Women in packaging 2023

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Sponsored by Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network, OEM and Packaging World

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Stephanie Neil Contributing Editor

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CONTENTS

Summer 2023

4 THE MOMENT IS NOW FOR WOMEN IN PACKAGING

8 MEET THE WOMEN LEADING THE INDUSTRY

SUPPLIER PROFILES

9 LISA HIRSH, President and CEO, Accurate Box Company

12 RENEE WIERENGA, Operations Manager, Spartan Parts, a Division of Fogg Filler, a ProMach Product Brand

13 MARGRET OOLDERS, Vice President of Operations, Glenroy, Inc.

19 NANCY WILSON, CEO, Morrison Container Handling Solutions Company

21 JENNIFER LAWRENCE, Vice President of Technology, New Product Development, Pregis

22 CLAUDIA SILVIE VAN DEN POL, CEO and Owner, Ryson International, Inc.

23 JO ANNE FORMAN, CEO & Director of Product Development, Sealstrip Corporation

24 ROSE GRAFFIN, Chairman of the Board & CEO, Serac Holding

25 KELLEY STACY, President, CEO, SMC Corporation of America

END USER PROFILES

THE MOMENT

FOR WOMEN IN

There is a real opportunity for women to lead the way as the packaging industry grows. But for the industry to reach its full potential, companies will have to address the obstacles women face.

It was a big moment for the packaging industry.

A record-breaking crowd, the vast majority of them women, came together for the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network breakfast at PACK EXPO International in Chicago last October.

The nearly 1,000 people in attendance heard Dawn Hudson, former president and CEO of Pepsi Cola North America and former chief marketing of cer of the National Football

League, deliver a keynote address about just how important it is to dismantle gender bias in the workplace and have women at the forefront of business.

It was an energizing and inspiring talk. While the attendees didn’t walk away having solved the challenges that women face in the traditionally male-dominated world of packaging and processing, they certainly demonstrated there is strength in numbers when it comes to tackling the obstacles ahead.

IS NOW PACKAGING

The reality is that women play an essential and growing role in just how successful companies will be. Their time, talents, insights and efforts are critical to achieving the results that companies are seeking.

Yet, despite making up a signi cant portion of the workforce, women continue to face historical challenges and discrimination that limit their opportunities for advancement, hinder their ability to succeed and discount the potential contributions they can bring to companies. That breakfast in Chicago, with its over ow capacity and lively conversations, could mark a turning point.

Closing the Gender Gap at Work

Despite years of progress, there’s still a signi cant gender gap in the packaging industry. Women make up nearly half (47%) of workers in all industries, according to the U.S. Bureau of

Labor Statistics, but in packaging and processing, the number is closer to 35%.

Closing that gap is more than simply the right thing for companies to do. It’s imperative to their success. According to a study by consulting rm Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute, manufacturers will need to hire 4 million workers by 2030 to avoid critical skill and workforce shortages. It’s not just a future need. According to one estimate from the National Association of Manufacturers, there was an average of 860,600 job openings per month in 2022.

Simply increasing the number of women in the manufacturing sector by a few percentage points would help ll almost every open job. But doing that will require addressing longstanding workforce inequalities. To start, there’s the gender pay gap.

Women in the industry earn significantly less than their male counterparts, with one recent study from the Institute of Packaging Professionals showing women trail men by 22%, a gap that is actually growing despite increasing awareness of the issue. This pay gap is a result of a number of factors, including discrimination and bias in the hiring and promotion processes, as well as the fact that women are often relegated to lower-paying positions within the industry.

PPWLN AT PACK EXPO

Join the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) for a breakfast event at PACK EXPO Las Vegas on Tue, Sept. 12. All women who are registered for PACK EXPO are invited to attend the annual breakfast and program on Tue, Sept. 12. The program is free, but space is limited so reservations are required. For more information, go to pwgo.to/7976.

Beyond the pay gap, women in the packaging and processing industry often face discrimination and harassment in the workplace. This reality can also make it more difficult for women to speak up and advocate for themselves and others, further hindering their ability to succeed in the industry.

Kelly Murosky, sustainable packaging manager at London, U.K.-based Unilever, shared how as a young engineer she sometimes felt that her ideas were overlooked. Rather than look elsewhere, she opted to double down.

“These experiences taught me to be more vocal and, most importantly, have confidence in yourself,“

she said. “If you have confidence in your ideas, others will be more likely to trust in your expertise.”

Another issue in the packaging and processing industry is that work conditions simply aren’t friendly to women. A 2021 Deloitte analysis found that women are 1.8 times more likely to leave the manufacturing industry than men. Lack of work/ life balance and a dearth of flexible working opportunities are the primary culprits. Long hours and nights and weekends make it difficult to balance work and personal lives, leading to burnout.

Flexible work will be a competitive advantage for organizations willing to consider future-oriented work practices, said Rachael Tomasello, global director of strategic capabilities at McLean, Va.based Mars, Inc.

“Flexibility looks different for everyone, and focusing on the unique needs of women in your leadership pipeline will ensure the talent moves into those leadership positions,” she said.

Overcoming the Obstacles to Women’s Progress

Despite these challenges, women in the packaging and food processing industry have made significant strides in recent years. Women have taken on leadership roles and have become successful business owners and executives in the industry. Additionally, organizations and advocacy groups have been working to promote gender equality and support women in the industry, providing them with resources and opportunities to succeed.

The Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network, or PPWLN, connects women in the industry and provides them with the support and resources they need to succeed. PPWLN also offers mentorship programs, networking events, and leadership development opportunities to help

women in the industry advance their careers.

Opening up these kind of career opportunities and development experiences to more people leads to more women taking on prominent and influential roles in the industry, even if they don’t come from a packaging or engineering background. Allison Lin, global vice president of packaging sustainability at Mars, Inc., described how she quickly realized a job on Wall Street wasn’t the right career path for her following an early internship.

“Luckily, Procter & Gamble was recruiting on campus, and I entered the world of packaging, which I knew nothing about at the time,” she said. She fell in love with the field of sustainable packaging, and eventually led the company’s global recycled and bio-based plastics sourcing strategy before taking on roles at Starbucks, Coca-Cola and now Mars.

“We need to focus on educating and promoting the work we do to the next generation of female talent, and then ensure that we’re creating an environment where diverse backgrounds are welcomed and valued so that talent can be retained and represented at all levels,” Lin said.

