The Manufacturing Shake-Up

What does it mean to truly find your fit in the manufacturing world? 
For Mia Merrel, Director of Product Management at ASSA ABLOY, it’s about combining creativity, collaboration, and a fearless drive to learn.  
In this inspiring episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, Mia shares how she carved out her role, from seeking mentorship to launching innovative projects that transformed how her company communicates. 
This episode also dives into Mia’s leadership philosophy, exploring how she uses collaboration and creativity to build inclusive teams and innovative solutions. 
Finally, Mia shares valuable advice for listeners looking to develop their own passion projects and highlights the importance of addressing small problems to drive big organizational changes. 
Where you can find Mia:  
Mia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mia-merrel/  Company: https://www.assaabloy.com/  ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

On this episode with Jayme Coates, COO of Juniper Biomedical, Jayme shares some of her key career insights.  
Jayme talks to Ellen and Jenny about gaining inspiration from nature – both to clear her head AND in its simplicity. She's discovered that reducing complexity is often the key to solving really challenging problems.  
Jayme's background and experience also underlines why it's so important to keep an open mind, challenge your assumptions and stay curious. She talks about career choices she thought would be boring, but later discovered they absolutely fascinated her. 
Finally, Jayme concludes with some excellent advice to women working in technical fields...but you'll have to listen to hear that!  
Where you can find Jayme:  
Jayme's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymecoates/  Company: https://www.juniperbiomedical.com/  ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Kristina Pacheco's story challenges conventional ideas of who “belongs” in the manufacturing industry and proves that career paths may be a bit winding before finding the right one.  
 
When Kristina realized she didn't want to go into college debt, she started her journey to find a hands-on career. At first she landed on traditional female-dominated fields in the beauty industry before she realized those really weren't for her. Eventually she was introduced to the fields of welding and then machining, and she became hooked! 
 
When starting her first jobs, Kristina thought she had to change who she was...she dressed down and hid her personality. Over time—and with a surprising push from her younger sister—she realized that embracing her true self could help her find success and fulfillment on her own terms. Now, as an authentic, confident professional, Kristina brings her creativity and individuality to a role that she loves, while inspiring others around her. 
 
Where you can find Kristina:  
Kristina's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-pacheco-329b16187/ Company: https://kamatics.com/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Amanda Wiriya's story is a testament to the power of listening, being transparent, and exploring your transferable skills.  
She began her career at Wepco Plastics as an Administrative Assistant, seeking stability and flexibility. But leaders at Wepco saw her potential and her ability to use skills derived from previous (non-manufacturing) roles, leading ultimately to her rise to the role of Vice President of Operations.  
Today, Amanda leads Wepco’s operational strategy, finances, and human resources, working closely with an all-male leadership team to foster an environment of transparency and growth. 
Amanda opens up about the unique challenges and advantages of being "the only" woman on her team —a journey that many women in manufacturing can relate to. She shares valuable insights into how she proceeded.  
We discover that Wepco has an incredible commitment to transparency, a practice of assuming “the process failed, not the person.” This supportive, process-focused approach drives innovation and morale. By consistently questioning assumptions and fostering open communication, Amanda has played a key role in shaping a culture that values each individual contributor. 
Where you can find Amanda:  
Amanda's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-wiriya-322545141/  Company: https://wepcoplastics.com/  
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Sit down with Beatriz Gutierrez, President & CEO of CONNSTEP, a leading force in Connecticut’s manufacturing ecosystem.  
Beatriz shares key moments from her career journey. She opens up about an early career situation where she doubted her readiness for a leadership role, only to realize later that she had underestimated her unique strengths. She reflects on our tendency, as women, to need to feel "overqualified" before taking a leap - a mindset she urges others to overcome. 
From Colombia to Connecticut, Beatriz has navigated male-dominated environments, leveraging her engineering and business skills while continuously learning. She discusses her experience leading CONNSTEP, helping Connecticut’s manufacturers thrive, and the importance of mentorship in her success. 
Her message: take risks, trust in your abilities, and embrace opportunities as they come—even if they feel outside your comfort zone. Whether you’re just starting out in your career or leading a team, Beatriz’s advice to "lead with courage, not fear" will inspire you to shake up your own path to success. 
Where you can find Beatriz: 
Beatriz's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatrizgutierrez/  
Company: https://www.connstep.org/   
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Catherine Pratt, Program Manager at HyAxiom, shares her inspiring journey in the world of sustainability. Charting a path through chemical engineering, she now leads projects that address one of the biggest global challenges—climate change. She takes her mission personally as both a professional and a parent. 
Catherine shares how her career evolved from individual contributor to leadership, and the mindset shifts that helped her get there. Along the way, we learn how Catherine’s transparent leadership style builds trust and ownership among her team, encouraging collaboration and innovation. 
Tune in for a conversation on aligning your career with a purpose—identifying the problems you want to solve and finding a way to contribute using your strengths. 
Where you can find Catherine: Catherine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-pratt-0a88811b/  Company: https://hyaxiom.com/  ------- 
Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

