Facing operational bottlenecks at Sonoco, Adam Found needed a solution that would fix immediate issues and prepare him for leadership in a growing company. Whyy? Change’s Level 4 Improvement Practitioner Apprenticeship gave him the hands-on skills and strategic approach to transform processes and increase efficiency.
But the real game-changer?
It built his confidence to lead change across the company, putting him on the fast track to career success. Keep reading to uncover how this apprenticeship ignited a new chapter in Adam’s career.
About Sonoco
Sonoco Products Company, founded in 1899, is a United States-based international provider of diversified consumer packaging, industrial products, protective packaging, and packaging supply chain services and the world’s largest producer of composite cans, tubes, and cores. Sonoco employ over 22,000 people across 32 countries, serving some of the world’s best-known brands in some 85 nations.
The Challenge? Stalled Processes, Missed Opportunities, and a Need to Upskill
As a Lean Practitioner at Sonoco, Adam saw the need for better project delivery and process improvement firsthand.
But there was a problem.
“I wanted to improve my project management skills and take a more structured approach, but previous training just hadn’t made a difference.”
At the same time, Sonoco was preparing for growth and needed to increase operational capacity across key production areas, especially Stock Preparation.
Adam needed more than just a certificate. He needed a programme that taught real-world improvement skills and gave him the confidence to use them.
The Solution: The Level 4 Improvement Practitioner Apprenticeship
Adam joined Whyy? Change during the pandemic, a time when training needed to adapt fast. Fortunately, Whyy? Change’s blended delivery model ensured learning never stopped.
“Even when people were isolating at home, they were still fully involved. The format worked really well.”
More importantly, the course required Adam to apply Lean and Six Sigma tools directly in the workplace, not just study them. That hands-on approach gave him immediate impact.
“It helped me become more focused, more strategic. I stopped rushing into things and started thinking like a problem solver.”
How It Worked in Practice: Real Projects, Real Impact
Throughout the apprenticeship, Adam used what he learned to drive meaningful change at Sonoco. Here’s what that looked like:
Increased Efficiency
Adam led multiple projects to speed up processes in Sonoco’s Stock Preparation area, helping the company hit key growth targets.
Streamlined Operations
By removing waste and improving workflows, Adam helped teams move forward with greater alignment and purpose.
Embedded Continuous Improvement Culture
His influence went beyond projects, shaping a mindset of structured, data-led problem-solving across departments. “Everything I approach now is touched by what I learned at Whyy? Change.”
The Result: A Green Belt Qualification and Career Momentum
As a result of the apprenticeship, Adam earned his Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, a qualification recognised and respected across industries.
“It’s helped me move forward at Sonoco and puts me in a great position for any future roles.”
He’s no longer just managing projects, he’s leading improvement with confidence, clarity, and measurable outcomes.
What Made Whyy? Change Different?
Adam had tried other courses before, without much success.
“I was sceptical at first, but this course really helped me take that next step. The difference? You’re actually applying what you learn every day.”
He also praised the team at Whyy? Change for their support and commitment:
“The tutors care about your progress. It’s not just about getting through the modules—it’s about making a difference.”
Adam’s Advice for Anyone Facing Similar Challenges
If you’re facing stalled projects, inefficient processes, or limited career progression, Adam’s advice is simple:
“Live the course. Apply what you learn every day and you’ll get real value from it.”
And if you’re considering Whyy? Change?
“If you want more than a piece of paper, if you want something that changes how you work—this is the place to be.”
Facing Similar Challenges?
Whether you need to:
- Improve processes across your business,
- Upskill your people in Lean and Six Sigma, or
- Take your own career to the next level…
The Level 4 Improvement Practitioner Apprenticeship with Whyy? Change is designed to help you solve real problems with real results.
Get in touch to see how we can support your continuous improvement journey. Simply fill out the form below to get started!
