From taking on new responsibilities to learning new skills, our team members have shown dedication and commitment to their careers. This month, we’re sharing some of their stories related to professional growth.
Meet Dustin Starnes, Project Engineering Manager!
Tell us about your career at L&P.
I joined the company in 2017 after graduating from Western Carolina University with a bachelor’s in engineering technology. During my internship, I created a poke‑yoked jig that helped operators cut a “Flex Cut” into a customer’s product. That project highlighted my technical skills and led to a full‑time offer as a Jr. Process Engineer.
As a Jr. Process Engineer, I worked on capital design projects across our facilities to eliminate top quality issues. A major highlight was helping design, build, implement, and sustain the “Mini Rail Laminator.” This machine was recreated multiple times and used across the network for several years, becoming essential for one of our major customers.
In 2021, I was promoted to Process Engineer, continuing to develop solutions for the production environment. During this time, I was named the Conover facility’s “Scrap Champion” by the plant manager. Leading the team to implement a standing program that continues to reduce scrap.
Recently, I was promoted to project engineering manager for the technical services group, and I look forward to making a lasting impact on our foam-pouring operations.
What or who has helped you with your career growth?
The people I’ve worked with during my time at the company have been pivotal to my success. Dean Shook was my first mentor – a skilled machinist and fabricator who taught me metalworking and essential machining practices. Lonnie Blackburn has been an outstanding electrical and controls engineering mentor and a strong leader within our organization. Jeff Miller has always been someone I can turn to for conversations about the business and our industry.
There are many others I rely on for advice and guidance. The talented people on our team have consistently been the driving force in my career.
Has a piece of career advice or a mantra of your own stuck with you?
If something is worth doing, it’s worth doing right. And when you face a difficult decision, choose the harder path – it’s the right one.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy learning about other industries and how things work. I often spend time at the range improving my skills and knowledge around firearms, along with the gear and mindset that go with that world. I’m recently engaged and love spending time with my fiancé. I also make time for family events and stay close to my loved ones – they’re my priority.