New this year to the annual UMA Women in Manufacturing Conference are the ForgeHER awards. You may be familiar with our “Women in Manufacturing Award” that we present each year at our annual gala, but these awards are a little different. This award is to recognize the outstanding contributions to the manufacturing industry in leadership, innovation, mentorship, and technical expertise these women have made. They actively work on advancing the role of women in manufacturing and fostering a more inclusive industry. Winners are representative of various jobs in the industry from HR to production to CEOs and everything in-between. So, let’s meet these groundbreaking women who are forging the way in the industry.
Kaitlyn Ladwig is the shipping lead at Five Star Airport Alliance Inc. She is the only female in the manufacturing shop but is recognized as a respected leader among her coworkers. As the resident shipping expert, she takes the time to educate those in the office for a better understanding of the processes and create a more cohesive relationship. She has also contributed greatly to various projects across multiple sites through improved communication, streamlining efficiencies, and exercising diplomatic relationships with our customers. The nominator shared the story of how Kaitlyn went above and beyond for a customer by providing pictures with the packing slip to assist them with identifying what was sent and to help them understand their project better.
Natalie Koyle is the manager of production/US logistics at NuSkin Enterprises. She is responsible for devising ways of streamlining production that has save the company thousands of dollars in labor cost. She participates in Women Rising and has encouraged and mentored women in the field to become successful, innovative and leaders.
Sherry Van Mondfrans is a glass specialist with 3From. As a materials science engineer and project manager she has a strong track record in manufacturing process optimization, new product integration, and advanced materials development. Within her leadership roles she has mentored engineers and scientists, and her experience managing diverse teams indicate a commitment to professional growth and knowledge sharing.
Gretchen Hasenoehrl is the president of CNC Fabrication. Under her leadership, the company has successfully delivered complex projects requiring high levels of expertise in structural steel components, welding, and finishing techniques. Her commitment to quality and innovation has positioned the company as a trusted partner in the manufacturing sector and the Department of Navy. As a trailblazer for women in manufacturing, she sets a powerful example of leadership and capability in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Through her role, she has inspired and mentored women to pursue careers in manufacturing and engineering, fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment.
Vida Moss is the operations manager at Country Lazer. She has significantly contributed to manufacturing through the development and production of eco-friendly, custom laser-engraved products. Her leadership has been instrumental in maintaining quality and expanding the company’s capabilities, which include precision laser engraving for custom awards, plaques, and promotional products. Vida leads by example, promoting a workplace culture that supports diversity and inclusivity. Her commitment to mentorship and skills development encourages women in her team to advance in technical and leadership roles within the company. She assisted in executing several impactful projects, including the production of thousands of Junior Ranger badges for iconic sites like Olympic National Park, Zion National Park, and Bears Ears National Monument.
Cari Dietrich is the principal engineer of research and development at Northrop Grumman. She has managed a manufacturing process for medical devices including managing capital expense projects and regulatory audits. As a leader she works with all levels of an organization from operators to C-suite with the professionalism of a seasoned engineer and never leaves out the input from peers. Cari was integral in rolling out an anti-pathogenic powder for use in biomedical implants and led the effort in transfer from R&D to Production volume manufacturing.
Rebekah Stuart is the Group Product Manager at Hexcel Corporation. She is responsible for safety, quality and productivity of 10 manufacturing processes and manages four rotating shifts of four production supervisors and 60 unionized operators. Rebekah led the global company manager toolkit and training for DEI initiative and is currently mentoring five women in a variety of roles at Hexcel. She also currently leads the Artificial Intelligence council and a Pilot Buddy Program.
Elena Balasa is a Senior Systems Engineering Manager at Northrop Grumman. As a highly trained and skilled engineer she seeks to educate and train other along the way. She implemented teams’ skills matrix to align employee development and coaching with business needs and career growth. As a result, two people in the team were promoted, while another one moved to another department as he outgrew his current role.
Congratulations to all of these amazing and inspiring women in the industry. We cannot wait to celebrate with you on March 26 and give you the recognize you deserve!
If you are interested in attending the “Lace Up & LEAD” Women in Manufacturing Conference you can learn more and register here.