YPN Spotlight: Kyle Little
Learn about Kyle Little’s impact on the future of Material Handling through YPN.
Since it’s start in 2021, MHI’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) has provided a space for emerging leaders to connect, learn, and share insights. It’s people like Kyle who have been integral to the growth and success of YPN.
Kyle joined YPN right from the beginning, motivated by the opportunity to network with peers in similar career stages, learn from seasoned industry mentors, and contribute to the industry’s future direction. For Kyle, YPN represented a lower barrier to entry for networking, offering a welcoming environment to engage with others who share the same passion for advancing material handling.
At MHI’s YPN, the mission is to engage and develop the next generation of leaders in the material handling industry. Whether through webinars, coffee chats, book clubs, and several other virtual/in-person events, YPN fosters collaboration, promotes innovation, and helps young professionals gain invaluable experience.
YPN Spotlight Q&A
Kyle Little, Team Leader – Key Accounts at Leuze
How long have you been a part of YPN?
Since inception in 2021/2022 (can’t remember when we started it!)
What motivated you to get involved in YPN?
I wanted to connect with industry peers that are in similar career positions. As well as learn from mentors and listen to what the needs are of the industry to create paths for change and growth. And lower barrier to entry to networking.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved in YPN?
Jump in, get involved, talk, learn, engage.
What is special about the material handling industry that gets you excited about your future career?
It is currently an industry that has long been stagnant in growth for technology. Now we are starting to see it become one of the most advanced industries in the world with no end in sight for development and technology. It solves real world problems that can be highly complex.
Which topics – pertaining to our industry – are you especially passionate about and do you think we will all need to focus on in the future?
Simulation, Digital Twins, and how can we use advanced tech to leverage what we have learned to improve the future.
What challenges has YPN faced? How could YPN improve your experience in the future?
Recruitment in the beginning, it is much better now! Keep up with the engaging events, it’s the way young professionals like to network
What professional or community accomplishments would you like to highlight?
Through YPN, many industry leaders have recognized me as a professional and my company as a partner. I’ve gained invaluable experience from YPN colleagues and mentors that has led me to progress in areas of my career and ultimately promotions. I think YPN now has a voice in the industry and companies are seeing the value of having their young professionals involved, not just management!
If Kyle’s story has sparked your interest in joining YPN or exploring its offerings further, don’t hesitate to reach out to Chelsea Liston. Start your journey towards professional growth and networking today.
