Meet Susan Freibrun from MHEDA

Welcome to the “Material Handling Helpful Tools Series”. This series casts the spotlight on a number of material handling professionals and provides helpful information for others in the industry. Our goal is to introduce you to individuals and websites that can improve your success in Material Handling. Today, we will meet Susan Freibrun from MHEDA.

Tell us a little about yourself: Interests outside of work, family, pets, hobbies, etc. Have fun with this question.
When I am not at MHEDA, I am spending time with my husband, 2 sons and 1 daughter whose ages range from 20-25. I am also kept very busy by my 2 yellow Labradors, Addison and Wrigley, who are 4 and 11 years of age and named after our favorite baseball team – The Chicago Cubs. My family has always been very active and we enjoy spending time together watching sports or eating at some of the fantastic restaurants located in downtown Chicago.
When I am not with my family, my passion is running. Over 2 years ago, I joined a run club where I have made fantastic friends who have helped to physically and mentally change my life. Since then, I have run in 5ks, 10ks and half marathons. This year I am challenging myself and training for my first triathlon in June. If you are also a runner, I hope that you are available and interested in running in MHEDA’s 5K run at our 2016 Annual Convention in National Harbor, Maryland on Sunday, May 1st.
A well-balanced life with family, friends and work that you love leads to a happier and healthier lifestyle.
What is the role in your organization?
I am the Education and Meetings Manager for MHEDA. I plan and execute MHEDA’s education calendar including webinars, live conferences and online training. I also handle many details for MHEDA’s Annual Convention.

How did your career path land you in this role?
I have been planning educational programs for various associations since I graduated college. I took a few years off to raise my children and always drove past the MHEDA building and sign. MHEDA was located right around the corner from my home. When I was ready to go back to work I contacted MHEDA and kept in touch with the CEO – Liz Richards for a few years. My position became available almost 10 years ago.

What is the most exciting aspect of your job?
I always wanted to be a teacher and never pursued that dream. I loved planning events and stumbled across the major Program Management in college. This job marries those two talents. I am not able to teach, but I hire and work with the best teachers and have the opportunity to manage programs that our Members depend on to help run their businesses.
What makes you (or your business) unique and sets you apart from the rest of the industry?
The primary purpose of MHEDA is to provide education and training to industry professionals to ensure that they are the most efficient and effective conduit to the marketplace. I have the privilege of working with many great people that are involved in various facets of this industry.

What is one tip or bit of advice that you can leave with our readers?
Being an active Member in MHEDA is an important way to strengthen your personal and professional industry relationships. The networking and education opportunities available are invaluable to you and your business.

What are the biggest changes you see in the industry in the future? The aging workforce. MHEDA is very involved in generating awareness of this industry in schools around the country. We offer to our Members webinars, magazine articles and Convention sessions on the importance of recruiting young talent.