Ashley Dodds has proudly been part of The University of Alabama community since 2007 and has served in Culverhouse since 2020.

     In 2019, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication & Information Sciences, with a major in Public Relations, an accomplishment that was especially meaningful to her as a full-time UA employee, mother, and wife. That experience helped to strengthen her commitment to lifelong growth both personally and professionally.

     Ashley was born and raised in Tuscaloosa and has been proud to call it home her entire life. She is blessed with a wonderful husband, three grown sons, one grandson, and three dogs who keep life fun and busy. In her free time, she enjoys shopping, being outdoors, and getting lost in a good book.

     Mamade Conneh, a Civil Engineering student at The University of Alabama, spent the summer of 2025 interning with M&H Valve Company (McWane), where he played a key role in improving quality assurance and laboratory operations.

     Mamade’s projects centered on improving work instructions, reducing testing backlogs, and evaluating new equipment purchases. By shadowing experienced technicians and learning through hands-on practice, he quickly built the knowledge needed to contribute meaningful improvements to the foundry’s testing processes.

     Using Excel to track and analyze both physical and chemistry data, Mamade created clear, step-by-step work instructions for laboratory technicians. These documents not only reduced variability in day-to-day operations but also accelerated the onboarding of new lab technicians. His efforts to streamline lab operations are projected to reduce labor costs while improving consistency and safety in testing.

     In addition to his work on documentation and process improvements, Mamade took the initiative to research equipment upgrades. He analyzed options for a new lathe machine dedicated to turning test bars, balancing cost, functionality, and ease of use. His well-prepared proposal, including a cost-benefit analysis, was approved for budgeting in the upcoming fiscal year, reflecting his ability to connect technical solutions with financial impact.

The total documented impact of Mamade’s internship was $1,002,891, a testament to both his technical contributions and his ability to think strategically.

Mamade credits the quality assurance and foundry teams for their support:

“While I officially only had two mentors, I was mentored by so many other people who cared about my growth. Everyone was friendly, helpful, and invested in my success.”

 “Mamade has made a significant impact in the foundry by leveraging his learning of the processes to drive improvements in efficiency, safety, and consistency. His initiative and hands-on approach created a more productive, safe, and organized environment.” - Jace Astorga, Quality Engineer

“Mamade’s contributions were outstanding. He authored comprehensive work procedures, streamlined training, and pitched an innovative equipment solution that will save the company thousands annually. He is a rising star with tremendous potential.” - Barry Weaver, Foundry Manager

“I enjoyed my time with M&H Valve, and I am grateful to Alabama Productivity Center for connecting me with them. I was really able to contribute in a meaningful way and make a lasting impact. Best internship ever.”

- Mamade Conneh, APC Intern

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     Founded in 1986 on the campus of The University of Alabama, Alabama Productivity Center is a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening Alabama’s workforce, industries, and economic development through education, industry partnerships, professional services, and student engagement opportunities, including a unique internship program.

     APC continues supporting businesses and communities across the state through workforce development, operational support, and collaborative industry initiatives.