Overall, the experience of women in the packaging and processing industry has been marked by challenges and discrimination, but also by resilience and determination. Despite the obstacles they have faced, women have made significant strides and have become leaders in the industry.

The Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network and PMMI’s OpX Leadership Network teamed up to create a digital resource that outlines five core characteristics that will help women navigate a career in manufacturing. This downloadable resource features insights from subject matter experts in the areas of business acumen, negotiation, communication, emotional intelligence, and networking.

Download “Voices of Women in Packaging and Processing” at pwgo.to/7977.

With the support of organizations like PPWLN, and continued efforts to promote gender equality, women in the industry can expect to continue to break down barriers and succeed.

And as the manufacturing industry sheds its reputation as a dark or dirty place to work, there is a growing set of professional job opportunities in the field—from engineering to package design to sustainability-focused roles to plant floor operations. The packaging industry is on the forefront of technological innovation, and women can and should be at the lead.

As that breakfast in Chicago showed, the talent, energy and commitment to make it happen is there. It’s up to the industry to seize the opportunity to make real change. ▼

TIPS TO SUPPORT WOMEN IN THE PACKAGING WORKFORCE

What are some of the ways the packaging industry can better support women? The executives profiled in this special edition have several suggestions.

Promote flexible work: Flexible work arrangements and workforce policies tailored to maintaining a healthy work-life balance featured prominently. “By offering flexible schedules, remote work options, and parental leave policies, the industry can create an environment where women can thrive professionally while balancing personal responsibilities,” said Sridevi Narayan-Sarathy, global foods packaging, R&D senior fellow for Plano, Texas-based PepsiCo.

Create coaching, mentoring and sponsorship programs: Tailor programs specifically for women to provide guidance, support and networking opportunities. This is especially important for women in the early stages of their careers, said Rachael Tomasello, global director of strategic capabilities at McLean, Va.-based Mars, Inc. “Leadership positions require courage and tenacity,” she said. “Aspiring leaders can see how others navigate complex challenges and mimic behaviors while building their own personal style.”

Challenge unconscious bias: Companies can implement training programs that identify and build awareness of bias, promote more inclusive behaviors and contribute to a more equitable workplace. “Collectively, I think the entire industry can benefit from challenging stereotypes to address unconscious biases,” said Charlotte Ashcraft, manager, packaging and graphic development at Bethlehem, Pa.-based Just Born Quality Confections.

Invest in STEM programs aimed at women: Set the stage for the next generation of women entering the workplace by investing in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. It’s important to provide educational opportunities and positive role models both inside and outside the company. “Whether it’s through youth mentorship programs, career days, or simple conversations with the young women in our lives, we need to be intentional about sharing our stories, and creating pathways for the next generation to see themselves as leaders in our industry,” said Kelley Stacey, president and CEO of SMC Corporation of America.

Making meaningful progress will require everyone, both men and women, to play a part.

“I am encouraged by the progress the industry is making,” said Anne Tate Bedarf, senior manager, packaging and plastics sustainability at New York-based Colgate-Palmolive. “Over the past decade I have seen tremendous growth in this industry as far as how women are treated and listened to, and how male colleagues have stepped up as leaders, mentors, allies and teammates.”

MEET THE WOMEN LEADING THE INDUSTRY

THE PACKAGING AND PROCESSING INDUSTRIES are essential to the global economy, and women play a vital role in leading the way.

Each of the women pro led here comes from a different walk of life and has a wide range of experiences. Some are engineers, scientists, and technologists who are developing new packaging materials and food processing methods. Some are entrepreneurs and executives who are leading big, growing businesses. Others are operational experts, focused on making packaging and processing as safe, ef cient and productive as possible. And still others are specialists, dedicated to advancing the cause of sustainability.

Whatever their background, career path or job role, these women are making a real difference through their hard work and dedication. Each one is doing her part to create a thriving industry, and helping to create a more sustainable future. And each shares her advice, insights and experience in the pages that follow with the goal of helping to advance the role of women in the industry.

To be clear, there is much work that remains to be done. The experience of women in packaging and processing has been marked by challenges and discrimination, but also by resilience and determination. Despite the obstacles, women have made signi cant strides and become leaders in the industry. With the support of organizations like theirs and continued efforts to promote gender equality by the community at large, women in the industry will continue to break down barriers and succeed.

Signi cant challenges remain, but as the 18 pro les on the following pages show, there are many inspiring examples of success. These are just a few of the many women who are making a difference in the packaging and processing industries.

We hope that you will read their stories and be inspired by their work.

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. I was born into the packaging industry. Accurate Box is a family-owned business, and I’m the third generation to take over. My grandfather, Henry Hirsh, founded Accurate Box in 1944 by purchasing used equipment to start manufacturing boxes. His son and my father, Charlie Hirsh, took over the company in 1960, and in 1982, I joined the company after graduating from college. I liked operations right away. I was fascinated with how to improve our set-ups to get more jobs through our process. Now, 41 years later, I’m guiding my daughter, Samara Ronkowitz, who is the company’s fourth generation, in the business.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

The biggest challenge I faced being in a male-dominated industry since I started back in the 1980s was being underestimated. I remember being told not to go out on the plant oor because I would get hurt. Not a lot of women were in manufacturing at the time. When I went to my rst industry meeting in my 20s, there were 200 people in the room from many different companies, and I was the only woman in the entire room.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in the leadership positions?

Our biggest issue is the leap into manufacturing. It’s a very small group of women that go into manufacturing and there is a small pool when looking for experienced leadership. We need to introduce young people into the industry earlier through internships and mentoring, so they gain more knowledge and experience in our industry.

What advice would you give young women who are considering a career in packaging? There is a huge opportunity in packaging because it is a maturing industry that is here to stay, and we are looking for young, interested managers. Once you’re in the industry, look for knowledgeable people to learn from. Also, get involved in organizations to gain outside perspectives and advice from those who are in similar positions. I joined the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) when I became president which was terri c for me because I had an outside sounding board of people who were also running businesses. It’s been 23 years now, and I’m still with the same group. It’s been life changing.

ACCURATE BOX COMPANY

Mission: Our mission is to achieve sustained growth and pro tability by providing high-quality litho-laminated graphic packaging. This will enable us to ful ll the expectations of our customers, employees, and community..

Location: Paterson, N.J.

Leadership: Lisa Hirsh, President and CEO

Revenue: >$150 million

Employees: 250-500

Facility: 400,000 sq. ft

Markets served: North America

Industries: Food and beverage, apparel and fashion accessories, health and beauty, microbrewery and spirits, quick service restaurants, auto aftermarket, pharmaceutical and ecommerce.

