Lean Systems training improves Auburn career development operations
Published: Jan 15, 2026 9:00 AM
By Carla Nelson
Lean Systems principles typically associated with manufacturing floors and engineering environments are delivering improvements within Auburn University’s own operations, thanks to recent industry training completed by the Office of Career Development and Corporate Relations (CDCR).
The training was inspired by Apryl Mullins, director of Corporate Relations for CDCR, who previously participated in Auburn University’s Lean Systems course through the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. The experience reshaped how she approached problem-solving, process improvement and collaboration, insights she later brought to her entire team.
“When I stepped into the corporate relations role, I was confident in relationship-building, but my liberal arts background meant I didn’t always understand engineering concepts or know the right questions to ask,” Mullins said. “As I worked more closely with companies designing and building products, I wanted to better understand their processes so Auburn could more effectively support their needs.”
Mullins said the course’s emphasis on data-driven decision-making and structured problem-solving left a lasting impact, particularly the DMAIC framework (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) and the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle.
“Lean gave me the discipline to define the current state using data, identify root causes through the ‘five whys’ and build processes that are sustainable,” she said. “Execution has always been a strength of mine, but Lean added structure that made that execution more effective.”
Another principle that resonated deeply was the concept of “going to the Gemba,” or observing work where it happens.
“Lean reinforces respect for people,” Mullins said. “Those closest to the work understand the process best. That realization fundamentally changed how I collaborate with colleagues.”
Motivated by her own experience, Mullins organized Lean Systems industry training for the entire CDCR staff, including career coaching, corporate relations and career content and development teams. The training took place in the Tiger Motors Lab, also known as the LEGO Lab.
“I truly believe Lean has the power to transform how we think about and carry out our responsibilities,” she said. “If more units across campus embraced these principles, Auburn would be even stronger and more effective in serving students.”
Led by Tom Devall, director of auto manufacturing initiatives, Tiger Motors regularly offers Lean training to industry, including organizations such as Hartzell Engine Technologies and the U.S. Air Force’s Air University, but this is the first time the lab has opened its doors to a College of Engineering unit.
Following the training, CDCR targeted several key processes for improvement, including co-op and internship coordination, mock interview check-in procedures, data and content curation and alignment of staff roles with team and university-wide strategic goals.
As a result, the office has implemented multiple operational improvements. These include more effective use of Salesforce for reporting and automation, transitioning mock interview check-ins to Career Forge for faster and more accurate data transfer, streamlining data collection for the office’s annual report and clearly defining ownership of processes across teams.
“We now have clearer processes, better data and a stronger understanding of how each role contributes to the bigger picture,” Mullins said. “That clarity allows us to work more efficiently and with greater impact.”
Media Contact: , carla@auburn.edu, 334-844-1404
As a result of the Lean training, the Office of Career Development and Corporate Relations has implemented multiple operational improvements.
