One of the most rewarding parts of my role at Caracal has been the opportunity to grow by stepping outside of my day-to-day responsibilities. Recently, I participated in a cross-departmental experience with Larry Gay our Vice President and General Manager of our OR Recycling Program—and the impact it had on my understanding of our business, our customers, and our mission was invaluable.

This immersive experience allowed me to work alongside our Business Development and Operation teams as they partnered with hospitals to implement and support our sustainability solutions. I observed firsthand the collaboration required across clinical teams, environmental services, and others to bring a program like this to life.

What I gained went far beyond logistics. I saw the level of education, engagement, and adaptability required to help frontline staff adopt new practices in real time. I gained a deeper appreciation for the strategic planning that happens behind the scenes—understanding how each decision affects implementation on the ground. I strengthened relationships across teams and improved my communication skills by participating in training sessions and adjusting my approach to fit the audience.

Most importantly, I now have a broader, more connected view of how our recycling program fits into Caracal’s mission of purposeful sourcing and impact-driven partnerships. It was a reminder that even the most operational programs are built on collaboration, shared goals, and the dedication of people working together toward something bigger.

Cross-departmental learning like this doesn’t just develop individuals—it builds a more agile, informed, and aligned organization. I’m excited to carry these insights forward as we continue telling Caracal’s story and expanding our impact.