Alumni Lecture Series: Mr. MarK Klee

Transforming Your Career
Mr. Mark Klee
September 11, 2023

 

ABSTRACT

 

The manufacturing industry, especially the automotive segment, is in the midst of a rapid, once-in-a-century transformation.

 

Mark Klee, head of Toyota's powertrain plant in Georgetown Kentucky, will share his insights on why possessing a problem-solver mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement is critical to success in your career. Hear from Mark's first-hand experience and expertise on how understandings and embracing these qualities will help you apply your knowledge to real-world problems and be better equipped to navigate the obstacles and challenges that will inevitably arise along your career journey.

 

BIOGRAPHY

Mark Klee is the head of powertrain at Toyota Kentucky, responsible for leading daily plant operations for the machining and assembly of engines and axles for many Toyota vehicles including, Camry, Highlander, RAV4, Lexus ES, Tacoma and the Grand Highlander.

 

A graduate of Eastern Kentucky University with a bachelor’s in industrial technology, Klee joined Toyota in 1994 as a specialist in assembly production engineering at its Georgetown, Ky. Plant. He has worked in many aspects of engineering across multiple roles, including assembly, powertrain and maintenance. Klee has also worked in other business functions, including planning and profitability management.

In 2015, he was promoted to group manager of powertrain production engineering, overseeing the management of multiple Toyota engine plants in North America. He then took a short-term role at Toyota’s engine plant in Alabama, where he was responsible for leading business reform.

Throughout his time at Toyota, Klee has worked on many milestone projects, including Toyota’s first fuel-injected and first hybrid engines produced in North America. In addition, he led the development and start of production on Toyota Kentucky’s 2.4L Turbo flex production line – Capable of producting three different engine typles on the same production line – another first for Toyota in North America. Under Klee’s leadership, the Kentucky powertrain shop also began production trials and started production for hydrogen fuel cellsand started production for hydrogen fuel cell kits for use in heavy-duty commercial trucks, for which his team continues to work on developing future business.

Outside of Toyota, he is active in the local community serving on the YMCA of Central Kentucky board and is a previous board member for the United Way of the Bluegrass. Kell also lends his expertise to supporting the University of Kentucky Society of Automotive Engineers’ formula care team.

In his spare time, Klee and his wife, Jackie, enjoy supporting their two children, Olivia and Matthew David, in their many endeavors.