Product range: High graphic litho-laminated corrugated packaging.

COLGATEPALMOLIVE

Location: New York, NY

Company Revenue:

$17 billion

Employees: 34,000

Industry: Consumer goods products

ANNE TATE BEDARF

Senior Manager, Packaging & Plastics Sustainability

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. A trash obsession started when my second grade teacher had us put our trash for a week onto the oor. I can literally see that classroom in my mind! Zero waste drives my professional and personal life. We don’t have home trash pickup.

I started as an environmental consultant where I worked on everything from hazardous material to wetlands delineation. After graduate school doing eld explorations in Nicaragua, I worked for the local government where we managed a recycling center and land ll. [It was] invaluable to witness the ow of waste and interact with the public.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

I’ve had people — not always male — explain things to me that I know well, and I’m always fascinated by those assumptions. I’ve never been harassed but have de nitely been dismissed to the point of tears. I’ve had a male boss many years ago apologize for his behavior, which felt like progress. Being direct about negative experiences takes courage and is necessary.

What is required for more women to advance in this industry?

I think we have to think in terms of better representation of women in positions of leadership and decision-making authority, and to root out unconscious bias. That means a stronger pipeline of talented women entering the eld. We need to be aware of bias in recruiting, interviewing, and collaborating. We need to ensure every team is well-represented. Normalize stay-athome dads and treat family support as essential care. Colgate has a program where you can take a few hours off for your child’s rst day at school. How amazing is that?

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

Tenaciousness. I don’t consider “no” to be a nal answer. Also empathy. I always try to see things from somebody else’s view and how it might affect them.

Finally, the discipline to think through a literal life cycle of a product or material. Where is it sourced, how is it used, and where and how is it disposed of? It’s important to consider the impact of everything we do, buy, or dispose of.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? De nitely do a hands-on internship, or several, to see what you really enjoy. At Colgate, we really invest in our interns and many of them have come back post-graduation, so keeping up those connections can lead to great things.

These days there are many specialty areas within packaging — materials, life cycle analyses, classic packaging engineering, design, policy, public communications, and of course sustainability. Product design also is closely linked. Figure out what you enjoy then focus your training on that topic. I personally think sustainability will underlie all business models as well as the product/package interplay, and recommend everyone have solid background there.

ANA ESPINOSA

Packaging Sustainability Manager

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. My thirst for knowledge and desire to create a sustainable future led me to pursue a master’s degree in sustainability management at Columbia University. It was during this transformative period that I had the privilege of working with an extraordinary organization called “Sure We Can,” which forever changed the course of my life. There, I gained invaluable insights into the packaging supply chain, particularly the remarkable individuals working tirelessly at recycling facilities.

As my journey progressed, I found myself championing reusable initiatives for various consumer packaged goods companies. It was then that I truly understood the pivotal role of packaging design as a catalyst for sustainability.

What has been the most important skill you’ve developed as you advanced your career?

Mastering the ability to cultivate authentic connections has unlocked a myriad of opportunities for me. It has allowed me to tap into a wealth of invaluable resources, providing me with access to new avenues for growth and development. Moreover, it has served as a beacon of support and guidance during pivotal moments in my professional journey.

In this pursuit, I have come to appreciate the power of active listening, empathy, and a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of others. This has proven especially instrumental when implementing and managing change — an ever-present factor in the realms of sustainability and process improvement, as well as packaging innovation.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

It begins with cultivating an inclusive environment throughout the value chain, supported by mentorship and sponsorship programs, robust career development initiatives, and exible work policies that acknowledge the unique challenges faced by both women and men in balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

Has there been a woman in your life who has inspired or mentored you? Who was she and what did you learn from her?

Many women have inspired me in my life, but very recently I had the opportunity to see Jane Goodall speak. Though her work has touched me in many ways during my entire life, mentoring me from afar, watching her speak live was extremely helpful in experiencing how strength, grace, and humility can change the world in a very palpable way.

Her presence and humility moved the room and left us all inspired to continue to love and take care of nature. Her commitment to bringing to light new ways of observing nature reinforced how she transformed the world of science by giving a voice to the earth and its inhabitants, continuing to inspire me to remain curious, passionate about my mission and committed to bring storytelling to the world of science.

As a result she continues to be a source of inspiration on how to advance my work in packaging sustainability and how to shape my leadership to inspire change.

ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES

Location: New York, NY

Company Revenue: $17.7

billion net sales

Employees: 60,000+

Industry: Personal Care

RENEE WIERENGA OPERATIONS

MANAGER

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. I started my career in the automotive industry with experience in human resources and procurement. The transition from automotive to packaging was the best decision I have ever made. The packaging industry is so diverse and always evolving. There are so many innovative companies that are always trying to come up with the latest and greatest ways to truly make an impact for their customers.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

I look at gender as more of an opportunity rather than a challenge, to educate and prove that everyone has a place in the manufacturing industry. One challenge I have faced as a woman is feeling intimidated as the only female in a room full of men. I use my grit and determination to speak loudly in a room where I otherwise may not be heard. The opportunity comes when we can take the special skills of men and women to bridge the gap and offer different perspectives to come to the best possible outcome for all parties.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

Large associations like PMMI already offer several career building workshops and networking opportunities. Knowledge of these programs needs to be increased and spread across all ages of women in the industry and women interested in joining the industry.

A mentor program for up-and-coming professionals would be a great opportunity. Hearing from and being encouraged from women in leadership roles can be transformative. The biggest disservice we can do for the packaging world is to not harness the upcoming talent because they aren’t aware the packaging industry exists, or don’t feel as if they have a place in it. I feel that if we start introducing the industry before the future workforce decides their career path, the number of women in leadership positions will grow naturally.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? Network! Join packaging groups in college, get tours of businesses in the industry, talk to people, and understand the market. There are so many facets to packaging that the opportunities are endless. Find a mentor in the industry and really push yourself to be the best you can be. Others will see the efforts and will want to help you be successful. Remember to work hard and always be open to learning something new.

SPARTAN PARTS, A DIVISION OF FOGG FILLER, A PROMACH PRODUCT BRAND

Mission: Design-Create-Improve. We are professionals that enjoy solving complex customer needs by providing custom part design and fabrication for commercial equipment that makes your process run smoother and your products more pro table.

