What was your first job?

Babysitting

What do you do in your current role?

Shipping/receiving, electrical wires, organization of paperwork, 3D printing, maintenance of lab and surrounding area, mechanical builds

How/why did you begin your career in manufacturing?

I started my career in manufacturing by purchasing a 3D printer for me and my children. We began making prints and being creative making prints and finding use for them. I then began working at RE2 in early 2020 and started refining my skills with 3D printing. I also began working with electrical wires and building parts for the robots we build.

What is your educational background?

Bachelor’s degree in Human services. I’m currently taking online classes for Machine Operation.

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

I love working on wires and building components for the robots we create at my job. We currently work with the military, hospitals, aviation, airports, underwater companies, and energy to create robots to enhance our everyday life and keep us safe.

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

The amount of time that goes into making drawings for the robots. A lot of collaboration goes into such a small aspect of the build. Even though it’s a small aspect, it’s still very important and can affect the time put into making the robot.

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

MENTORSHIP! I think it’s very important to find someone that you connect with that can guide you into the career. I would try to find a family member or someone close to the family to be your mentor. High school teachers, church members, neighbors, etc. as well. You never know what connections you can make that can open doors for you!

Why should someone consider a career in manufacturing?

It’s an amazing way to contribute to your community. Manufacturing has been around for a very long time and will be around for an even longer in my opinion. Everything around us must be manufactured: cars, roads, computers, trash cans, playgrounds, buildings! Literally anything you can think of, has been manufactured which gives you an amazing opportunity to be creative and think of new ways to enhance everyday life.

What is something you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy yoga, art, music, and outdoor activities.