Kalamazoo Times

Students from Western Michigan University's Haworth College of Business are gaining practical sales experience through a collaboration with Total Plastics, International (TPI). Under the guidance of Dr. Sakif Amin, students in an upper-level sales course are tasked with selling TPI products as part of their semester-long project.

"This course confirmed my love for sales and has made me ecstatic to start my career," said Allie Joyner, a student in the program. She credits Professor Amin for pushing her beyond her comfort zone, which she believes significantly contributed to her professional development.

Dr. Amin's partnership with TPI offers students experiential learning opportunities. "Through experiential learning, I aim to be the bridge between the learner and the learning," he stated. The course includes factory tours and culminates in a final sales meeting where students present their pitches to Amtrak officials played by Amin and TPI employees.

"This experience has been invaluable in enhancing my selling skills," remarked Demi Hirschfield, another student. Joyner also highlighted the real-world scenarios provided by having TPI employees present during final presentations as crucial to her learning experience.

Scott Dukesherer, TPI's general manager, noted that having a pipeline of skilled students familiar with TPI products is beneficial for expanding their sales force. Jeff Wilson, TPI inside sales manager, expressed his impression of the students' capabilities: "I can tell there is a sales process that's being taught here that actually is having some real-world impact."

The partnership has already resulted in job offers for several students. Nolan Lohroff and Steven Pyne have secured positions at TPI following their participation in this innovative course.

Joyner is now exploring potential full-time positions at various TPI locations after successfully connecting with managers post-course completion. Reflecting on her growth throughout the class, she said: "Before this course...presenting a product made me nervous...I am confident in my skills to speak with companies."