Location: Holland, Michigan

Leadership: Dale Newton – VP and General Manager

Revenue: Spartan Parts revenue is $3 million of Fogg Filler’s $60 million

Employees: 150-200

Facility: Two locations totaling over 219,000 sq ft.

Markets served: Global

Industries: Food and beverage, medical, and personal care.

Product range: Machine parts and upgrades for the owable liquids industry. Specializing in gravity lling machines, bottle rinsers, cappers, and bottle handling parts.

MARGRET OOLDERS

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

My parents had a distributor business. My mother was the warehouse manager, surrounded by all men. I think because of my upbringing, I don’t even realize it when I am the only woman in the room until people point it out. After I started at Glenroy and gained respect from all the teams around me, being a woman has never been an advantage or disadvantage. Everyone has treated me with the utmost respect. We have a great culture with long tenured people, a lot of knowledge, and open to new ideas.

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

I think my success is based on a no-nonsense approach. I try to listen a lot to the experts around me and try to nd gaps that we can tackle as a team. People usually know the answers for their problems and need their voices to be heard. I am not afraid to make changes and try new things. Especially in a nimble company such as Glenroy, you can be a driver for change and adjust quickly where necessary.

Success is when someone, or a team, feels empowered enough to initiate and nish a project on their own. Sometimes a change or project does not have the desired outcome, but you always learn from it. I try to instill that attitude with everyone around me.

Lastly, I rmly believe we need to have some fun and you cannot take yourself too seriously. We spend our most productive hours at work and having some fun creates a more positive and creative environment.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

It is not complicated. We need to reward and promote people based on work performance. Include women in the conversations, give them a voice at the table that makes the decisions, and you will see a stronger, bolder company arise. It is also important to give women the tools to excel. It’s especially important for women in leadership positions to mentor and teach young women to pass down what they have learned.

GLENROY, INC.

Mission: To be the rst-choice partner for value-added sustainable exible packaging solutions through a relentless commitment to our customers’ success.

Location: Menomonee Falls, Wis

Leadership: David Corsaut, President & CEO

Revenue: : Privately-held. Revenue not disclosed.

Employees: 230+

Markets served: Flexible Packaging

Industries: Food and beverage, household products, personal care, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, pet food and treats, nutritional, cosmetic, medical device, and industrial.

Product Range: Film/roll stock, zipper pouches, spouted pouches, premade STANDCAP pouches, slider pouches, TruRenu® Recyclable STANDCAP, TruRenu® Store Drop-off recyclable* lm/roll stock, TruRenu® Store Drop-off recyclable* zipper pouches, TruRenu® post-consumer recycled (PCR) lm/ roll stock, TruRenu® post-consumer recycled (PCR) zipper pouches, TruRenu® post-consumer recycled (PCR) spouted pouches, TruRenu® post-consumer recycled (PCR) STANDCAP pouches

* pre-quali ed for Store Drop-off recyclable label

GOOD FOODS GROUP LLC

Location: Pleasant Prairie, Wis.

Company Revenue: More than $200 million

Employees: Approximately 300 Industry: Ready-to-Eat Refrigerated Foods

JOYCE LONGFIELD

Principal of High Pressure Processing Applications

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

Having male role models. Being a woman, I already have the woman’s intuition box checked every day. Early on in my career, I had two male role models that were very different from one another. Seeing how they interacted with clients in meetings and dinners was incredibly valuable. That again, you can’t get from a classroom. Being open-minded to this opportunity is the rst step. Thinking that because I am a woman, I will approach my career from this perspective and that I need to have a female role model is too close-minded.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

Between companies and organizations like PMMI and PPWLN [Packaging and Processing Women’s Leadership Network], more events are highlighting the successful careers women have had in the packaging industry. My career was nowhere to be studied, and if I hadn’t had the con dence in myself, my capabilities to think outside the box, ability to be independent and self-suf cient, I probably would have been too scared to take a risk on an industry I knew nothing about at the time.

Has there been a woman in your life who has inspired or mentored you? Who was she and what did you learn from her? Hands-down, my daughter. She has been my greatest daily challenge with social anxiety and ADHD. It’s been a constant battle to support her and not turn to medication. She is the reminder that when you love something you will put yourself through mental and emotional exhaustion, but the reward of hard work is worth it.

Helping her reinforced my patience but also reminded me that everyone learns differently and that if a colleague and I don’t see eye to eye on something, is there something I can do to either see it from their perspective or come up with a solution that achieves the overall goal. Not everything has a direct path and orderly procedure, but in manufacturing we rely heavily on procedures and order that we can get lost in the bureaucracy of the of ce and forget that we are all still human and still need to build healthy relationships by treating one another as a human.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? Always look within for your motivation. It is no one else’s responsibility to make you happy but your own. If you love your career eld but you are not happy because of the people around you (male or female), or your pay, don’t look to change others. You need to be your own advocate for yourself and your needs.

It is your choice to either adapt, change, evolve or move on. Do not accept unhappiness because you fear what else is out there. Find the con dence within yourself to go out there and get exactly what you want in life and don’t accept anything less because you are worth it and you are beyond capable of achieving every possibility.

CHARLOTTE ASHCRAFT

Manager, Packaging & Graphic Development

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. During my junior year of college at Rochester Institute of Technology, I was really struggling with my upper level electrical classes. I’m such a visual and hands-on person [and] you can’t see electricity. I met with a career advisor at the school, explained my struggle, and she suggested I look into packaging science. I met with the packaging department chair a few days later, changed my major that same day, and never looked back!

What is the most rewarding part of your job today?

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the results of my work throughout the entire packaging value chain. By collaborating with other stakeholders, I can ensure the packaging I develop will process through our manufacturing operation, protect the product during distribution, display well at retail stores, and deliver a high-quality product into the hands of a consumer. Working for a smaller company, I get to work on every aspect of packaging, and can make a difference.

What are the unique opportunities for women in this industry?

Women have a lot to bring to the table and can help diversify perspectives in all roles throughout the industry. Diversi ed leadership can help to create a balance that is more inclusive, relatable, resilient, adaptable, and collaborative. Diversi ed project teams can lead to more creative problem solving and innovation.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

Promote mentorship, encourage networking, and provide leadership development programs speci cally targeted towards women. Collectively, I think the the entire industry can bene t from challenging stereotypes to address unconscious biases.

Has there been a woman in your life who has inspired or mentored you? Who was she and what did you learn from her?