This episode is for every student/young adult getting ready to start college, or step into the workplace. Mollissa Bennett is a huge advocate for the trades after finding her path in welding. She came out of a 10-month technical program with no debt, ready to work and learn on-the-job. 
 
But it wasn’t always easy. Mollissa landed in some really toxic work environments before finally landing at HABCO Industries. She learned the hard way that you don’t have to put up with working in a toxic or unsafe environment. You are worth more than that! 
 
In this episode we find out what Molli’s ‘hell no’ moments were and how she’s worked hard to make it to a great company and a career she enjoys.  
 
Where you can find Molli: Molli's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollissa-bennett-3061401a6/  Company: https://habco.biz/  
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

From her early experiences in laser technology to her current leadership role at a global machine tool company, Salay Quaranta, Vice President of Sales at Tsugami America blends technical expertise with creativity and a passion for building strong relationships. 
 
Salay shares how her upbringing in a family of engineers and designers fueled her curiosity and love for both science and the arts. Her career began with a degree in material science and engineering, and she quickly gravitated towards the world of lasers, which ignited a fascination with advanced manufacturing processes. Her career journey includes stints in engineering, product management, and business development—roles that allowed her to blend her left-brain logic with right-brain creativity. 
 
Salay's love of learning, combined with her fearless approach to taking on new challenges, has shaped her career. She also discusses the importance of support networks, whether in family, colleagues, or mentors, and how they've helped her navigate the male-dominated world of manufacturing. 
 
Where to find Salay: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salay-quaranta-843b4510/  Tsugami America: https://www.tsugamiamerica.com  
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

You don’t need any more proof than this episode that early exposure to STEM concepts and careers can mold someone's life in a positive way.  
This episode with Raquel Bolling, Technical Trainer at the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT), starts with a family that supports STEM, a school that centers STEM, and a student that thrived with that exposure.  
But even with all that support, it wasn't all smooth sailing. Raquel talks about what it was like being educated and working in a male-dominated field.  
Now, at CCAT, she teaches the next generation of professionals about cutting-edge tools like additive manufacturing, 3D printing, and digital thread technology. Her journey is one of persistence, constant learning, and embracing the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field. 
Where to find Raquel: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raquelbolling/ CCAT: https://www.ccat.us/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/

Amelia Campbell knew she wanted to improve her life, for herself and her family. Thanks to some great advice, hard work, and self-determination, she is on the path to great success. 
 
This week's episode is an inspirational story that starts with losing a job, but ends with a sought-after position at a great CT manufacturer.  Amelia was determined to get better work. After going through the CT Women Can Weld program and getting work with the Ironworkers Union, she found herself at a  machining program at Goodwin University, which then led her to the Apprenticeship program at TRUMPF.  
 
Along the way, Amelia learned some great life lessons – age doesn't matter; follow your heart; don't waste time! 
 
There's such wisdom that comes from following your dreams and working hard to achieve them. 
 
Where to find Amelia: Amelia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amelia-campbell-20644b92/ TRUMPF: https://www.trumpf.com/en_US/   
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

This week’s episode of the Manufacturing Shake-Up focuses on the misperceptions we can get stuck on in our careers. First, Monica Hilgarth, Lab Services Manager at Hampford Research, talks all about how to stop taking no for an answer.  
  
