The Manufacturing Shake-Up

How do you find a workplace that truly fits? For Melissa Mazo, Manufacturing Engineer Manager at Straton Industries, the answer lay in meaningful conversations, a culture of respect, and the power of a clean manufacturing facility. In this episode, Melissa shares her journey from a CT technical high school to leading in aerospace manufacturing, all while defying stereotypes and creating space for others to succeed. 
Melissa’s story begins with curiosity—learning how to create something tangible and meaningful as a teenager—and evolves into a career that blends technical mastery with leadership. Along the way, she overcame cultural and gender barriers, proving that women, particularly Latina women, have a powerful role to play in reshaping the manufacturing landscape. 
Tune in to hear Melissa’s insights, tips for identifying workplace cultures, and how her passion for “making things” has driven her career. Learn what the CT Technical Schools are doing to help build the workforce of tomorrow and why you should get involved in supporting them. 
Where you can find Melissa:  Melissa's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamazo/  Company: https://straton.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/  

In this episode, Lena Geliga shares invaluable lessons about personal growth, effective communication, and learning through failure. Now Operations Manager at Hygrade Precision Technologies, Lena talks about her career journey starting in retail and now leading operations in a high-precision manufacturing environment.  
Lena’s story emphasizes the importance of asking questions and embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth. From setting boundaries to recognizing your value in the workplace, Lena’s insights can help you navigate a fulfilling career. 
Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with tips, inspiration, and shake-up factors that will help you transform your own path in manufacturing. 
Where you can find Lena:  
Lena's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-geliga-90b196123/  Company: https://www.hygrade.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/  

Ever faced a moment where you knew you had to leap into the unknown to chase your dreams? In this episode, we talk to Kristen Tangarone, founder of KTJones Management Consulting, about the daring career pivots that shaped her journey. 
Kristen shares how she transitioned from 20 years in traditional manufacturing to spearheading operations in the emerging cannabis industry. Then most recently, she launched her own consulting business. Along the way, she reveals the leadership lessons she’s learned in navigating high-pressure environments, building team consistency, and adapting skills across industries. 
Ellen and Jenny discuss with Kristen the challenges and rewards of stepping out of her comfort zone to build a career that aligns with her passion. 
Where you can find Kristen:  
Kristen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-tangarone/ ------- 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/  

Jaclyn Epstein, COO of MICA Corporation, shares how her leadership is inspired by her grandfather’s values of doing good and doing right.  
Jaclyn explains how the words 'care' and 'careful' perfectly describe manufacturing as they drive decision-making, quality, and trust in the workplace.  
She discusses how she tackles challenges through self-awareness and vulnerability. She also shares her tips on how to take on tough conversations.   
Her story highlights how embracing vulnerability, fostering trust, and aligning actions with values can inspire growth and create meaningful impact in any career. 
Where you can find Jaclyn:  
Jaclyn's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclyn-epstein-a938623b/   Company: https://mica-corp.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/  

As we enter a new year, many of us create ambitious lists of goals—but how do we move from writing them down to actually accomplishing them?  
In this practical episode, Jenny and Ellen have a conversation that walks you through the art of setting and achieving meaningful goals. They break it all down into an actionable 5-step process, making the often-daunting task of goal achievement feel manageable and exciting. 
Here’s what they cover: 
Choosing the goal  
Discovering your "Why" 
Measuring progress 
Defining actions and behaviors  
Embracing imperfection 
If you're looking to make 2025 your best year yet, this episode is packed with strategies to help you focus, grow, and shake things up in your personal and professional life. 
Do you want more of Ellen and Jenny? Their team at The Bolder Company can help support sessions like this and much more: https://www.theboldercompany.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/  

How can success drive more success? By pulling it apart to discover what made that success happen!  
In manufacturing, we are no strangers to pulling apart problems, doing root-cause analysis or applying Lean and continuous improvement principles. But how often do we take a pause to recognize a 𝐰𝐢𝐧 and find out what steps made it happen? 
In this episode, Ellen and Jenny walk us through an exercise of narrowing down a big win into smaller parts and then pulling it further apart to discover what actions and behaviors enabled the success. 
This is a great exercise to close out the year on a positive note that will lead you to further success in the new year. You can do this exercise by yourself or grab a friend/coworker or even your whole team! 
Do you want more of Ellen and Jenny? Their team at The Bolder Company can help support sessions like this and much more: https://www.theboldercompany.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 episode, Lisa Brown, Market Segment Director at Ensign Bickford Aerospace and Defense (EBAD), shares transformative insights on navigating career growth without falling into the social media comparison trap.  
Lisa discusses the importance of learning in your first year, using lateral moves to build diverse skills, and the value of mentorship and networking. She emphasizes self-reflection, realistic timelines, and focusing on personal growth rather than external validation.  
Whether you're starting out or seeking to level up, Lisa’s advice will help you approach your career with clarity and purpose. 
Where you can find Lisa:  
Lisa's LinkedIn ASSA ABLOY 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company Podcast executive production by Gael Communications Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions   

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/