Graduate student named 2025 JT Black Lean Engineering Student of the Year
Published: Oct 15, 2025 1:15 PM
By Carla Nelson
Carly Walker, a graduate student in Auburn University’s Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE), has been honored as the 2025 JT Black Lean Engineering Student of the Year.
The prestigious award, presented by Tom Devall, director of auto manufacturing initiatives in the department, recognizes outstanding achievement in Lean Manufacturing and honors the legacy of renowned Lean expert JT Black.
“Carly meets the standard for the award,” Devall said. “The JT Black Lean Engineering Student of the Year exemplifies leadership by demonstrating a deep desire to learn, respect for people and commitment to continuous improvement.”
Walker, a native of New Jersey, said she first became interested in industrial and systems engineering after realizing it combined her two favorite subjects — math and business.
“In high school, my plan was to pursue a business degree, but my mom encouraged me to look into engineering since I loved math,” Walker said. “Once I discovered industrial and systems engineering, I saw that it was the perfect blend between the two.”
She added that Auburn’s Business-Engineering-Technology (BET) minor, offered through the Thomas Walter Center for Technology Management, made the university even more appealing.
“I saw that Auburn offered the BET minor and loved that I could get a minor specific to my passion for business,” Walker said. “After visiting the campus and seeing how happy students were to be here, I knew Auburn was the place for me. I haven’t regretted that decision for a second.”
As part of her graduate studies, Walker works in ISE’s Tiger Motors Lab, commonly referred to as the Lego Lab, a hands-on learning environment where students apply Lean Manufacturing principles through experiential projects. She is also part of the team working on a National Science Foundation grant to expand access to experiential training beyond the lab.
“My experience in the Lego Lab has been incredible,” she said. “I never thought I would want to work in manufacturing, but being so hands-on and involved in the lab opened that passion for me. I’ve learned how to lead, solve problems and communicate solutions effectively.”
Walker said her time in the Lego Lab has prepared her well for her future career.
“It’s helped me grow both as a student and a future professional,” she said. “I’ve gained technical experience while developing my soft skills and leadership. Having these experiences in a safe, fun and engaging environment has helped me grow as an engineer and a person.”
Looking ahead, Walker hopes to continue working in manufacturing to gain hands-on experience before eventually moving into a managerial role.
“My long-term goal is to use my Lean experience in an industry I’m passionate about, whether that’s sustainability or women’s lacrosse,” she said. “All processes can be improved, so being able to apply what I’ve learned in an area that inspires me would be a dream.”
Walker said being named the 2025 JT Black Lean Engineering Student of the Year is an honor that reflects her dedication to continuous improvement.
“I’m so honored and excited to receive this recognition,” she said. “It feels so rewarding to have my hard work and passion pay off.”
Media Contact: , carla@auburn.edu, 334-844-1404
The 2025 JT Black Lean Engineering Student of the Year, presented by Tom Devall, director of auto manufacturing initiatives in the department, is an honor that reflects Carly Walker's dedication to continuous improvement.
