Pronouns: He/Him/His
Lafayette Degree & Major(s): Bachelor of Science, Environmental Science
Graduate Degree: Masters of Business Administration (MBA) at University of Louisville
Location: Charlotte, NC
Title: Manager, Corporate Sustainability
Employer: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.
Describe what your employer/organization does: Lowe’s Companies, Inc. is a leading home improvement retailer based in the United States. The company provides a wide range of products and services to homeowners, renters, and professionals, catering to home improvement, maintenance, repair, and construction needs.
Please provide a brief overview of your role: I am an experienced Sustainability Manager specializing in environmental impact reduction and corporate sustainability initiatives. Currently at Lowe’s Companies, Inc., I play a critical role in developing and implementing strategies that improve the organization’s environmental performance.
What gets you excited to go to work each day? I am driven by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future. Several aspects of my work fuel my passion: 1. Driving Positive Change: • The chance to create and implement sustainability programs that reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower emissions. • Knowing my efforts help your organization meet its environmental goals and influence the industry. 2. Collaboration and Partnerships: • Engaging with value chain partners and vendors to implement sustainable practices excites me, as it extends my impact beyond our company. • Working with cross-functional teams to solve complex sustainability challenges. 3. Innovation and Problem-Solving: • Staying ahead of industry trends and finding creative solutions to address environmental issues motivates me. • The ability to lead projects that require strategic thinking and measurable outcomes. 4. Professional Growth and Advocacy: • Representing our company at conferences and events, sharing my knowledge, and learning from other leaders in sustainability. • Being part of a growing movement where our work aligns with my personal values and global needs. Ultimately, my excitement comes from knowing that my work isn’t just a job—it’s a mission to leave the world better than I found it!
What keeps you up at night as you think about the opportunities (or challenges) related to your work? It keeps me up at night that there is so much to do with my job! When you think about people’s homes, you can assume that most of the impact comes from where they live.
What key strengths are necessary to be successful in entering this career field? To excel in sustainability, you need a strategic vision to align environmental goals with business objectives, paired with technical expertise in frameworks like the GHG Protocol and ESG standards. Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills are essential for engaging stakeholders and influencing decision-makers. Clear communication is vital for simplifying complex ideas and advocating for sustainability. Adaptability and innovation are critical for staying ahead of trends and solving emerging challenges, while effective project management ensures measurable outcomes. Above all, a genuine passion for creating positive environmental and social impact drives success in this field.
Is education beyond a Lafayette degree required to pursue this path? No, I believe Lafayette prepares you enough to be effective at any role with its diverse coursework.
How did your Lafayette experience equip you for success in your career field, especially as an early career professional? My experience at Lafayette College was instrumental in shaping my success in sustainability. As an Excel Scholar, I had the opportunity to engage in hands-on research, which taught me how to analyze complex problems and think critically about solutions. The interdisciplinary approach at Lafayette helped me see the connections between environmental, social, and economic issues, while the collaborative nature of the program prepared me to work effectively with diverse teams. That foundation, combined with the leadership skills I developed through research and campus involvement, gave me the tools and confidence to lead impactful sustainability initiatives.
What specific experiences during your time at Lafayette made the greatest impact on your professional path? My experience at Lafayette College, particularly as an Excel Scholar working with Professor Art Kney, was pivotal in shaping my career in sustainability. Through this hands-on research opportunity, I gained valuable skills in analyzing complex environmental challenges and developing data-driven solutions. Professor Kney’s mentorship not only deepened my understanding of environmental systems but also instilled a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving. This experience, combined with the leadership opportunities and values I cultivated at Lafayette, provided the foundation for my ability to drive impactful sustainability initiatives today.
As it relates to career exploration and development, what is one thing that you know now that you wish you could go back in time and tell your student self? Just embrace the coursework and spend time with your professors. There is so much wisdom at Lafayette and it will help you in your future.
What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing your career field? Network. Network. Network! It is so important to do so and it will help you in your career. Lafayette has such an awesome alumni base that is so willing to help!
What strategies, tools, or other efforts do you utilize to find “balance” or reduce your career-related stress? I separate work and family. It is so important to disconnect after work!
How do you enjoy spending your free time when not at work? I enjoy time with my family, fly fishing, and the outdoors.
What was your favorite spot on Lafayette’s campus when you were a student? Metzgar field because I was a soccer player!
Would you like to connect with Campbell to learn more about his career path?
Mr. Weyland is happy to connect with students via LinkedIn.
