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Capstone Project Lookbook

Capstone Highlights: Driving Real-World Impact Through Leadership

ASA’s MDM Capstone Highlights showcase how MDM program participants are turning leadership development into measurable business results. Each featured project reflects a real-world challenge tackled by an emerging or existing leader within their company—from improving sales and pricing strategies to optimizing operations and mitigating supply chain risk.

These success stories demonstrate how MDM graduates are applying what they’ve learned to drive efficiency, innovation, and growth across the distribution industry—while accelerating their own leadership journeys.

John Crognale

John Crognale, Regional Branch Manager at APR Supply Co. in Lebanon, PA, leveraged the ASA MDM Program to modernize sales processes and prepare for executive leadership. His capstone project, “The Future of Sales: Embracing AI as a Catalyst for Sales Excellence,” led to a 70% increase in sales tool adoption, company-wide integration of AI-driven systems, and measurable revenue growth. By streamlining workflows and reducing time spent searching for information, John’s efforts significantly boosted sales efficiency—demonstrating the power of combining innovation with strong leadership.

Blake Kukla

Blake Kukla, HVACR Inside Sales Manager at Porter Pipe & Supply in Addison, IL, leveraged ASA’s MDM Program to enhance his leadership skills and drive measurable business impact. His capstone project applied AI technology to pricing strategies, resulting in a 56% increase in HVACR sales and a 25% net margin improvement within the first month. These gains led to full adoption across the HVACR line, with plans to expand company-wide. The program also accelerated Blake’s career, earning him a promotion and equipping him with the tools to lead his team and support Porter Pipe’s continued growth.

Kelsey Taylor

Kelcey Taylor, Shipping Manager at Porter Pipe & Supply in DeForest, WI, used the ASA MDM Program to grow as a leader and drive meaningful operational improvements. Her capstone project focused on optimizing Direct Transfers between branches, leading to a 340-hour reduction in overtime within the first month, improved efficiency across three shifts, and better product visibility through semi-automated reporting. By applying key lessons in Change Management and Communication, Kelcey helped overcome internal resistance and streamline processes—positioning both herself and her team for continued success and advancement.

Heather Hastings

Heather Hastings, Director of Procurement Operations at Van Marcke Trade Supply in Phoenix, AZ, used the ASA MDM Program to build a stronger leadership foundation and lead a strategic shift in supply chain management. Her capstone project focused on supply chain risk mitigation, resulting in a diversified vendor base, backup suppliers for every stocked material, and a more agile, proactive procurement team. By applying change management techniques, Heather secured vendor buy-in and improved overall adaptability—positioning her team for long-term resilience and setting her up for a future VP of Operations role.