Kelley Plats

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT KELLEY PLATS

I work with engineers, but I study leadership.I help build technical solutions, but I’m fascinated by systems. My career sits at the intersection of technology, relationships, and curiosity. Professionally, I work in advanced manufacturing and optical technologies, partnering with engineers, scientists, and technical teams to turn complex ideas into real-world solutions. I enjoy operating in environments where precision matters, specifications matter, and collaboration matters just as much. But what has always interested me most is the human side of technical organizations. How do subject matter experts grow into leaders?How do teams communicate across disciplines?How do organizations create environments where expertise can scale beyond one person? Those questions led me to pursue a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) focused on leadership development within technical organizations. My research explores how structured systems like ISO 9001 quality management frameworks can support the development of leadership capabilities in subject matter experts. In many ways, I naturally gravitate toward the role of translator and connector. I enjoy helping technical teams communicate more clearly, aligning people around shared goals, and making complex ideas easier to understand. Outside of the day job, my curiosity shows up in other ways too. I enjoy public speaking, mentoring, leading creative projects, and building communities around shared ideas. Whether it’s an industry conversation, a leadership discussion, or a community arts project, I’m energized by bringing people together and seeing what happens next. At the end of the day, I’m driven by curiosity, thoughtful leadership, and meaningful collaboration. And if we ever cross paths, there’s a good chance I’ll ask what problem you’re currently trying to solve. I take my work seriously.I just don’t take myself seriously.