YPN Spotlight: William Brown
MHI’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) is a dynamic community designed to empower emerging leaders in the material handling industry. Through coffee chats, webinars, and networking events, YPN provides a space for professionals to share insights, build connections, and grow together as they shape the future of the industry.
This month, we’re spotlighting William (Scott) Brown, Intralogistics Key Markets Manager at NORD Drive Systems. Scott joined YPN in November 2024, eager to connect with peers and contribute to a network of professionals who are passionate about innovation and career development. Since then, he’s become a dedicated member, bringing thoughtful leadership and a collaborative spirit to every interaction.
YPN Spotlight Q&A
Britteny Balkovec, Systems Integration Specialist at Hänel Storage Systems
How long have you been a part of YPN, and what motivated you to get involved? I joined the YPN network with MHI back in November of 2024 when I joined NORD Drive Systems in my new role as Intralogistics Key Markets Manager. I decided to get involved in the group to foster connections with other industry professionals in MHI who are growing in their careers as well.
What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved with YPN? My advice would be that you only get out of a group like YPN what you decide to put in. Make sure to be a voice on the meetings, a helper to those that are new in their careers and step up to be a mentor if you fell you have a background that can benefit others.
What do you think sets YPN apart from other networks, and what do you think its greatest strengths are? I believe that the YPN network sets itself apart from other networks by solid communication with realistic expectations for their members. The coffee chats have been thought provoking and those that are participating in the conversations, have brought real-life experience and advice to others that in my opinion show the greatest strength in this network by helping to shape the future in conveyance.
How has YPN impacted you or your work? By becoming a Mentor for the YPN network, I have had to challenge myself to set a solid curriculum for continued education and growth not only for my Mentee, but also for myself. This has impacted me by continuing to push myself to be better each day as well in my work and personal life.
What challenges has YPN faced? How could YPN improve your experience in the future? I would say that the only challenge I have seen is the involvement level of members. It is very easy to join a call / meeting with your camera off and not participate, but when you do, you gain such valuable insight into our professions. My experience however has still been wonderful.
What is special about the material handling industry that gets you excited about your future career? The ability for adaptation. This industry is filled with future leaders and products that are able to stand the test of time with forward thinking members and people who care!
Which topics—pertaining to our industry—are you especially passionate about and think we will all need to focus on in the future? Condition monitoring and predicate maintenance with a focus on continued energy and carbon offset.
What moments or experiences have stood out to you most during your time with YPN? The engagement in the coffee chats with industry professionals that are not afraid to show their vulnerability to learn and absorb from other professionals in the room.
Get involved with YPN
Reach out to Chelsea Liston or visit the YPN website to learn more. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your impact, YPN is a place where your voice matters and your contributions help shape the future of material handling.
