The Material Handling Industry (MHI), the nation’s largest material handling, logistics and supply chain association, is pleased to announce the winner of the 2024 Outstanding Young Professionals Network (YPN) Award. Although the awards were traditionally presented at the annual conference, this year’s event was transformed into a virtual format due to Hurricane Milton, which necessitated the cancellation of the conference originally scheduled in Marco Island, Florida.

Bethany Patterson, marketing manager for viastore North America, has been awarded the Outstanding Young Professional Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes an MHI member company employee under the age of 40 who has demonstrated exceptional professional achievements, effective leadership skills, and significant contributions to their organization and the industry at large.

“Bethany has exemplified the qualities of an outstanding young professional through her innovative approach and commitment to excellence,” said Ariel Oliveira, president and COO of viastore North America. “Her leadership and contributions have made a substantial impact at viastore and within the material handling community.”

Patterson has successfully increased brand awareness and web traffic for the company in her two and a half years with viastore. She plays a key role in executing industry tradeshows with over 50,000 attendees and has been heavily involved in viastore’s Culture Committee, promoting community involvement through initiatives like viastore Give Back Days, along with monthly employee engagements. 

Additionally, Patterson is an active member of MHI, participating in the Solutions Community Marketing Committee, ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System) Marketing Committee, and is a Young Professionals Network Board Member. Patterson's recognition highlights her exceptional professional accomplishments and leadership skills. Under 40 and already making waves in the industry, she exemplifies the commitment and passion to thrive in manufacturing and supply chain fields. 

The YPN Awards aim to honor the next generation of leaders in the material handling and logistics industry, spotlighting individuals who are making remarkable strides in their careers.

About viastore
viastore is a leading global provider of automated intralogistics solutions, specializing in software and systems for warehouse and material handling operations. Headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany with its North American offices in Grand Rapids, Michigan, viastore offers a strong focus on innovation and efficiency through comprehensive offerings including automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), conveyor technology, and advanced software solutions designed to optimize logistics processes. In 2022, viastore became part of Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO) as part of its strategy to enhance automated logistics capabilities. TICO recently launched the Toyota Automated Logistics Group (TALG) to consolidate its existing subsidiary, Toyota L&F, with its acquisitions, including Bastian Solutions and Vanderlande, aimed at providing integrated solutions for the logistics and material handling industries