My mom has always been my biggest supporter. I attribute my proactive and supportive working style to her, along with my communication skills. Also, my former boss Becchi, who mentored me both as an intern and when I returned to the company as a packaging engineer. She taught me so much about the packaging industry and working as a professional in general. I think the best thing I learned from her is to understand how your work affects the full value and supply chains. Knowing the person’s job before you and after you makes you a better team member.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? Packaging is such a rewarding and fun career, and while it seems small, there are so many opportunities in the industry. Even if your interests change as you progress in your career, there are plenty of options to transition to different areas within the industry and diversify your skills.

JUST BORN QUALITY CONFECTIONS

Location: Bethlehem, Pa.

Company Revenue: Not available

Employees: 600 Industry: Confectioner

MARS, INC.

Location: McLean, Va.

Company Revenue: (estimated revenue in last year) $45 billion

Employees: 140,000+

Industry: Snacking, nutrition and petcare

ALLISON LIN

Global Vice President of Packaging Sustainability

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry? It’s not a secret that the packaging industry is still heavily male dominant. Similarity bias drives recruiting practices to keep the status quo, and companies and individuals need to make a purposeful, conscious effort to break that cycle. I’ve seen a lot of diverse talent join the packaging industry and then leave it because they did not feel welcomed and valued. It can be intimidating if no one you work with looks like you.

What are the unique opportunities for women in this industry?

Addressing packaging waste is a global challenge that will require fresh and diverse perspectives, innovation and new systems-thinking to tackle. I believe that underrepresented demographics in this industry, such as women, will play a pivotal role in accelerating the solutions needed to create a more sustainable future. And as with any consumer-facing business, companies will be more successful if their employee base represents their customer base. Darwin is often misquoted, it’s not survival of the ttest, it’s survival of the most adaptable, and diversity drives adaptability.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

I believe in the “lift as you climb” principle. I had and still have great mentors and sponsors, and always seek to pay that forward. With more women entering the packaging and sustainability world now, I’m hoping to see more programs that support and encourage women to both join and remain in the industry, where they can hopefully both see representation at all levels and feel like they are working in an inclusive environment.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging?

I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors along the way, as well as role models and male allies. Not just women, but everyone should have a mentor. They can be found either internally or externally, from industry associations, conferences to LinkedIn these days. I also like the power of reverse mentorships.

For example, Mars is working to foster a more inclusive workplace across numerous intersections. We now have more than 50 associate resource groups (ARGs), which we’re leveraging to create spaces and communities for associates of every race, ethnicity, culture, and background to freely and safely engage and express themselves and act as an ally.

We’re also committed to creating opportunities for women to reach their full potential. We’ve already achieved equal pay for our associates and are expanding childcare bene ts and exible hybrid working; challenging stereotypes and bias in our advertising; and investing $1 billion in our diverse supplier program, $500 million of which is women-led.

Last year, we also launched a global listening study called #HereToBeHeard to amplify the voices of more than 10,000 women across various intersections — including race, age, sexuality, religion, disability, and more. Mars is leveraging insights from this meaningful dialogue to design and implement new policies and actions to further inclusion.

RACHAEL TOMASELLO

Global Director of Strategic Capabilities, Business Colleges

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. I began my career managing the global supply chain at Da-Lite Screen Company, and then joined Mars in 2011, moving from procuring indirect services, to raw material procurement, to our global capital buying team sourcing the equipment to make M&Ms and Skittles, as well as our gum packaging equipment. Most recently, I moved to the role of global director for strategic capabilities leading our learning and development agenda for supply, procurement, R&D, sales and marketing.

What is the most rewarding part of your job today?

Today I get to live out my purpose of inspiring people and teaching them to trust themselves on a daily basis. I lean on my years of functional expertise to bring capability strategies to life serving both our associates through world class development and learning experiences, and Mars by enabling our future strategies. The most rewarding moments in my job are those where I see the impact of a development program on an associate, witnessing the shift in their presence, their con dence and their ability, in real time.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

Being a minority in any situation comes, by de nition, with the bene t of holding an uncommon perspective. The challenge is gaining the respect and visibility to share that perspective productively. For the rst half of my career, I often found myself the only female and the youngest person in the room. While this environment provided a wealth of learning from seasoned leaders, it made it dif cult to be con dent in my ideas and ask for constructive feedback. It was much later in my career when positioned in a role working directly with senior leaders that I felt con dent enough to take the reins, resulting in a seat at the proverbial table and a voice in the conversation. I think the biggest challenge along the way was learning to channel frustration into a clear, rm opinion and recommendation.

What are the unique opportunities for women in this industry?

I encourage women entering the industry to ask questions, to learn from the seasoned professionals and to be bold in their career objectives. Assume the opportunity will be afforded to you, ask for the development opportunities you feel you need and say “yes” to the things that scare you. If you’re unclear on the development opportunities you need, ask for a mentor and utilize that relationship to leap-frog your learnings.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? Be bold and trust yourself. Leverage the years of experience and knowledge around you by listening, asking questions and seeking feedback. Be a willing participant in your career. Things happen, they don’t happen to you. Be aware of shifts in your environment and think ahead as to how you can bring value in the new paradigm. Keep going, even when you’re unsure, and the answer will present itself. Surround yourself with a team of people who are invested in your success and pay it forward to those who are coming behind you.

MARS, INC.

Location: McLean, Va.

Company Revenue: $45 billion net sales

Employees: 140,000-plus

Industry: Petcare nutrition, health and services; confectionery treats and snacks; food and nutrition solutions

T. MARZETTI COMPANY

Location: Westerville, Ohio

Company Revenue:

$1.7 billion

Employees: 3,000+

Industry: Specialty food products for the retail and foodservice markets

RATHBURN Vice President of Engineering

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. I am a chemical engineer by degree, but ever since my rst job over 20 years ago, I have been working in the manufacturing industry that packaged specialty products. I held nine different roles that included plant engineering, quality engineering, project management, operational excellence, and technical leadership. In each one of these various positions, it was critical to deliver high quality product. The packaging and packaging equipment were mission critical in making that happen.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

When I was just starting out, it honestly felt a bit lonely. I didn’t have much in common with my male peers or managers. Over time, though, I was able to build a network of male and female counterparts, and the entire packaging industry started to feel smaller and familiar. I have encountered some awkward moments, though. Some people I met for the rst time have shown a bias or made incorrect assumptions about me and my role in the organization. At networking events, people assumed it was my husband who was in the industry, and that I was his spouse/guest vs. the other way around. In sales calls, vendors have not realized that I was the decision maker in the meeting until one of my employees deferred to me for direction.

