Tauber Institute alumni bring their operations expertise to leadership roles in a wide variety of fields, all over the globe. Read about what some of our alumni are doing today, and learn about the impact their Tauber experience has had on their career paths.
MBA & MSE-IOE '99
Executive Director, Electric Vehicle Occupational Safety, Global Workplace Safety
General Motors Company
Throughout Holly Myers’s 25+ year career with General Motors, she has been a leader in the implementation of lean manufacturing and people empowerment.
Holly has worked for GM in ten locations in two countries and five states. She began her career as a college intern working on multiple projects in several different departments at the GM Press Plant in Mansfield, Ohio, and upon graduation, she took on the role of production Group Leader. Currently, Holly is the Operation Director of the Chongqing Branch of SAIC GM Wuling Automobile Company, Ltd. Just before this assignment, she was the Director of the Global Dimensional Center within Body Systems Manufacturing Engineering. Holly holds a BS in Manufacturing Management from Kettering University, as well as her dual Master degree as a GM Fellow in Business and Industrial Operations Engineering at the University of Michigan. Holly was admitted to the Tauber Institute for Global Operations while at the University of Michigan.
Q: When you think back on your time with the Tauber Program, what stands out?
A: IPD (Integrated Product Development) was a really great experience. I found it insightful and business acumen-broadening to work with team members from other degree programs and to experience all aspects of a product launch. Best of all it was fun which brought home to me the fact that working hard and having fun do not have to be and, in fact, should not be mutually exclusive.
Q: In what ways did your Tauber experience shape the professional that you are now?
A: The classes I took at Tauber really cemented my passion for lean manufacturing. The knowledge I gained at Tauber was the foundation from which arose many lean implementation achievements throughout my career.
Q: What is the most challenging aspect of your work life today?
A: I am currently working in China, so language and cultural barriers are my biggest challenges. However, I find that in China as with my other assignments, a main key to success is taking the time to explain the “why” of an initiative, not just the “what” and “how.”
Q: What advice would you give to current or future Tauber students?
A: Live each day to the fullest, work hard, prepare for the future but enjoy the journey and find balance in your life. You’ll be happier and more successful for your efforts.
Q: What would fellow alums be surprised to know about you?
A: In my spare time, I love to perform in community theater. I’ve acted, sang and danced in over half a dozen shows since grad school. There is no better stress reliever than to BE someone else!