Faces of Innovation: Meet the people behind Universal Fibers (Part 4)

The People Powering Universal Fibers' Innovation Journey

In this latest chapter of our "Faces of Innovation" feature, we are highlighting a remarkable individual who infuses our company's vision, culture, and dedication to excellence with their passion and expertise.

Our latest conversation is with Justyna Lyczko, Universal Fibers' Head of Engineering at our European Plant in Poland.

1.   It’s great to interview a woman working in Engineering, who/what sparked your interest?

I appreciate it is not common for women to hold very technical jobs in Poland, and I am pleased to play a part in changing this perception. With more positions opening, women have the opportunity to demonstrate their mental strength and ability to multitask. Confidence will grow as the number of women in technical positions grows.

My interest in technical work was sparked by my father. He had a fulltime job as an electrician but would take on extra jobs in the afternoons when I would accompany him. I started when I was around 5 years old, it was great fun being with him and helping. He would get me to do small tasks like pulling cables through or mixing the plaster. I still loved going with my father right through my teenage years tackling more and more complicated tasks.

Ironically, my husband is also an electrician. We met at technical school and are very alike in the way we think and approach things. For example, we built our new home together - we hired the company to build the walls and roof, but everything else was left to us, from design to install, including all the electrical, water and central heating services.

2.   You started as process engineer, involved in setting up Universal Fibers European plant, discuss the impact Universal Fibers has had on you, and the region.

I joined Universal Fibers on 1^st Jan 2019, as one of seven people recruited to build the plant from scratch. At that time, we all had multi roles to ensure we maximized the skills coverage from a small team.

Universal Fibers has made a massive impact to this region of Poland. During the 70’s and 80’s around 15k people were employed in manufacturing in this area. This number dropped drastically, as the major employer in the area shrunk their business which included exiting carpet fibre production. Universal took over the half-demolished building which only had a basic infrastructure. We invested in equipment, completely updating the shop floor and offices, and are still expanding our capability.

Universal Fibers were very supportive when I gave birth to my son, who is now 2.5 years old. I was able to take six months maternity leave and work a further six months on reduced hours. This transition had a huge impact on creating a healthy work life balance.

3.   What do you enjoy most about working at Universal Fibers, your role, and the industry?

There are two main things I enjoy most – people and challenges.

We have built a strong team in a very friendly and inclusive atmosphere. As part of the senior team, I make sure I am on the shop floor every day, helping to resolve any hurdles the team have come across, to build and grow their confidence.

I am an extrovert and can’t stay still in one place. I thrive on challenges and enjoy multitasking the many areas I am responsible for. As head of engineering, I am responsible for many projects, and keep motivated by the seeing progress we have made. I structure large projects into smaller tasks, so it is less daunting for everyone involved.

I also work closely with our sales team, constantly innovating and developing new yarns – it is so rewarding seeing the development samples turn into orders over a relatively short period.

4.   What has been your greatest achievement so far, and what is your key focus over the next 12 months and beyond?

The team and I have developed several new ranges with our customers since I returned from maternity leave and been fully focused on engineering.

The greatest achievement in the past 12months has been the installation of our one step line, designed to improve efficiencies in our operation. By investing in the latest technology, our one step line is the first in the Group to work with 3 colours, providing our customers with innovative low weight high bulk carpet fibres.

My main focus over the next twelve months is to continue the investment and development of this plant, which includes both machinery and technology. We are part of a large global team, so share our expertise, and I am looking forward to welcoming our colleagues from Bristol, USA to install new IT systems to support our growing business.

I like the expression “business is people” because it’s a pleasure working in a team of skilled people who are passionate about what they do. I would also add that “business is passion”, as passion gets people on board and drives success. And ultimately, “business is personal” as we value and respect the relationships with our customers and colleagues alike.

5.   When not at Universal Fibers, what do you do to relax? 

Family time is very important to me, and I spend most of my free time enjoying the company of my young son who is 2.5 years old and my husband.

We live in the countryside, and I recently upgraded to an electric bike so we can travel further afield. There are so many lakes and forests to explore, which I am marking on a map. Terrian permitting, we often take our son our on the bike rides so we can enjoy our beautiful surrounding together as a family.

Music also plays a very important role in my life, as depending on my mood I can choose something to fit and help me to relax. I’m listening to almost all types of music – calming me down when there is a lot going on around or giving me a kick when I’m losing my power.

Explore our News Feed to see how the team behind our success are innovating products, processes, and cutting edge technology to drive growth, and learn more about partnering with Universal Fibers by connecting with us.

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This is our fourth feature highlighting Universal Fibers' Faces of Innovation, Q&A series. Be sure to stay tuned to hear from our brilliant product development and customer support teams, and to learn more about our people behind the innovation.