YPN Spotlight: Robyn Garrett – Shaping the Future of Material Handling
Discover how Robyn Garrett is helping to shape the future of the material handling industry through YPN
In the evolving landscape of the material handling industry, a rising wave of young professionals is making their mark, infusing fresh energy and innovation. In early findings from MHI’s Annual Industry Report, set to be released at MODEX 2024, their increasing presence represents about 34% of the industry professionals. This is a testament to the dynamic future of material handling.
At MHI’s Young Professionals Network (YPN), we believe in nurturing the future leaders of the material handling industry, and it’s people like Robyn Garrett who make it happen. Robyn’s journey into the world of YPN is a testament to the power of networking, collaboration, and a thirst for industry knowledge.
YPN, under the guidance of an advisory board and committees, serves to engage and develop young professionals in the material handling industry. The network offers a range of initiatives to its members, including webinars, coffee chats, book clubs, in-person events, YPN Awards, and the Emerging Leaders Conference.
Robyn Garrett, Public Relations Specialist at Hytrol
1. How long have you been a part of YPN?
I’ve been a member of YPN for about a year now, and it’s been an incredible experience, full of learning and networking opportunities.
2. What motivated you to get involved in YPN?
When I first started as the Public Relations Specialist at Hytrol, I had little knowledge of the manufacturing and material handling industries. My boss suggested joining MHI to learn and connect with industry professionals, and it turned out to be a fantastic recommendation.
3. What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved in YPN?
My advice to anyone considering YPN is to keep an open mind. Everyone approaches their job differently, and YPN has been a fantastic platform for me to learn how different people in the industry handle their roles. I particularly enjoy hearing from other marketers who often bring unique perspectives and innovative solutions to the table.
4. What is special about the material handling industry that gets you excited about your future career?
What excites me the most about the material handling industry is its far-reaching impact on society. Hytrol, for instance, manufactures conveyors and conveyor systems, products I hadn’t given much thought to before. However, when I realize that the conveyors we make help move products around the world, it’s truly inspiring to be part of such a global supply chain.
5. Which topics are you especially passionate about in the industry’s future?
Sustainability and supply chain concerns are areas that I’m particularly passionate about. I’m committed to being more eco-conscious in my personal life, and I’m excited to see how the industry addresses these important issues on a larger, industrial scale.
6. What challenges has YPN faced? How could YPN improve your experience in the future?
One challenge I’ve observed is the limited opportunities for in-person meetings. YPN is such a dynamic group of individuals, and I believe that having more face-to-face interactions would strengthen our professional relationships and collaborations.
7. What professional or community accomplishments would you like to highlight?
Beyond my involvement in YPN, I proudly serve as the treasurer for the Northeast Arkansas chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) and as the secretary of the Community Health Education Foundation (CHEF), a local nonprofit that’s focused on promoting health screenings, education, and preventative care.
Robyn’s journey exemplifies the mission behind YPN – a place for young professionals to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact on the material handling industry. If her story has inspired you to join YPN, attend YPN Events, or explore what YPN has to offer, reach out to Mary Alyson Ammons and take your first step toward a brighter future.