My advice is for companies in the packaging industry to educate their employees about unconscious bias, so that their employees become more aware, and avoid similar assumptions or mistakes.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

There was a period of time in my career where I was doing international travel often, and was away from home 50-60% of the month. This was when my three children were young, all under the age of 6. It was the most dif cult time of my career so far, but it was also the most fruitful.

I think the industry needs to not make any presumptions about what a woman can or cannot do based on age, family situation, or otherwise. Provide the opportunities and allow them to rise to the occasion.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? Show up. Be ambitious. Take chances. It’s an exciting time to be in the packaging industry because of the need for continuing innovation. We need diverse minds to innovate, collaborate and develop solutions for products that are needed for generations to come.

NANCY WILSON CEO

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

I take the approach that the challenges I’ve faced have often been a bene t in disguise. There will be times you are the only woman in the room, but the bene t to that challenge is you will stand out and you can use that to your advantage. You’re more likely to be remembered, so you can make what you have to say count. The challenge is you still may not be heard, but if you continue to stand strong and repeat yourself, you’ll eventually be recognized and remembered. Everyone brings unique qualities, the secret is nding out what yours are and staying true to them.

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

I’ve leaned into the advantages most women naturally have – empathy and nurturing. I also believe being customer focused is the best thing one can do in order to become successful in any environment. If you know and understand your customers, you are a valuable asset to any team. Pair that with learning the technical side of the business, and you can really excel.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

Things have already come such a long way, so we need to keep up the good momentum. I see more women then ever before in the industry. Leadership needs to support them through mentorship and education so they are ready to take on leadership positions. Executives with the opportunity to promote should make sure they are looking unbiased at the leadership team and make sure people who can bring different experiences to the table are present. Tables of all men or all women are not good. We need diversity of thought from varying perspectives driving strategies to continue to grow and be successful.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging?

Packaging is a dynamic and growing industry that has an incredible amount of job security because everything we buy comes in some sort of packaging. We work in nearly every industry, which means you’re less susceptible to cyclical changes. Automation is only going to continue to become more important, so there will be so much room to innovate. Plus, we create some really cool things that have never existed before. It’s fun! If you want to be in a place where you are engaged to keep trying new things and grow, this is the place to be.

Mission: To utilize our experience and innovation to provide exible and responsive solutions to the packaging industry .

Location: Glenwood, Ill.

Leadership: Nancy Wilson, CEO; Chris Wilson, President; Nick Wilson, Founder and Chairman; Dustin Lee, Vice President of Sales; Ryan Finke, Vice President of Engineering

Revenue: $20 to 50 million

Employees: 115

Facility: 120,000 sq. ft.

Markets served: North America, South America, Europe, and Australia

Industries: Food and beverage, wine and spirits, cosmetics and personal care, household, petroleum, chemical, pharmaceutical, construction goods, tobacco, cannabis, produce, spices, grain/mill/cereal, snack foods, dairy

Product range: Container handling machinery, timing screws, change parts, timing screw drive units, twist blocks, lane combiners, lane dividers, multi-packing and varietypacking machinery, inverting machinery, high speed can openers, down bottle reject guides, ionized air rinsers, denesters, rotary container handling machines, orienting machines, and custom machines and turn-key solutions

PEPSICO

Location: Plano, Texas

Company Revenue:

$26 billion

Employees: 70,000+

(U.S. and Canada)

Industry: Food/Agriculture

SRIDEVI NARAYANSARATHY

Director, Global Foods Packaging, R&D Senior Fellow

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

I started my career in a specialty chemical company where there were not too many women in R&D. Adding to the fact that I am a rst generation American who had a baby in the rst year of my job, I had to go the extra mile to prove my worth and value to the company. However, I was blessed with managers and mentors who helped me achieve my full potential given the challenges of balancing career with motherhood.

I rmly believe in the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and success and am proud to work for an organization like PepsiCo that is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and creating a collaborative, equitable and inclusive space where everyone has a voice.

What are the unique opportunities for women in this industry?

As the industry recognizes the value of diverse perspectives, women can bring fresh ideas, creativity, and innovation to the table, driving positive change and pushing boundaries.

Furthermore, there is a rising recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in fostering a dynamic and successful work environment. Companies are actively seeking to increase female representation in leadership positions, opening doors for women to assume key roles and in uence strategic decision-making.

What has been the most important skill you’ve developed as you advanced your career?

As I advanced in my career, one of the most important skills I have developed is strategic thinking. Strategic thinking encompasses the ability to analyze complex situations, anticipate future trends, and make informed decisions that align with long-term objectives. This skill has been instrumental in driving the success of my team and shaping the direction of PepsiCo’s packaging initiatives.

Strategic thinking allows me to assess market dynamics, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for innovation and sustainable growth. It involves a holistic approach, considering not only the immediate challenges but also the broader impact and implications of our actions.

By honing this skill, I have been able to navigate complex industry landscapes, anticipate market shifts, and lead my team in developing forward-thinking packaging solutions that meet consumer needs and align with our sustainability goals.

Has there been a woman in your life who has inspired or mentored you? Who was she and what did you learn from her?

While I have had the fortune of having one of our most senior scientists, who happens to be a man, as a mentor during my tenure at PepsiCo, I have also been in uenced by strong women in my life including my grandmother. She faced many adversities in life but faced them with courage and a cheerful attitude all through life.

JENNIFER LAWRENCE

VICE PRESIDENT OF TECHNOLOGY, NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

It can often be challenging when meeting a new colleague in the industry. You feel the need to prove your abilities and show a resume of accomplishments to prove that you belong and show value. Additionally, connecting with male colleagues can require more effort at times. I think they are cautious about what to ask or discuss. Finding common ground with small talk can be dif cult to navigate and require women to make everyone feel comfortable.

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

Persistence, tenacity, and attention to detail. Packaging is a dynamic industry, and it is critical to learn how to embrace change and help others that may struggle with it. The reason I have stayed with the same company is that I have felt supported and challenged in my career growth from a process engineer to vice president of technology.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

Blaze a trail starting with early education, active encouragement, and celebrate other women’s successes in the industry whenever you get a chance. Engage with STEM programs in middle and high school that offer hands-on experience. Creating an early link between theoretical equations and real-world applications for our youth shifts the focus to problem solving rather than on reaf rming any learned gender bias. It also helps teachers and mentors break away from their biases.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? Research different industries and roles within packaging. Seek internships with companies that make packaging components or design packaging to gain hands-on experience and see what ignites your passion. Attend packaging webinars. It may not be exactly what you are seeking, but chances are you will meet others and start to develop a plan for where you will go next.

