What was your first job?

 Engineer

What do you do in your current role?

I lead a group of Program Managers. I assist PM’s in existing projects as well as introduce new customer projects. I am also a Business Development Manager. I oversee marketing and sales management.

How/why did you begin your career in manufacturing?

I started as a Mechanical Engineer and SMT machine operator. 

What is your educational background?

Bachelor’s degree

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

Manufacturing allows one to be Creative, Problem Solving, Understanding and utilizing technical knowledge, Impact one could create, ongoing learning and growth opportunity.

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

I hold 2 positions with my company. As a Business Development Manager, I look for new opportunities in manufacturing. I meet very interesting people, companies with innovative ideas and products. I sometime see products and technologies way before its manufactured. I travel extensively for work to attend tradeshows and customer site visits.     As an Administrator of Program Management, I oversee 4 PM’s who are account managers to our customers. I assist in finalizing quotes, launch new projects, ongoing customer support, share my experience in Program Management and manufacturing.

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

Scope and opportunities.  

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

Educate yourself, find a mentor, decide on a path that coincides with your passion, put your time in a particular field, continues learning, training, gathering experience, be a mentor and share your experience.

Why should someone consider a career in manufacturing?

Manufacturing career provides enough scope, opportunity, career stability and is rewarding.

What is something you enjoy doing outside of work?

Family time, traveling to new places and meeting new people.