Whitmore Manufacturing, LLC’s Post

Engineering Dreams into Reality In anticipation of International Women in Engineering Day, I polled some of my female supply chain colleagues about why they chose engineering as a profession. While their reasons varied, there was one common thread: they all were curious and loved to solve problems, and several exhibited telling character traits when they were children. ·      Monica Guyer (Corinth engineer) wanted to be an inventor and made “blueprints” for an automated dog carwash, a desk that dropped from the ceiling, even a plexiglass robot (which she actually tried to build!). As an adult, she thinks it’s fascinating to see how we’ve learned to use math to make things move or rotate or mix together to create something new. ·      GNW Director Matrice Jackson was compelled to explore, disassemble, and understand the mechanics behind everyday things – from radios to toys to lawnmowers. ·      Value stream leader Chucky Conrad remembers being painstakingly precise and efficient, lining up green beans to trim them, using a peeler versus a knife to peel an apple, and building forts using lighter blankets on top and weights to hold them in place. ·      For Raffaela de Medici (Sr. director, Manufacturing), it was her passion for chemistry and love of technical and scientific subjects that drew her to engineering. She soon realized how differently men and women approach their studies and the insights she gained from studying together. ·      Christine Cowell (GNW VP) was a natural problem solver and loved math and science; after learning about engineering through a Women in Engineering program at Michigan Tech, she was hooked (and became the first in her family to attend college). As an engineer myself with the same curiosity of how things work, it's gratifying to see how someone’s childhood traits can turn into a meaningful career that brings unique solutions to complex challenges. It’s a testament to the power of nurturing young girls’ aspirations in STEM. Cheers to our women engineers, and let’s keep sharing our stories! Together, we can engineer a world of endless possibilities by inspiring the next generation of women engineers.

As Women’s History Month draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey of empowerment and progress made by women in the field of engineering. It’s a journey marked by resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to breaking barriers. To my fellow young mechanical engineers, especially those starting out like myself, I want to share a message of hope and encouragement. In a field often perceived as male-dominated, it’s easy to feel intimidated or doubt our capabilities especially if you wallow in self doubt like I have done most times. But let me remind you: your passion, skills, and unique perspective have the power to drive real change and innovation. As we navigate the challenges and uncertainties ahead, let’s remember the trailblazers who came before us, paving the way for our success. Let’s draw inspiration from their stories of perseverance and triumph over adversity. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow stronger. Every achievement, no matter how small, is a testament to our resilience and potential. To all the aspiring engineers out there, regardless of gender: believe in yourselves, embrace your unique talents, and never be afraid to dream big. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with perseverance and determination, we can achieve anything we set our minds to. Together, we can build a world where every voice is heard and every dream is within reach 💪🏽👷🏽♀️. #MechanicalEngineering #WomenInSTEM #Empowerment

It was International Women in Engineering Day on June 23! ⚙️    To mark the occasion, let’s hear from three women leaders from engineering schools across the country...    The hard work and achievements of women engineers are critical to the future of the industry.     Not only are they responsible for key innovations and industry progress, but they also serve as an inspiration for future generations of women engineers.     McMaster University caught up with three wonderful women who are leading the charge, asking about their experiences, advice and hopes for the industry.     ➡️ Heather Sheardown – Dean of Engineering at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario    On what she loves about engineering as a profession: “I love the idea that engineers make a difference. Much of what we do is in the background, but without the contributions of engineers, much of the quality of life that we enjoy today wouldn’t exist.”    ➡️ Suzanne Kresta – Incoming Dean of the Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering (FSDE) at the University of Prince Edward Island    On the main lesson learnt from being the first woman at the table for much of her career: “Everyone’s voice matters. Sometimes the different perspectives at the table are hard to hear, so I also had to learn how to speak so that people could hear me – from where they are sitting.”    ➡️ Mary Wells – Dean of Engineering at the University of Waterloo in Waterloo, Ontario    On her one piece of advice for young girls interested in STEM: “There is a lot more to engineering than just math and science. It is vital that young engineers learn how to communicate effectively, develop their people skills and understand what it means to be a professional and act professionally. Try and find a mentor who embodies these qualities. But also, don’t forget about the math and science!”    To read more, click here: https://lnkd.in/gKqGhEET    #ProfessionalGrowth #JobOpportunities #CareerDevelopment