Remember that no one expects you to be an expert coming out of school. Find and learn from unof cial mentors such as experienced employees and suppliers. Lean on people that can help develop and encourage your con dence throughout your development. Most importantly, follow through on expectations and be clear with your communications.

PREGIS

Mission: To help customers solve their toughest business challenges with innovative, progressive, sustainable packaging solutions

Location: Chicago, IL

Leadership: Kevin Baudhuin, Chairman and CEO

Revenue: $1 billion+

Employees: Approximately 3,000

Facility: >30 facilities across North America and Europe

Markets served: North America, Europe and a growing global presence

Industries: The company serves consumer and industrial market segments including food, pharmaceutical, healthcare, medical devices, agricultural, e-commerce, retail, automotive, transportation, furniture, electronics, building, construction, and military/aerospace

Product range: Protective packaging solutions, mailing & bagging solutions, surface protection lms and exible packaging lms

CLAUDIA SILVIE VAN DEN POL

CEO AND OWNER

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. I studied at an International Business School, followed up by International Technology Management. Besides school, ever since I was 15, I started joining my father on business trips and started working at Royal Apollo.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

I’ve experienced that people didn’t take me seriously. People thought that I was the coffee lady and asked me when the CEO was coming. I’ve got to double-prove myself, so they know what I’m talking about from a technical point of view.

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

Always believe in yourself and boost resilience to stand up again after you made mistakes. Be exible and adjust to the markets needs. And most important of all, surround yourself with great people.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

Empower women more. Listen and talk to women to understand how and why they have these leadership positions. It’s very important to talk about the balance between family and work life. Not only for the women, but also for the men who make it possible that their wives take a leadership position.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? Get the right education. Visualize your career and believe in yourself. And, last but not least, stand up for yourself and educate the men in the industry.

RYSON INTERNATIONAL, INC.

The Royal Apollo Group, the parent company of Ryson established in 1847 in the Netherlands, launched a new corporate identity in June 2023 that brings the two brands together and demonstrates that wherever you are in the world, a Royal Apollo Group member or Ryson, is close to you. The touch of pink in the new identity re ects Ryson’s innovative culture and joyful workplace, as well as the power of women illustrated through Claudia as CEO.

Mission: Royal Apollo Group contributes to ef cient and sustainable logistic processes within companies. We deliver high quality machines to our customers, while ensuring that we create a joyful, healthy and sustainable environment

Location: Coevorden, The Netherlands, and Yorktown, Va. (US)

Leadership: Claudia Silvie van den Pol, CEO and Owner

Revenue: Not publicly available

Employees: More than 200

Facility: The Netherlands: 22,873 sq. ft.

USA: 49,000 sq. ft.

Thailand: 17,050 sq. ft.

Markets served: Manufacturing in the Netherlands, United States and Thailand with service operations in the Netherlands, United States, Thailand, China, India, and Mexico

Industries: Warehousing and logistics, food and beverage, consumer packaged goods, Industrial/manufacturing

Product range: Vertical conveying systems, including spiral conveyors, bucket elevators and product rotators

JO ANNE FORMAN

CEO & DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

The industry had low expectations of women. In 1984, when I started, only about 3% of attendees at PACK EXPO were women. I realized how male dominated this industry was, and I was determined to be successful. I went out of my way to meet more experienced women in other elds, who were the rst females in their role or industry. They mentored me as I faced hurdles of discrimination, exclusion and/or ridicule. Over time, I met other women in packaging, and we helped each other by sharing our experiences and resources and developed our network.

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

I chose to learn about differences in gender communication styles, how to listen and stand my ground in discussions, and sidestep but not back down from dif cult situations or conversations. Why are women important in packaging? In the US, more purchasing decisions are made by women than men. Consumers perceive the package as an important part of the product. A better package can trigger the consumer to buy or try a new product. With women at the table offering a different point of view, more options are considered.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

Encouraging participation in the Lean-In program and other outside educational opportunities, making suggestions for reading and training, and being clear on the importance of fair and equitable compensation. Provide mentors who can help show the way to use their best leadership talents at the company. Provide exibility – work/life balance vs work or life choice. Talent doesn’t disappear just because it isn’t in the of ce chair. Develop opportunities for shared success, such as special projects and cross-departmental programs.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging?

It is a great eld to work in! It’s interesting, technical, challenging and rewarding. There are many opportunities for women in industries that have previously been mostly male, in all sizes of companies. Look for a company that is known for being a great place to work. Use your values as a person to guide your career path, if your actions and values align, you nd satisfaction and maybe a job you love.

SEALSTRIP CORPORATION

Mission: With 50 years of engineering innovative solutions, Sealstrip Corporation provides exible packagers with the resealable and easy-open packaging solutions that are essential to compete in today’s consumer market. The company designs and manufactures applicators that retro t to customers’ existing wrapping machinery. Sealstrip also manufactures the pressure-sensitive tapes used to form the easy open and resealable features on exible packages. As a certi ed Women’s Business Enterprise, Sealstrip Corporation is owned and managed predominantly by women.

Location: Gilbertstville, Penn

Leadership: Jo Anne Forman, CEO, Director of Product Development

Revenue: $15-20 million

Employees: 42-50

Facility: 48,000

Markets served: Global

Industries: Food/Beverage, Medical, Personal Care

Product range: Easy open and resealable systems for exible packaging.

ROSE GRAFFIN

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD & CEO

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry. Born and raised in Brazil, I studied law in college, worked for a tax advisory law rm in Sao Paulo when I met JJ Graf n (Serac founder) and discovered packaging. JJ recognized my interest when he decided to mentor me, and 20 years later I was asked to join the Serac Board.

I was appointed Vice-Chairman of the Board, and in December 2021 Chairman of the Board and CEO of Serac Holding. My background is now very intercultural, having lived and worked in both Brazil and Malaysia, now the USA, within a group having its roots in France. It gives me great pleasure to travel, visit our factories and subsidiaries, meeting our employees and customers alike.

