Emmanuel Myers began his career working at an automotive battery manufacturing plant, but as he gained more experience, he found a desire to do more design work. Looking for work in a more comfortable and challenging environment, Myers was contacted by a recruiter about an opportunity to work at Rovema North America in Atlanta. During his time at the OEM, Myers has had the opportunity to travel and work with some of the best minds in the company, as well as learning different aspects of the machine builder’s business. He enjoys working on projects outside of the usual scope and learning from his peers who have decades of experience. He is also helping the OEM innovate by focusing on the methodology and programming behind cutting edge equipment.
Since joining the packaging industry, what are some interesting things you’ve learned?
The most intriguing and surprising thing about this industry to me is the complexity involved in packaging a product. Placing a product in a bag and placing that bag in a box seemed simple to me in concept before entering this industry. But since then, I have learned how challenging the application of that simple concept can be.
What are some challenges you face, and how do you adapt?
Some of the obstacles are communicating effectively, dealing with the pressure to deliver and meet deadlines, and managing my time. Listening to feedback and adjusting how I communicate with others over time helped me deliver messages more effectively. To manage my time better and meet deadlines, I began using daily detailed schedules, which I updated at the beginning and end of each day. As with most things, practice and repetition helped strengthen my weaknesses and overcome obstacles.
Are there any industry trends currently top of mind?
One particular trend I have been keeping my eye on is the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT gives devices the ability to transfer detailed status data over the network, and the data collected can be analyzed and used to increase equipment reliability and overall efficiency.
What does winning this award mean to you?
To me, this award means my company recognizes my efforts to be better at my job each day, my contribution to the company’s growing success, and my potential as a future leader.
As an emerging leader, what is next for you?
I want to continue honing my craft, leading more projects, and contributing to the growth of the company.
How can the manufacturing industry do a better job of promoting growth among younger employees?
I think the manufacturing industry can support the growth of emerging leaders by pushing innovation, introducing new technologies, showing interest in their career development, and keeping an open mind to new methods.
