MEL #060 | From Crime Lab Intern to Operations Leader through Purpose-Driven Problem Solving with Dr. Mandy Youker

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Mandy Youker, Operations Officer for the Advanced Energy Technologies Directorate at Argonne National Lab.Mandy shares how her interest in chemistry began in high school and deepened through hands-on experiences like working in a crime lab. She discovered early on that she loved solving problems, especially when she could see the real-world impact of her work. Her career evolved through a PhD, national lab research, and eventually into leadership roles where she could combine technical expertise with broader organizational impact.In our leadership segment, Mandy describes how small leadership actions can create meaningful change, using an example of introducing an improv-style icebreaker in a strategy meeting. Despite mixed feedback, she moved forward because she had seen the benefits before. The result was a more open, collaborative environment where people engaged more fully and built stronger connections.Mandy’s advice for aspiring STEM leaders? Recognize  that technical skills will open doors, but essential skills like communication, trust-building, and teamwork are what sustain and grow a leadership career. She highlights the importance of making people feel valued and appreciated through small but intentional actions. Ultimately, leadership is about creating an environment where people feel heard, supported, and motivated to contribute.Explore the full episode summary, including guest bio, key takeaways, transcript, and recommended resources in the shownotes at www.drangeliqueadams.com/podcast