Alumni Spotlight: Tabby Partin
Tabitha Partin came to VT from the Eastern Shore area of Virginia because she wanted to pursue a degree that could help change the environment. She was particularly looking for a school that had great STEM resources as she knew that would equip her with the tools she’d need to make a difference in the real world. Tabby graduated from CPULD in 2019 with her bachelor’s degree and moved across country to a warmer climate. She currently lives in Huntington Beach, California, where she enjoys the beautiful weather and sunny outdoors every day. Her hobbies include learning how to surf and salsa dance and socializing with her circle of friends.
“The most valuable knowledge I received in my four years at Virginia Tech were my undergrad research classes with Dr. Laszlo Horvath and Dr. John Bouldin,” Tabby said. “The practical knowledge of real industry experience helped me learn my strengths and weaknesses, and how to focus on my strengths.”
Tabby has always enjoyed learning what goes into making t work. “When Dr. Horvath gave a presentation on what packaging is, I became interested from a systems perspective. He would say, “Name one thing that doesn’t come in a box.” or ask, “How do things go from point A to point B with no damage and arrive in a timely manner?” Figuring out the mechanics, systems, and level of engineering that goes into a simple box intrigued me. I knew there was going to be an immense level of opportunity for me in this field.”
Tabby has already earned her green belt in Lean Sigma Six, a method that combines lean manufacturing and six sigma techniques to provide a framework for organizational change, and she is currently working on her black belt in the same system.
Tabby states that she learned the importance of Lean Manufacturing from her project-based class and internship. “This is one of the main reasons I was able to secure two internships and get right into my field after graduating. Lean Manufacturing is how I have helped increase our revenue by over 400% in a short time span. We are now providing protection for 1,000-1,500 homeowners on a monthly basis, and we are continuing to grow. Learning about Lean Manufacturing also afforded me the opportunity to make a difference in the renewable energy sector. I love how my current employer, Solar Insure, is helping the environment and the fight against climate change by insuring the alternative energy sector and helping homeowner have peace of mind and protection on their solar systems.”
“I’ve worked as the Director of Operations for the renewable energy company, Solar Insure, since late 2020,” Tabby said. “As Director of Operations, I implement Lean six sigma to create and oversee the day to day of the business. This means, production, account management, customer service and the day to day business metrics (such as accounting and growth plans). My responsibilities include studying our Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for continuous improvement. One of my core roles is to build our current systems to scale and grow our company. In short, this means I map out and analyze all processes to ensure operational excellence. Being in this position requires the ability to spot and act on opportunities – my role was designed to reduce wasted time and pain points, and to increase profitability.”
On the current business and job market, Tabby believes: “There are opportunities everywhere! Amidst the pandemic, it became apparent that many businesses were not equipped to face challenges. The pandemic forced businesses to do a deep dive and drive systematic changes to improve their current processes. Right now, every business wants to cut costs and increase productivity. But if you can do those things, there will always be roles available. I am extremely grateful for the time I have previously spent learning about the implementation of Lean Six Sigma and operations.”
Tabby had this advice for any future students coming to CPULD: “I would advise future students to try everything. People in the packaging industry at Virginia Tech have an amazing opportunity to try so many different paths in packaging. From large-scale industrial distribution systems with Dr. Horvath, to testing food and pharmaceutical packaging with Dr. Kim, the knowledge and practical knowledge that you stand to gain is limitless. Being a part of the CNRE school has so many advantages including many wonderful people who are there to help you succeed.”
