“Career paths are not always linear, especially in fields like STEM, HR, and manufacturing. Be open to learning, trying new roles, and saying yes to opportunities that stretch your comfort zone. You never know where they may lead.” − Ms. Tammy Peyton
Ms. Tammy Peyton has been a dedicated supporter of Eastern Kentucky University (EKU)’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM) – and its predecessor, the College of Science − for nearly a decade. In 2017, during her tenure at the Novelis Berea facility, she served as an Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Administrator and Novelis Neighbor Coordinator. She supported plant safety, regulatory compliance, and community outreach by leading Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives through the Novelis Neighbor program and directing EHS and Occupational Health efforts.
The partnership between Novelis and the College of STEM at EKU has supported a variety of impactful initiatives, including Summer STEM camps for high school students, research scholarships, and sustainability projects. One project involved the establishment of a pollinator garden next to the Science Building, which now serves as an outdoor classroom for STEM-based learning while providing critical habitat for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Ms. Peyton facilitated financial support from Novelis for these programs and played an active role in their success. “During many of the STEM summer camps, I and other representatives from Novelis would attend and present on careers in manufacturing, STEM, and sustainability,” she said. “We also advocated for women in manufacturing, aluminum recycling, and STEM education. It has been a tremendous partnership over the years.”
More recently, Ms. Peyton joined the College of STEM’s Dean’s Development Cabinet (DDC), a group that advances the college’s mission through advocacy, outreach, and philanthropic support. Reflecting on this role, she shared, “Joining the DDC and getting to know the other members has been a great opportunity and continues to deepen my partnership and commitment to EKU.”
She also emphasizes the importance of making an impact locally. “Opportunity does exist in Kentucky,” she noted. “People often think they must travel elsewhere to find fulfillment or make a difference, but you can create meaningful change wherever you are.”
In addition to her involvement with the College of STEM, Ms. Peyton has partnered with EKU on numerous sustainability initiatives. These include aluminum recycling efforts, improvements to campus recycling infrastructure, judging a student-led sustainability-focused fashion show, and supporting football homecoming recycling initiatives. “EKU is a valued community partner, and I am passionate about giving back to students across Eastern and Central Kentucky,” she said. “This partnership has been a powerful way to stay connected to the community.”
When asked what advice she would offer current students, Ms. Peyton emphasized adaptability: “Be flexible. Career paths are not always linear, especially in fields like STEM, HR, and manufacturing. Be open to learning, trying new roles, and saying yes to opportunities that stretch your comfort zone. You never know where they may lead.”
Ms. Peyton earned a bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Studies from Berea College in 2007. She currently works at Novelis, a global leader in flat-rolled aluminum products and the world’s largest recycler of aluminum. In 2025, she began her role as Health & Wellness Specialist for U.S. and Canadian Benefits, where she supports employee well-being initiatives and benefits programs across North America, ensuring access to comprehensive health and wellness resources.
Previously, from 2021-2025, she served as Benefits & Communications Specialist for U.S. and Canadian Benefits, with a focus on benefits strategy, employee communications, and engagement.
Born in Richmond, Kentucky, and raised throughout Central Kentucky, Ms. Peyton now resides in Lexington with her family and is the proud mother of two children. In her free time, she volunteers with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, FIRST Robotics, the American Heart Association, and the Salvation Army. She is also a passionate advocate for physical wellness and for advancing opportunities for women in education, STEM, human resources, and manufacturing − especially in rural communities.