In this episode of the Conversations podcast, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Jason Mesteller, a seasoned plant manager and director of operations with more than 17 years of experience at First Solar, a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions. His professional journey began with a solid educational foundation. He holds an Associate of Science degree in Aviation Maintenance Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida and a Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies from the University of Toledo.

Jason has held several key positions within First Solar, progressively taking on more responsibility and leadership roles. Since July 2021, Jason has served as the plant manager at First Solar's Perrysburg, Ohio facility, where he oversees operations and ensures the plant meets its production goals.

In addition to serving as plant manager, Jason is director of operations, a role he has held since April 2019. In this capacity, he is responsible for the strategic oversight of the manufacturing processes, driving operational excellence, and leading initiatives to improve plant performance. From March 2017 to April 2019, he served as Manager of Global Manufacturing Control, where he coordinated manufacturing activities across multiple international sites, demonstrating his capability in handling global responsibilities and international relations.

Jason's earlier roles at First Solar included Manager of Operations Engineering, Manufacturing Specialist, Production Supervisor and Production Team Lead. His hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of the manufacturing process have been instrumental in his ability to lead teams effectively and implement process improvements.

In addition to his practical experience, Jason is PMP certified and trained in Theory of Constraints (TOC), Six Sigma and Critical Chain Project Management. He is proficient in MS Excel, PowerPoint and analytical software such as JMP and SQL. His commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence is evident in his Six Sigma Green Belt certification.

Jason Mesteller's dedication to manufacturing excellence, coupled with his leadership skills and technical expertise, makes him a respected figure in the industry and the community. Jason also serves as a member of the Owens Community College Foundation Board of Directors.

In this episode of the Conversations podcast, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Myron D. Lewis, MSW, MBA, FACHE, the president and chief executive officer of Blanchard Valley Health System in Findlay. Blending clinical expertise with strategic and operational leadership, he has served in many leadership capacities and provided direct patient care as a social worker and counselor. Lewis specializes in organizational planning, leadership development, innovation and process transformation. Passionate about healthcare and the community, he is driven by collaboration, transparency and the convention that quality care starts with a commitment to the organization’s associates.

Myron’s journey began at Michigan State University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in industrial and organizational psychology. He went on to earn his Master of Science degree in clinical social work from Western Michigan University and later a Master of Business Administration degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

With 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Lewis began his current role at Blanchard Valley Health System in January 2021. His previous positions include serving as president of Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital, Network Executive Leader of the Community Health Network in Indianapolis and roles at Indiana University Health Saxony Hospital and McLaren Northern Michigan Regional Hospital.

Lewis is active in the community, serving as a board member of Findlay Hancock County Economic Development and the Hospital Council of Northwest Ohio, as well as a member of the Findlay Rotary Club and a committee member of the Ohio Hospital Association.

In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Sandy Spang, Executive Director of the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG). Spang plays a crucial role in steering Northwest Ohio toward a brighter future through her commitment to economic development, community empowerment, and regional planning. A graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Sandy has blended her business insight with her passion for economic and community development.

With more than 19 years of experience in the economic workforce, Sandy took her current leadership position at TMACOG in May 2023. Her tenure is distinguished by her innovative approach to bridging gaps in community needs, fostering opportunities for economic growth, and strengthening the community fabric of Northwest Ohio.

Before taking the helm at TMACOG, Sandy had a diverse career that included significant contributions to the City of Toledo, both as the Deputy Director of Economic Development and as an elected member of the Toledo City Council. During this time, she spearheaded the development of the Permit Planner, a tool simplifying the permitting process for businesses and residents alike, and played a pivotal role in the Forward Cities E3 program, enhancing the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

In addition to her public service, Sandy is a successful business owner, having launched Plate 21, a coffee shop that has remained a beloved community staple since 2009. Her business acumen and firsthand experience in entrepreneurship further inform her approach to economic development.

Sandy Spang's leadership at TMACOG is a testament to her dedication to not only enhancing economic opportunities but also enriching the lives of the community members she serves. Her strategic vision, rooted in collaboration and innovation, continues to move Northwest Ohio toward sustainable growth and prosperity.