Tonya B.

About Tonya B.

I am a Ph.D-trained Industrial Engineer, educator, and operations leader with a passion for improving systems and developing people. My career spans global manufacturing, supply chain, financial services, and engineering environments where I have led Lean Six Sigma transformations and delivered more than $30M in measurable cost savings. I have led large-scale operational improvements across 50+ sites globally, facilitated over 500 Kaizen events, and developed engineering professionals with over 80% achieving Lean Six Sigma certification. In addition to industry leadership, I serve as an Adjunct Professor teaching reliability, quality engineering, and productivity systems. I bring real-world engineering application into the classroom to prepare students for leadership in complex systems. My expertise includes Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Master Black Belt), statistical analysis (DOE, SPC), process optimization, and change leadership. I am currently open to opportunities in engineering leadership and higher education where I can contribute to operational excellence, innovation, and the development of people.

Experience

1. Financial Coach

   Forward Memphis

   Mar 2024 — Present

   Provide financial coaching and support clients in building sustainable financial plans

Education

• University of Tennessee, Knoxville

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Industrial Engineering

• University of Tennessee, Knoxville

  Master's degree, Industrial Engineering

• College of Engineering at Tennessee Technological University

  Bachelor's degree, Mechanical Engineering