Karen Polkinghorne | Exploring Leadership Through Adventure and Innovation

Join us for a captivating conversation with Karen Polkinghorne, president of Network Partners, as she takes us through her extraordinary career from packaging engineer to a leader in the orthopedic industry. Discover how Karen's adventurous spirit, embodied in her unique lifestyle of RV travels across the country, influences her personal and professional life. With insights into her leadership journey and the importance of adapting communication styles, Karen shares valuable lessons that are instrumental in achieving successful collaborations and career growth. Her remarkable story promises to inspire anyone looking to elevate their career path by going the extra mile.

This episode delves into the creation of a transformative training program for entry-level engineers in life sciences packaging, spotlighting the success story of Tyler Boyd. Karen recounts her experience in shaping novices into industry-ready professionals, highlighting the rewarding transition from consumer packaging to life sciences. We'll explore the intricate art of medical device packaging, emphasizing efficiency and sterility as key components that ensure patient safety. Through personal anecdotes, Karen reflects on her own career trajectory, illustrating the profound impact of strategic career decisions and the rewarding nature of life sciences.

Karen's narrative takes an unexpected turn as she shares the story of her ski accident and recovery, offering a poignant reflection on life's fragility. Despite the physical clearance to ski again, the mental hurdle remains a significant consideration, underscoring the delicate balance between adventure and safety. Coupled with this, Karen and her husband Chad's adventurous journey living and working remotely from their RV, equipped with Starlink, illustrates how embracing change can lead to exciting new experiences. Finally, we discuss the significance of soft skills in career success, providing strategies to develop emotional intelligence and communication competencies that can set you apart in today's tech-reliant work environments.

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