I began my career at a non-Toyota automotive manufacturer at 19 years old as a production team member. Aside from the layoffs often caused by a cyclical business, it was an incredible company. That’s when I learned the importance of a continuous improvement mindset and empowering people. I lived these values at work every day until the plant eventually closed. Hoping to find a more stable and secure future for my wife and three young children, I applied for a position at Toyota in my hometown.
