The Manufacturing Institute says women today account for about 30% of workers in the field. There is a remaining perception about the industry that continues to limit women in manufacturing. It’s often seen as a dark, dirty, and dangerous environment just for men. For most manufacturing facilities, that picture is far from reality.
According to The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, having more women in manufacturing is beneficial to workplace health. Their recent reports show women drive the culture, which can impact worker satisfaction. The OMA says, on average, newly hired women are more likely to have some STEM education, and employers with a higher percentage of women in leadership roles also saw increased profits.
Grace Stigliano (left) of Brilex and Leslie Phillips (right) of Brainard Rivet
are among the many women in manufacturing leadership positions in the
Mahoning Valley.
The Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition fully supports a national initiative from the Manufacturing Institute to get more women in manufacturing roles. The “35×30” campaign aims to increase representation in the field to 35% by 2030. That would add 500,000 women to the workforce. The MVMC is taking active steps to get involved.
Several women in the MVMC that work in the industry have seen career success. Here is what they have to say:
Trudy Cheney, Global Human Resources Director, Xaloy
“Having worked in manufacturing for close to 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with women who are highly successful in every discipline from accounting to engineering to sales. Their success is tied directly to their preparation for the roles they’ve held by being subject matter experts who are truly invested in delivering value to their team, their company, and their industry.”
Ashley Morrow, Payroll Manager/HR Manager, Livi Steel, Inc.
“To be successful in manufacturing you need to be bold enough to believe in yourself, you need to be willing to listen to your managers / supervisors, collaborate with your co-workers, and encourage others in your field to do the same.”
Emily Young, EWD Coordinator, (NCDMM) National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining
“As a new woman in the industry, as well as a young professional, it is important to find yourself two mentors – one with a perspective much different than your own, and one who may think and support you in a way that is most similar to your point of view. As a woman in industry, I have found the brightest moments through stepping up or raising my hand to participate in opportunities to learn more,
network, and build community.”
Grace Stigliano, HR Recruiter/Coordinator, Brilex Industries
“If I had to offer up words of encouragement for women entering the industry, I would say to be courageous, be brave, and simply be yourself. Know that you offer insight to bring to the table and that you deserve to be there!”