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

Always approach learning from others who are more competent than you. I endeavor to have a good understanding of the products and services offered in the industry, building strong relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers alike. The key to success is the respect you give, my recommendation for women who want to work in this sector: Be yourself, learn, trust yourself. This industry needs you.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

Openly hire with a written direction toward the future that will promise a balance of a career and family success. Packaging is a big industry that can be family friendly, as Serac is, however it is up to the company to forge the path forward and women need to make this happen by understanding what they want and how to achieve it.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in packaging? Do your research, learn as much as you can about the packaging industry including the different types of packaging. Discover the various job roles and career paths available and offer to intern, understand what about packaging interests you.

Network to discover where in this industry you belong and most of all be con dent in your abilities and knowledge. Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your ideas and perspective. Your voice will be heard.

Embrace challenges and don’t be afraid to take on ambitious projects or tasks. This will help you grow, develop your skills, and make you more valuable. And remember to speak up, use your voice clearly and concisely, trust your instincts and know your worth.

Serac Holding

Mission: Serac’s mission today is the same as when it was founded in 1969: to create performance together with our customers in the high-speed packaging market, by providing unparalleled solutions that are environmentally sustainable, incorporate uncompromising quality and thereby ensuring customer satisfaction.

Location: La Ferté-Bernard, France

Leadership: Rose Graf n, Chairman of the Board & CEO, Serac Holding

Revenue: €130 million

Employees: 620

Facility: 206,742 sq. ft., including manufacturing facilities in the US, France, Brazil, Malaysia and eight commercial rms in India, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, Japan, China, Spain, and Mexico. Markets served: Global

Industries: Dairy Products, Food/Beverages, Edible Oils/Sauce and Dressings, Household Products, Personal Care, Lubricants & Automotive Products, Paint & Thinners, Agrochemicals

Product range: For bottles: Filling/Capping machines, Aseptic Machines, Line Integration Services, Blow Molding Machines

For cups: Filling/Sealing Machines, Dosing Systems, Refurbishing, Filling of Fruits into Cups, Line Integration Services

STACY

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

All too often, I nd myself as the only woman in the room, particularly when it comes to high level discussions and decision making. It can be incredibly challenging to break through the perceived gender roles in this industry and navigate a wide range of obstacles to ensure that we pave the way for the next generation of women to have a seat at the table.

In a time when less than ve percent of manufacturing and engineering companies in the U.S. are run by women, I feel that we have a duty to break down barriers to success so that we can inspire and support future generations of women as they navigate their own career paths.

What do you think are some of the key factors that have contributed to your success in the industry?

I’ve always believed that one of my greatest strengths is my ability to truly relate to and hear people. Whether it is our customers, distributors, or employees, I take great pride in the ability to manage and care for people, making space at the table and ensuring that everyone is treated fairly. Overlooking people is one of the surest ways to crash any company, whereas when you’re able to develop experience and perspective from all entities, you can become a stronger leader.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

It is incumbent upon leaders to constantly evaluate their policies to ensure that they’re truly working towards equitable access to opportunities for women. Whether it’s maternity leave policies, inclusive spaces for working parents, or exible work schedules, when we develop policies that prioritize our employees, we break down barriers to success, elevate those who have too often been left behind and increase our own productivity.

Whether it’s through youth mentorship programs, career days, or simple conversations with the young women in our lives, we need to be intentional about sharing our stories, and creating pathways for the next generation to see themselves as leaders in our industry.

SMC CORPORATION OF AMERICA

Mission: Our mission is to contribute to automation and labor-saving operations in industries through delivering highquality and high-performance automatic control equipment to customers in all kinds of industrial sectors throughout the world. Location: Noblesville, Ind. (Global HQ: Japan)

Leadership: Kelley Stacy, CEO/President of SMC Corporation of America

Revenue: Approximately $6 billion

Employees: More than 1,500 in the US, more than 21,000 globally

Facility: 2.6M+ sq. ft. North American Headquarters plus 30 sales of ce locations.

Markets served: Global

Industries: Food and beverage, brewery, packaging, medical, pharmaceutical, bio-pharma, semiconductor, automotive, machine tool, natural resource, mining, water treatment, power generation, steel, asphalt and aggregates

Product range: Comprehensive range of automation, controls, and process components including actuators, grippers, valves, electric actuators, ionizers, vacuum, air preparation, sensors, process gas, industrial communication, chillers, dryers, connectors, tubing, high vacuum, regulators, and training equipment.

UNILEVER

Location: London, U.K.

Company Revenue: €60.1 billion

Employees: 148,000

Industry: Beauty and Wellbeing, Personal Care, Home Care, Nutrition, and Ice Cream products

KELLY MUROSKY Sustainable Packaging Manager

What is the most rewarding part of your job today?

I love that my work directly contributes to Unilever’s waste-free world vision and helps to reduce our environmental impact. For example, helping to roll out 100% PCR (post-consumer recycled) content in our plastic bottles, which involves a huge amount of technical work and innovation.

Being on the front lines of the sustainable packaging movement allows me to actively contribute to protecting the planet and create a more sustainable future — something I personally nd incredibly rewarding.

What has been the most important skill you’ve developed as you advanced your career?

One of the values and skills I’ve learned is to collaborate deliberately – a key value that is taught and instilled in everyone who works at Seventh Generation. Collaboration is of course vital to the work we do in the packaging eld. To launch a product, we naturally nd ourselves working cross functionally within our organizations and across value chains.

Deliberate collaboration, however, is so important because when you actively seek out diverse opinions from people with different backgrounds, expertise, and perspectives, you can learn so much more. In my current role and at a global business like Unilever, being a deliberate and effective collaborator when leading a team can really help to improve decision making and increase ef ciency, especially when working across multiple geographies and packaging formats.

What can the industry do better to support women and increase the number of women in leadership positions?

In my view, companies have a very important role in supporting women throughout their careers. For example, everything from addressing unconscious biases in recruitment processes and providing exible working arrangements to supporting the work-life balance of parents. These types of considerations absolutely provide the necessary opportunities, skills, knowledge, and con dence to help women thrive and advance in their careers.

Research from UNESCO suggests that women account for just 30% of the world’s scientists and researchers, and only 35% of all higher education students enrolled in science, technology, engineering or mathematics-related (STEM) courses, so it’s really important that educational opportunities are also simultaneously opened up to help more women get into science-based careers in the rst place.

Within Unilever, 49% of our packaging R&D team are women — a balance I appreciate greatly as part of our ambition to build the most innovative, high-performing R&D team in the industry.

The Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) is a place for women in the packaging and processing community to build connections, share experiences, and be inspired.

Learn more at pmmi.org/ppwln and join us on LinkedIn.