What was your first job?

Process Engineer

What do you do in your current role?

Manage quality and safety: I oversee incoming inspection of parts, in-process and final inspections of products we make, certification of product that we send to customers, customer audits, Quality (ISO) certifications, and also oversee Safety: training employees and assuring we comply with many OSHA, federal and local regulations.

How/why did you begin your career in manufacturing?

In mfg, one doesn’t sit at a desk all day.  There’s opportunities to interact with people at all levels of the organization, to ask and listen to employees’ issues and then lead teams to resolve issues.  I made a real impact to improve the processes and quality in many different products and companies over the years by working well with people.

What is your educational background?

2 Masters Degrees

When you were in middle school/high school what sparked your interest in the manufacturing career pathway?

I liked science, especially physics.

What do you like most about your current position and work you are doing in manufacturing? 

There is always something new, some new problem to solve.  I don’t need to sit at my desk all day, I’m in the plant also.

What is the biggest thing that surprised you about manufacturing when you started working in the industry? 

It was made up of mostly white men. More and more women and diverse people are entering manufacturing and enjoying the benefits of a higher paying job. Sometimes the culture is rough, so look for a company with teamwork values, one that cares about the employees just as much as the products they produce. There are many such companies out there.

What is your #1 piece of advice for young people to prepare for a successful future?

Be willing to do menial work very well to prove you can do more stimulating and rewarding work.  Be patient as it takes a while at any job to work your way into bigger and better things.

Why should someone consider a career in manufacturing?

Manufacturing tends to pay very well.  It is usually pretty consistent.  There are many opportunities to move around and experience different jobs to broaden your skills and maybe discover something you love.  You aren’t usually stuck where you started.

What is something you enjoy doing outside of work?

Running, being in nature (kayaking, camping, skiing)