Driving the Future: A Passport Journey in the World of Strategic Logistics

Embarking on a professional journey often involves a quest for diverse experiences, whether driven by the allure of a competitive salary, attractive benefits, or the camaraderie within a dynamic team. Strategic Logistics Specialist Ashlyn Kartes was particularly interested in the international opportunities. “I saw the job posting on LinkedIn when I was a senior in college. The position seemed widespread with the opportunity to learn every day. I also liked the fact that it would require some travel, seeing different facilities, and supporting various functions.” 

Although she traveled internationally a few times before she joined Kautex, those trips were limited to top tourist destinations. “At Kautex, I have an opportunity to visit places I would probably never have seen.”  

An employee of Kautex for close to three years, Ashlyn joined the company as an Associate Material Planning and Control, then transitioned into Strategic Logistics after a year. Although she technically works out of the North American Troy, Michigan Headquarters, Ashlyn has visited thirteen of our global sites during her tenure.  

“I was given the opportunity to travel to Europe in March of 2023 to support some of the EU plants and meet more of the team face to face. I spent time in Kautex Bohemia, Kautex Mallersdorf, and the  

headquarters in Bonn, Germany. Seeing facilities in different regions was a huge learning experience and I am so grateful that my managers supported the trip and wanted to invest that additional time in my growth.”  

It isn’t just the additional passport stamps that has kept Ashlyn working at Kautex. Working in supply chain and logistics requires problem solving and analytical skills, but Ashlyn has found a real joy in the relationships she has built with her colleagues.  

“I have gotten to work with incredibly hard-working people, who are always willing to share their knowledge, and strive for positive results. Josh Baker (Senior Manager Logistics Americas) is a constant inspiration for me. As a mentor he has pushed me to navigate outside my standard job scope, learn every day, and always ask questions." 

During her time at Kautex, Ashlyn has embraced the different challenges that come from working in the automotive industry. Her drive is evident in her promotion after a year of employment or her willingness to pack up and go wherever, we can’t wait to hear more of Ashlyn’s international stories as she supports the different facilities around the globe.  

“In Prague we were able to grab a bite at a restaurant that had been open since 1375, one of the oldest restaurants in the world that’s still fully operational. We then burned off that meal by walking about 12 miles around the city!”  

In the ever-evolving landscape of logistics in the automotive industry, Ashlyn exemplifies the spirit of a modern professional, seamlessly blending career growth with a passion for cultural exploration. Her journey serves as an inspiration for those seeking fulfillment beyond the confines of a job description, illustrating the profound impact that international experiences can have on both professional development and personal enrichment. Want to join Ashlyn on our team? Find our current openings here.