It was International Women in Engineering Day on June 23! ⚙️    To mark the occasion, let’s hear from three women leaders from engineering schools across the country...    The hard work and achievements of women engineers are critical to the future of the industry.     Not only are they responsible for key innovations and industry progress, but they also serve as an inspiration for future generations of women engineers.     McMaster University caught up with three wonderful women who are leading the charge, asking about their experiences, advice and hopes for the industry.     ➡️ Heather Sheardown – Dean of Engineering at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario    On what she loves about engineering as a profession: “I love the idea that engineers make a difference. Much of what we do is in the background, but without the contributions of engineers, much of the quality of life that we enjoy today wouldn’t exist.”    ➡️ Suzanne Kresta – Incoming Dean of the Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering (FSDE) at the University of Prince Edward Island    On the main lesson learnt from being the first woman at the table for much of her career: “Everyone’s voice matters. Sometimes the different perspectives at the table are hard to hear, so I also had to learn how to speak so that people could hear me – from where they are sitting.”    ➡️ Mary Wells – Dean of Engineering at the University of Waterloo in Waterloo, Ontario    On her one piece of advice for young girls interested in STEM: “There is a lot more to engineering than just math and science. It is vital that young engineers learn how to communicate effectively, develop their people skills and understand what it means to be a professional and act professionally. Try and find a mentor who embodies these qualities. But also, don’t forget about the math and science!”    To read more, click here: https://lnkd.in/gdFzY9R8    #ProfessionalGrowth #JobOpportunities #CareerDevelopment

This International Women in Engineering Day, we had the pleasure of conducting a quick Q&A session with the incredible Paula, one of our Design Engineers at Prodrive Composites. Check out her insightful responses below! 1. What inspired you to pursue a career in Engineering? "I always liked understanding how technology worked and how it’s used to solve problems. For me engineering has a lot to do with how creativity and technical principles join, so it seemed a fun path to develop my career." 2. What advice would you give to young women considering a career in Engineering? "That the engineering world reflects society at the end of the day, and every issue women face in real life is going to be present in this world too, but that should not stop you from pursuing your career and objectives." 3. What do you enjoy about being an Engineer at Prodrive Composites?  "The fact that every project is different and there are always different challenges to face and new things to learn within the industry."

It was International Women in Engineering Day on June 23! ⚙️    To mark the occasion, let’s hear from three women leaders from engineering schools across the country...    The hard work and achievements of women engineers are critical to the future of the industry.     Not only are they responsible for key innovations and industry progress, but they also serve as an inspiration for future generations of women engineers.     McMaster University caught up with three wonderful women who are leading the charge, asking about their experiences, advice and hopes for the industry.     ➡️ Heather Sheardown – Dean of Engineering at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario    On what she loves about engineering as a profession: “I love the idea that engineers make a difference. Much of what we do is in the background, but without the contributions of engineers, much of the quality of life that we enjoy today wouldn’t exist.”    ➡️ Suzanne Kresta – Incoming Dean of the Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering (FSDE) at the University of Prince Edward Island    On the main lesson learnt from being the first woman at the table for much of her career: “Everyone’s voice matters. Sometimes the different perspectives at the table are hard to hear, so I also had to learn how to speak so that people could hear me – from where they are sitting.”    ➡️ Mary Wells – Dean of Engineering at the University of Waterloo in Waterloo, Ontario    On her one piece of advice for young girls interested in STEM: “There is a lot more to engineering than just math and science. It is vital that young engineers learn how to communicate effectively, develop their people skills and understand what it means to be a professional and act professionally. Try and find a mentor who embodies these qualities. But also, don’t forget about the math and science!”    To read more, click here: https://lnkd.in/gVnSs-RD    #ProfessionalGrowth #JobOpportunities #CareerDevelopment

It’s National Engineering Week and this year's theme — Welcome to the Future! — is about celebrating today's achievements and paving the way for a brighter and more diverse future in engineering. Women and minorities bring diversity to engineering industries that can help solve problems faster and more effectively. What J. K. Krupp PE, PMP says she enjoys most about being an engineer is “Being a role model for other girls!” …and a role model she is. Anyone who has had the pleasure of working with J.K. can attest that she is just as fierce and hard-working as the girl who initially decided to enter the chemical engineering field. Her advice she would give to her younger self? “You CAN do it! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!” Motivation which reigns true for anyone considering this field of study. If there is anything you would like to know about engineering as a career path, please ask below as mentorship and inclusion is an important part of our culture! #BSIengineering #EngineeringWeek #Eweek2024 #WelcometotheFuture

