Operations Manager, Bioanalytical Services, Protea Biosciences Group, Inc.
By Samantha Ricketts
Amy Flynn has never stopped learning, a trend that began in childhood as she watched her mother graduate with multiple teaching credentials and a master’s degree. Her learning has paid off as she is now the operations manager of Bioanalytical Services for Protea Biosciences Group, Inc., and her life-long passion for academia continues as she seeks an MBA from West Virginia University.
Her mother wasn’t the only influential figure in her life, though. In high school, one of Flynn’s teachers encouraged her to pursue the sciences. “My high school chemistry teacher, Joe Raymann, brought chemistry to life for me,” says Flynn. “I knew after his class ended I wanted to do something in the science field.”
While working at Pfizer, Inc. from 2003 to 2005, Flynn’s supervisor became her voice of direction. “My supervisor and now friend, Natilie Hosea, Ph.D., encouraged me and provided the type of leadership I needed to advance my career and education. I think about her and thank her every day for her influence.”
Flynn didn’t always have the most glamorous positions during the climb to operations manager. Her first job was at Chuck E. Cheese’s, where she got to wear the mouse costume. After she received her bachelor’s degree in microbiology from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, her first science-related job was in a testing lab for a biotechnology company in San Diego, CA.
Although originally from San Diego, Flynn caught the West Virginia fever as soon as she moved here. “State pride is contagious here in West Virginia,” she says. “I choose to live and work in West Virginia because this state has so much potential. There is a momentum here that cannot be ignored.”
An advocate of education in her own life, Flynn also encourages the state’s youth to get involved in their education by serving as a biochemistry and chemistry tutor at West Virginia University. “We should encourage students to explore technology, energy sciences and math,” Flynn says. “Today’s engaged children are tomorrow’s state leaders.”
Flynn’s passion for her community is obvious in her efforts to give back. She serves on the boards of the Red Cross River Valley Chapter, Leadership Monongalia and Generation Morgantown. She also volunteers at local events to raise money for breast cancer and diabetes and to support advancing education for young leaders. “Most recently, my efforts are focused on building up people as engaged, excited citizens who recognize the importance of community and family,” she shares. This includes volunteering at the Canine Classic, the Arts Walk and the Wine and Jazz Festival in Morgantown. Flynn is also working to organize quarterly blood drives at Protea and other fundraisers to support the Red Cross.
The desire to learn, as well as the love from her family, keeps Flynn motivated. “My greatest success is found in my family, friends and colleagues, who continue to challenge me with new ideas, fill my life with grace and embrace me for who I am.”
In her spare time, Flynn enjoys hiking around the state at places like Coopers Rock State Forest, Valley Falls State Park and Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort. Before she moved here, though, she enjoyed sky sailing with her mother in California, a hobby that may be the origin of her desire to get her pilot’s license.
Life isn’t always easy, but Flynn learns from problems and mistakes. “My biggest challenge personally and professionally will always be recognizing when I’ve made mistakes, taking responsibility for them and finding inspiration in the lesson learned.”
Photography by Tracy Toler on location at Adventures On the Gorge
