Hope Yost

As a Commodity Manager at First Solar, I oversee strategic sourcing, supplier performance, and long‑term supply chain optimization for critical materials supporting utility‑scale solar manufacturing. I partner cross‑functionally to drive cost savings, ensure supply continuity, and build resilient supplier relationships that align with First Solar’s mission of advancing clean, sustainable energy. My focus areas include: Strategic sourcing & contract negotiation Supplier risk management & performance improvement Cost modeling, forecasting, and long‑range planning Data‑driven decision making to support operational excellence Passionate about strengthening renewable energy supply chains and contributing to a more sustainable future.

As a Buyer I at First Solar I do the following: •Obtains quotes and places orders for supplies, materials, services, and equipment. •Negotiates pricing and delivery with key vendors, supports the qualification of new suppliers and plans inventory levels according to established guidelines and in a cost-efficient manner. •Assures Purchase Orders are placed, and deliveries are scheduled and maintained to meet production requirements of one or more critical production material commodities and production consumables. •Responsible for managing relationships with many suppliers. •Processes Purchase Orders according to established guidelines and in a cost-efficient manner. •Utilizing MRP and other input from Manufacturing Planning, determine what items need to be ordered and in what quantity, and place Purchase Orders with approved suppliers to meet manufacturing requirements. •Negotiates pricing and other commercial terms with assigned vendors. •Independently investigates new suppliers for improved price, delivery, and quality. •Proposes and supports the qualification of new suppliers. •Manages inventory levels of assigned materials. •Expedites or de-expedites deliveries and change scheduled quantities to meet changes in production or requirements, including working with Logistics to schedule and arrange timely and cost-effective deliveries. •Notifies suppliers of changes in specification and obtain their approval prior to implementing the change. •Notifies suppliers of quality discrepancies in their incoming material; with internal and supports the identification of root cause and assure corrective action. •Analyses open purchase orders. •Interfaces with all departments and suppliers. •Maintains effective communications levels and fosters team building. •Adheres to all First Solar internal processes and procedures, including safety, SOA, ISO9000, SIO14000, and housekeeping standards.

As a club volleyball coach, I prioritize empowering young athletes to reach their highest potential. I work with new athletes each season and work to better the athletes on the criteria listed below: - skill development - growth mindset - positive team environment - hard work and discipline - collaboration both on and off the court - goal setting This role allows me to continue to further develop my skills in the following areas: - statistical analyses-based decision making - organization - leadership - communication

Work closely with the professor and students to set the class up for success. This role allows me to host weekly sessions to help students understand the materials of behavioral statistics.

Coached several different teams as well as offered private lessons to focus on specific skills. This role allowed me to design practices, attend plenty of coaches meetings, and teach young volleyball players.