Alice Chambers |
The manufacturing industry is evolving, and women are playing an increasingly vital role in shaping its future.
At a recent session celebrating women in manufacturing, Lindsay Berg, general manager of global industry product marketing at Microsoft, chaired a panel of industry leaders – including Monica Ugwi, general manager of Copilot and agents for the manufacturing and mobility sectors at Microsoft, Elise Hresko, partnership manager of engineering for services at Rolls Royce, and Sandra Anderstedt, vice president and head of marketing and communications at Sandvik – to share their experiences, challenges and advice for success in the field.
The panel first highlighted how success in manufacturing often stems from a combination of mindset and action.
Hresko emphasised the importance of not overthinking decisions, while Anderstedt encouraged curiosity and proactive involvement. Berg highlighted the tangible impact of manufacturing work as a motivator, and Ugwi stressed the need for confidence.
“Women should make loose connections, not just deep connections,” said Ugwi. “Collaboration doesn’t always have to be built on deep relationships to be successful.”
Hresko then explained how challenges in the industry come in many forms, from internal struggles to workplace dynamics. She spoke about overcoming feelings of inadequacy and the complexities of managing diverse teams.
Anderstedt noted the value of surrounding oneself with people of different perspectives, saying that “diversity of mind is a good thing”.
Ugwi then reflected on the transition from academia to the workplace, where she learned that perception matters as much as reality.
“Part of the job is not only to make an impact but to make sure the right people know about it,” she said.
The session also explored what makes an effective leader. Ugwi described leadership as the ability to bring out the best in others, while Anderstedt emphasised granting team members the freedom to act without micromanaging.
“Leaders need to be good listeners and pay attention to what people enjoy working on,” added Hresko.
Berg then asked about women should approach being the only woman in the room. Hresko responded by acknowledging how it can be daunting but that mindset makes the difference.
“If you know you belong, then being the only woman in the room is irrelevant,” she said.
Ugwi then expressed a vision for a more inclusive future, before encouraging attendees to reach out beyond their familiar circles and engage with those who bring different perspectives: “I dream of a world where rooms reflect the world. The potential to be in the room should be there for everybody.”