Many people, women in particular, can feel that no is a final answer when asking for things in the workplace. But Monica explains that oftentimes, ‘no’ is just a starting offer. It demands a response to dig deeper. Sometimes ‘no’ means you have to communicate better to your leaders about your request; sometimes it’s an opening to a negotiation. The skill is to recognize that you aren’t required to take no for an answer. 
  
Another misperception that is debunked in this episode is that careers progress in a linear path. In truth, great careers are winding, bouncing, or even jumping…you have to be willing to look at your career path in different ways. In this episode, Jenny, Ellen and Monica explore what you do and don’t have control of in your career. 
 
Where to find Monica: Monica's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-hilgarth/ Hampford Research: https://www.hampfordresearch.com/  
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

In our previous episode with Christine Marcin, Chair of Women in Manufacturing CT chapter, we started a conversation about networking organizations and the importance of joining them for your personal and career growth...but many people simply don't know 𝘩𝘰𝘸 to network!  
In this episode, Ellen and Jenny talk through some of their thoughts about the "rules" of networking. Or rather, how to throw those so-called rules out the window! Learn from Ellen and Jenny a few tips on how to enter a room, even when you're not feeling comfortable; how to be natural in a conversation instead of salesy; and what the true purpose of networking is – building relationships. 
This is a fly-on-the-wall episode where you get to listen to Ellen and Jenny discuss their own feelings about networking and how they've overcome their biggest networking difficulties.   
Where to find Ellen and Jenny:Ellen Feldman Ornato LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-feldman-ornato/ Jenny Drescher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolderjenny/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Cristal's manufacturing story starts with her arrival from Puerto Rico after losing everything to natural disaster. It continues with her college graduation just a couple months ago. And it moves forward with an incredible future in manufacturing! 
This is a story of Cristal's perseverance, but also of the life-changing power of a career in manufacturing.  
Ellen and Jenny talk to Cristal about her first steps into manufacturing, her return to school, and how she uses networking to learn and grow. Cristal is so proud of how far she's come, and she should be! She's happy to share her experience so others might learn how they can follow in her footsteps. And we are so happy to give her the platform to share it! 
Where you can find Cristal:  
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristal-m-velez-322a90240/  
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/ 

There are many outstanding manufacturing organization you can be part of in CT. One that's nearest and dearest to our hearts is the Women in Manufacturing Connecticut Chapter. This group provides networking and educational opportunities, both locally and nationally, to help women in the industry to connect and develop their career.  
On this episode, Ellen Feldman Ornato speaks with chapter Chair, Christine Marcin. They not only talk about the value of the organization, but also discuss topics like 'how to get your boss's buy-in to take part in events" and "how to prepare yourself for a networking event".  
Networking can feel overwhelming to some of the quieter, or more reserved members of our audience, but it doesn't have to be!  
Keep your eyes open for an upcoming episode with Ellen and Jenny diving into 'how to network'.   
Women in Manufacturing CT Website: https://www.womeninmanufacturing.org/connecticut Women in Manufacturing CTLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-in-manufacturing-connecticut/Women in Manufacturing CTFB: https://www.facebook.com/WiMConnecticut 
Where you can find Christine:  
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemarcin/ Stifel Marcin website: https://stifel-marcin.com/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

If there's one thing we've learned in our first 10 episodes, it's the incredible power of mentorship on the careers of our guests. So, we are THRILLED that the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing has sponsored a new mentorship community, through Million Women Mentors Connecticut, that aims to connect mentors and mentees across STEM fields, starting with manufacturing.
On this week's episode, we talk to Colleen Bielitz, the state leader for Million Women Mentors and the AVP of Strategic Initiatives and Outreach at Southern Connecticut State University. Colleen talks us through what it means to be a mentor and what the mentor database is aiming to accomplish. She also goes one step further and explains to potential mentees how to get the most out of a mentorship relationship.  
This is a terrific episode, introducing an exciting initiative! 
Sign-up for the mentorship database here: https://web.atlasjobs.com/public-sign-up/3a721099-c1c7-4032-97ba-5baf0cfad5aa/  
Million Women Mentors Connecticut website: https://mwm.stemconnector.com/states-initiative/connecticut/  
Million Women Mentors Connecticut LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/million-women-mentors-ct-chapter 
Where you can find Colleen: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-bielitz-phd/  
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

