Building Operational Excellence Through Analytics, Leadership, and Client Success
I’m Grant Hauskins. I build operational excellence through data, leadership, and real-world execution. Whether supporting critical supply chains or mentoring future leaders, I solve real problems with strategic solutions—always grounded in analytics, leadership, coordinated collaboration, and a focus on empowering people to succeed.
Core Experience: Crisis Management & Growth
Foundations in High-Stakes Operations
My professional journey began by tackling immediate, high-stakes operational challenges. I started as a Lifeguard, then gained foundational skills during the pandemic at Costco Wholesale in Champaign, Illinois. I contributed to the opening of a new warehouse, where I collaborated with team members to succeed in launching warehouse operations. In a Member Service Associate role focused on loss prevention, I led audit success by closely monitoring discrepancies and paying meticulous attention to detail. This experience strengthened my skills in collaboration and adapting to evolving operational needs under pressure.
Driving Value Through VMI & Client Relations
Afterward, I joined TestEquity as a Sales Support Specialist, managing multiple electronics manufacturing tool cribs throughout the Chicagoland area. In this critical client-facing role, I supported six enterprise manufacturing clients, ensuring their critical Vendor-Managed Inventory solutions operated reliably 24/7. Their manufacturing processes depended on my ability to manage the supply chain effectively, sharpening my skills in account management, supply chain support, and client relations.
Strategic Development & Academic Focus
Transitioning to Information and Decision Sciences
I resumed my academic journey, recognizing a desire to return to school full-time and focus on data-driven strategy. After training my replacement at TestEquity, I graduated from Harold Washington College with High Honors in December 2024, earning my Associate in Arts in Business and Economics (GPA 3.65, Presidential Scholar Fall 2023, Dean’s List Spring 2024).
I am now completing my second semester at the University of Illinois Chicago, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information and Decision Sciences. My current coursework in Java programming, operations management, and business analysis with spreadsheets is building my expertise in applying technology to complex business problems. I am also exploring entrepreneurial thinking by participating in the UIC Venture Series, actively learning about business innovation.
Talent Development & Risk Management
Alongside my studies, I returned to aquatics by accepting a role as a Lifeguard and Swim Instructor with the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. I demonstrated my commitment to professional development by earning an American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor certification, completing a facilitation skills course, and I am pursuing the next steps toward becoming a Swim Lessons Instructor Trainer. I have successfully instructed three classes of lifeguard candidates.
Through Waterworks, a grant-funded workforce development program, the YMCA and I aspire to empower young adults to reach their potential through mentorship, exploration, and certification in aquatics as a career path. In the Fall, participants achieved a 95% certification rate and instructed over 20 young adults in swimming and lifeguarding, resulting in the development of confidence, resilience, and career readiness. I also assist in risk audits, supporting the YMCA’s commitment to safety and compliance.
Interests & Personal Insight
I enjoy developing skills in the kitchen and in the pool. I’m a fan of strategy and depth, which translates to my appreciation for games like the Sid Meier’s Civilization series, Squad, and Deadlock. I appreciate the effort and attention to detail of artisans, whether in entertainment, food, or craftsmanship.