Mandy Kaszycki, MAT IE Training Manager/PDM UPS

Mandy is an industrial engineer at UPS and lives in Latrobe with her 17-year-old son, Colin.

Where are you from?

I’m originally from Greensburg, PA, and went to school at Greater Latrobe High School.

What made you decide to go into the career you’re in today?

I always enjoyed math growing up and knew I wanted to someday pursue a career in the math/sciences field.  Although engineering was something I always considered in the back of my mind, I wasn’t exactly sure which discipline would suit me best. So, I went on to complete my undergrad at St. Vincent College with a degree in Mathematics. Soon after graduation, I discovered Industrial Engineering. At the time, I had no prior knowledge of what Industrial Engineers did, but the more I learned about it, the more interested I became. My interest in math, problem-solving, and desire to want to find ways to make a process better, is ultimately what led me to pursue my Masters in Industrial Engineering.

What is something people might not know about you?

When I received my Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, I also received a certification to teach secondary Mathematics (6^th – 12^th grade). I taught Middle School and High School Math for 4 years before making the transition to Industrial Engineering.

Is there a role model who inspired you to become more involved in the community?

There hasn’t been just one person who inspired me. I participated in various volunteer activities during high school and in college, but increased my participation when I began my work at UPS. I really became inspired by UPS’s involvement (and so many of my colleagues) giving back to the community. Whether it be through UPS / United Way organized events, or volunteer activities UPSers were out doing on their own regularly, our team always seemed to be giving back. It’s very inspiring to be surrounded by such caring and committed people.

Why do you volunteer with United Way? What drives you to do good for your community?

When I was younger and did volunteer activities, it always made me feel good.  At the time, I truly don’t think I even knew exactly why, but it did. It was probably because people told me it was good to give back, so I just went with it because I enjoyed trying to do the right thing. However, as I began volunteering more regularly in college and through the years at UPS, I became more and more aware of the expansive needs within our local communities. From volunteering at the local food bank to landscaping and painting homes of senior residents during United Way’s Day of Caring, I was able to experience first-hand the impact just a little bit of my time could make. After seeing the excitement on the faces of those I’ve helped or spent time with, I just can’t help but continue on this journey of giving back. I truly believe that every little contribution really can make a difference.

What are some of your hobbies or favorite things to do outside of work?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, and also trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Meal prepping with my sister and our kids, and maintaining a consistent workout routine help keep my mind and body in a good state.

What silver lining have you found during COVID?  

I do feel, especially in the beginning stages of COVID, that many people were able to get back to enjoying some of the more simple things in life. Life slowed down and allowed time for families to come together and enjoy things like regular family dinners, activities, game nights, and just simply being more present with each other. It has been an important reminder of life’s priorities.