engineering role. Additionally, working with classmates or on teams throughout school will sharpen your communication and problem-solving skills used in the workforce.

 

If you were to hire someone to work with you today, what factors would be most important in your hiring decision and why?

Being a team player, having a positive attitude, and expressing willingness to "jump in" would be the most important. Showing that you are willing to help the team trickles down to the benefit of the company. Displaying a positive attitude and willingness to jump in shows initiative, confidence, and leadership.

 

What types of experiences, paid employment, or otherwise, would you most strongly recommend?

Academic groups in college are a great way to begin networking and building a support system. Applying for internship or co-op opportunities with companies provides the opportunity to develop hands-on experience in the workforce and learn more in your field of study. Internship and Co-op opportunities are also a great way to develop a mentor/mentee relationship with coworkers or peers.

 

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