How do you combine heart with business and still be profitable? You lead with love and respect, and it all comes back to you.  
Robin Ritz, Creative Visionary at InCord reminds us that people generally want to do more for people that do more for them. Call it the law of reciprocity – or just kindness begets kindness....but Robin has learned that you can be a good person and a good businessperson all at the same time. 
This episode is truly inspiring. We see first-hand what it means to love what you do, reach your goals, and help others to reach theirs.   
InCord's custom safety netting solutions keep people safe whether their on the job or having fun. It's only fitting that their work environment feels equally as safe as their products. 
Where you can find Robin: Robin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-ritz13/ InCord: https://incord.com/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Do you need a boost of positive energy – look no further than this episode! Jess Westerfield, Director of People + Culture at Lesser Evil, perfectly reflects the company's products -  a boost of energy that's healthy and fun! 
Jess, Ellen, and Jenny talk about Lesser Evils' outstanding culture – it's no wonder they've been able to build and retain a 70% female workforce! That's more than twice as much as the national average in manufacturing (now standing at around 30%). So, you know there's a lot to learn here. 
Jess also talks about the value of building relationships to benefit your personal career growth. A really important topic for women in the early stages of their career.  
Where you can find Jess: Jess's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicawesterfield/  Lesser Evil Snacks: https://lesserevil.com/  
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

In this week's episode, Jenny and Ellen sit down with Rani Viroja, Quality Engineer at Accuturn and Co-Chair of the Advanced Manufacturing Employers Partnership (AMEP). 
 
Rani shares her journey into manufacturing, which isn't as straight-forward as you'd think, considering her parents own Accuturn! Now she wants to spread the word about manufacturing so that young people all across CT know about the fantastic careers available.  
 
Rani talks about her current role in quality management and why it's so important. She also talks about the intergenerational leadership shift going on at her plant. She works with her cousin and his wife, all early in their careers, and they all have been learning so much from AND sharing so much with the older generation.  
 
Rani also talks all about her passion for empowering the next generation of manufacturing professionals. She tells us about the great work that the team at AMEP is doing to change perceptions about manufacturing starting in middle and high school.  
 
Where you can find Rani: Rani's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rani-viroja/  Accuturn:  https://accuturnmfg.com/ AMEP: https://www.ccat.us/amep-program 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/

What does it look like to skyrocket to the top of your field? Let's find out with Brittany Isherwood, President of Burke Aerospace. Brittany's journey is fast-paced, but filled with really thought-proving ideas about finding balance.  
 
We hear a lot about work-life balance, but balance can also be found within the workplace. Brittany talks about the value of slowing down in upward career mobility so you can learn more as you grow. She also talks about how important it is to build a village around you both at work and home. At work, that looks like finding colleagues that you develop trust in and creating a path that makes them capable of working independently. At home it means finding the family and friends that can cover for you when the inevitable happens and things go wrong. 
 
This episode is as real as it gets. Brittany, Ellen and Jenny talk through some of the work-life issues facing women in the workforce, manufacturing or elsewhere. 
 
Where can you find Brittany: 
Brittany's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-isherwood-a8685388/  
Burke Aerospace: https://www.burkeaerospace.com/  
 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ 
Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/  
Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Not only is Milliechel Ramirez a Process Engineer at Carey Manufacturing, she's also an Instructor at Capital Community College and offers talks and tours for high school students and parent information sessions for their parents. AND that's all in her free time from being a mom, too!  Millie sounds like a superwoman, because she is! 
In this episode, Ellen and Jenny talk to Millie about her journey into manufacturing. You'd never believe that Millie started out very shy and quiet, but she had mentors who believed in her and pushed her into opportunities that forced her out of her shell and gave her time to shine! Now, Millie does the same for students through the state.  
This is a great episode with a rockstar woman in manufacturing! 
 
Programs discussed in today's episode: Our Piece of the Pie - https://opp.org/  CT State Community Colleges free tuition program https://ctstate.edu/free-tuition     CT Manufacturing Ambassadors: https://mfgambassador.com/ 
 
Where can you find Millie: 
Millie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milliechel-ramirez/ Millie highlighted in CCAT's Maker Multipliers: https://www.makermultipliers.com/milliechel  Carey Manufacturing: https://careymfg.com/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/  Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/