As companies worldwide prepare to celebrate International Women in Engineering Day on Sunday, June 23, we’re turning the spotlight on to Mannington Mills’ women engineers and engineering interns. Recently, we asked three of them what they like most about what they do… Rachel McFry, Mannington Commercial Sr. R&D Engineer: “My journey to become an engineer started at a young age. I’ve always had a love for problem solving and innovation fueled by a strong foundation in math and science. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of tackling diverse projects across the flooring industry spanning from sustainability initiatives to new product development. What I enjoy the most about being an engineer is the opportunity to make a visible difference, whether that be improving manufacturing processes or developing technologies. I thrive on the challenge of finding creative solutions to complex problems and the satisfaction of seeing those solutions come to fruition. Engineering offers the chance to contribute to something greater than myself and leave a lasting impact on the world. That impact is what makes my role truly fulfilling.” Megan Grantham, Mannington Commercial R&D Engineering Intern: “I am currently attending Kennesaw State University where I just completed my junior year. I will graduate in May 2025 with my Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. This is my second summer here at Mannington as an R&D Engineering Intern, and my favorite thing about being an engineer is problem solving and the high levels of math I get to use.” Campbell Zehner, Mannington Commercial R&D Engineering Intern: “I am going into my junior year at Vanderbilt University studying Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Sustainability and Environmental Engineering. Initially, I was interested the field of engineering because of its seemingly endless opportunities and technical approach to problem solving; now, I have come to appreciate the butterfly affect engineering projects have on social and economic development. My favorite thing about engineering is the hands-on testing that is part of my day-to-day tasks, making me eager to continue learning and contributing to the company’s goals.” Now in its 11th year, International Women in Engineering Day raises awareness about the impact of women in this field. For centuries, they've had essential roles as designers and builders of structures and machines, yet their stories are not well-known. For example, did you know that engineer Ada Lovelace collaborated with Charles Babbage to design the first computer program in the world? Engineering is still a male-dominated field but women like Rachel, Megan, and Campbell are helping change that. We value their passion and talent, and are glad they’re part of the Mannington family. #flooring #InternationalWomenInEngineeringDay #STEMforWomen #GreatAssociates #GreatInterns

Laurie Sheen Young shares some wise insights and fun stories in our International Women in Engineering Day series. She is a patent attorney with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, and experience working in-house as Senior Intellectual Property Counsel and Data Privacy officer. Here are four questions with Laurie: 1. What sparked your interest in engineering? Is there a specific moment you realized engineering was the field you wanted to pursue? “I always loved science and math. Engineering seemed to be a good fit since I knew I did not want to be a doctor or be in a lab every day. When my cousin heard I was applying to engineering schools he convinced me to become a patent attorney. I am the odd one that went to engineering school not to be an engineer, but to be a patent attorney.” 2. What advice would you give to students who are interested in engineering? “Engineering school is hard work. I would recommend taking some fun classes. The fun classes could be within engineering (I took a lot of aerospace classes even though I was a mechanical engineer major) or outside of engineering (I have a history minor with a focus in US history. I also took a PE class every semester). Also, find a good group of friends that can support you through engineering school.” 3. What did you learn at your first job that you couldn’t have learned in the classroom? “My first ‘real’ job (meaning not working somewhere that was only for a summer, or part time while in school) was as an attorney. In this job I learned that your job is just that – your job. It is not your life. If you are not happy in your job, take the time and figure out what and where would make you happy. Do not make your job your life. Have passions outside of work.” 4. What do you wish more people knew about engineering? “Engineering is a way of thinking logically through problems not just understanding how things work. It is also an art as much as it is a science. You have to think creatively to solve problems while implementing the scientific methods.” To learn more about International Women in Engineering Day, which takes place on June 23, visit: https://bit.ly/3XwPftq. #InternationalWomeninEngineeringDay #INWED #INWED2024 #WomeninEngineering

Celebrating Women In STEM ~ Inspiring the next generation! Meet Michaela Luebbers - Tell us about your background: "I'm currently a materials science PhD candidate studying ductile fracture mechanisms in additively manufactured metals at Penn State. I received my Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. My experience on a FIRST Robotics team in high school led me to my mechanical engineering degree, and my experience on Illini Solar Car in college encouraged my interest in fracture mechanics and grad school. I eventually want to combine my materials science and mechanical engineering skills to design mechanical components that are resistant to failure." What do you most enjoy about your current position? "While I definitely consider myself more of an engineer than a scientist, I like that I have a new way of approaching problems. When I was on my solar car team, I had problems I had to solve quickly, so I wanted to get a good enough solution that worked as soon as possible. In my PhD as a scientist, I'm no longer looking for just a solution, but actually understanding the fundamentals of the whole problem. I now have a bigger toolbox in which I can solve engineering problems in the future." To read more of Michaela's post, please visit my website at https://lnkd.in/g6i3KAev If you want to inspire the next generation of women in STEM and be celebrated on Linkedin and on my blog, please fill out the form: https://lnkd.in/g4dNVaZU Because who doesn't want to be celebrated? #WomeninSTEM #MichaelaLubbers #GirlsinSTEM #Inspiration #Mechanicalengineer