Shows
The Manufacturing Shake-UpSeason One Finale: 47 women - Infinite wisdomIt’s the Season 1 finale of The Manufacturing Shake-Up! 🎉
This week Jenny Drescher and Ellen Feldman Ornato enter the studio to look back at a year of powerhouse guests and unforgettable insights from women changing the face of manufacturing in Connecticut. Whether you’re early in your career or already climbing the leadership ladder, this highlight episode is packed with career-changing wisdom, real talk, and inspiration to take into your next chapter.
In this special wrap-up, Jenny and Ellen revisit some of their favorite guest moments:
⭐ Christine Marcin (Stifel Marcin) gets real about networking fears...2025-06-1735 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpCreating safer workplaces with Leah Rumore, Goggin Safety ServicesLeah Rumore, Safety Manager at Goggin Safety Services, never set out to work in manufacturing, but when she accidentally discovered the field of ergonomics, everything clicked. Today, she brings empathy, intelligence, and creativity to her work helping teams stay safe and thrive.
In this episode, Jenny and Ellen explore Leah’s journey as a safety professional in the manufacturing and construction industries. Leah shares the secrets to successful a safety culture: connection and collaboration.
This episode is packed with insight on how to have a successful career keeping people safe, and how to implement effective safet...2025-06-1022 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpQuality Assurance is a mindset with Kamila Allen, Click BondKamila Allen believes that great manufacturing is like a symphony—every department playing its part in harmony. In this episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, Kamila shares her unique perspective as a Quality Assurance leader at Click Bond, where she ensures processes and people align with excellence.
Kamila’s story starts on the factory floor. As a high schooler needing money for college, she skipped retail jobs and entered manufacturing, first packing needles, then moving across sectors including medical devices, automotive, aerospace, and even working with explosives. These diverse experiences gave her a horizontal view of manufac...2025-06-0320 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpHands-on learning is for everyone with Alex Hatem, General Dynamics Electric BoatWhat does it take to lead in today’s manufacturing world? According to Alex Hatem, it takes trust, humility, and hands-on learning.
In this episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, hosts Jenny and Ellen speak with Alex Hatem, Manager of Enterprise Learning Programs at General Dynamics Electric Boat, whose career path has taken her from engineering to supervising operations on nuclear submarines...and now to leading enterprise-wide learning initiatives.
Alex shares how her early experiences laid the groundwork for a career based on curiosity, connections, and problem-solving. She dives into the evolution of her work, from hands...2025-05-2720 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpCollaborating to build a talent pipeline with Kelli-Marie Vallieres, Office of Workforce StrategyKelli-Marie Vallieres, PhD learned first-hand – at her family’s manufacturing business – that leading well means learning first and then supporting her team from a place of understanding. That approach, rooted in humility and curiosity, became the foundation for a remarkable career journey.
In this episode, Kelli-Marie shares how the power of applied learning, genuine collaboration, and relationship-building led to national best practices like the Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative. And how that initiative led to her role at Chief Workforce Officer with Connecticut’s Office of Workforce Strategy.
Kelli-Marie talks about:
Asking questions before trying to lead
Collabora...2025-05-2024 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpWorking hard and creating opportunities with Jacqueline Gallo, Pursuit AerospaceJacqueline Gallo’s career path in manufacturing is nothing short of inspiring. From a small town in Rhode Island to EVP at Pursuit Aerospace, she climbed the ranks by saying “yes” to the toughest challenges. Then she built a leadership style grounded in compassion and continuous improvement.
In this episode, Jacquie shares how her team pioneered second chance employment programs that provide training and jobs to formerly incarcerated individuals, which cuts recidivism rates dramatically. Her work is a bold example of what’s possible when manufacturing leaders look beyond traditional pipelines.
Jacquie also explains how Kaizen and...2025-05-1320 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpMeet people where they are with Jen Anderson, Whelen EngineeringJennifer Anderson, Vice President of Human Resources at Whelen Engineering, is proof that HR can be as innovative and essential as any technology. With Whelen boasting a workforce that’s 39% women - well above the national average - Jen joins Ellen and Jenny to share the human-centered strategies that are reshaping the workplace.
This episode dives into Jen’s journey as an HR innovator, and how Whelen’s deep culture of inclusion, connection, and long-term employee investment has built more than just a loyal workforce, a thriving one.
You’ll hear how Jen reintroduced engagement surveys th...2025-05-0620 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpInnovation in Miniature with Marietta Lee, The Lee CompanyMarietta Lee never imagined she’d one day run the family business. With a law degree and a thriving career in legal journalism, manufacturing was nowhere on her radar. But when she moved back to Connecticut to be closer to family, the opportunity to join the Lee team changed her path.
In this episode, Marietta shares how The Lee Company has remained innovative by being intentional about its future. She details their unique family employment policy, which sets rules for family members coming into the business. It’s about protecting and respecting the business, its employees, and its c...2025-04-2922 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpEmbracing lifelong learning with Lara Mouakar, ASMLWhen Lara Mouakar moved from Lebanon back to the U.S., she never imagined she’d land in high-tech manufacturing. With a background in adult education, Lara could have settled into a new role in education. Instead, she took a huge risk on a third-shift group lead role at ASML and found a whole new career path!
In this episode, Lara shares how she overcame the challenge of leading in an unfamiliar industry. She talks about building trust, fostering growth, and using her educator’s mindset to develop strong, skilled teams. Now, as a Senior Learning Specialist, Lara’s...2025-04-2221 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpBuilding Culture on a Global Scale with Lee Ulinskas, ebm-papstHow do you build strong culture in a global company—and make it feel local?
In this episode, Ellen and Jenny sit down with Lee Ulinskas, Employee Engagement & Development Manager at ebm-papst, to explore what it really means to create meaningful workplace culture across locations, languages, and time zones.
Lee shares how her role is to nurture culture, collaboration, and continuous learning—while also navigating regional differences between locations in Connecticut, Tennessee, and Germany. Her career path has given her a unique perspective and now she's now a driving force behind culture-building initiatives that make a real differ...2025-04-1521 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpOvercoming overwhelm through work prioritization with Ellen and JennyAre you drowning in “urgent” tasks and feeling like there just aren’t enough hours in the day? You’re not alone! In this episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, hosts Jenny and Ellen tackle the all-too-common struggle of overwhelm.
They break down the hidden traps that lead to burnout, including the myth that everything is urgent, the pressure to do it all yourself, and the curse of competence—where being good at something can sometimes hold you back from achieving more.
Jenny and Ellen share their own experiences as recovering workaholics and explore practical strategies to break free...2025-04-0820 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpWhat young manufacturers want with Gina Greco, PTA PlasticsWhat makes a great place to work for the new generation of manufacturers? Just listen to Gina Greco!
Gina, an Automation Engineer at PTA Plastics, was bribed by her professor (for extra credit) to attend her university's STEM career fair. That small push led her to a booth that stood out: a company with a robot on display and, more importantly, a team of women excited to welcome her. That conversation landed her a job where she thrives today, building cutting-edge automation solutions in injection molding.
In this episode, Gina shares her journey into manufacturing, ho...2025-04-0117 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpThe Power of Persistence with Adrienne Henry, RayGinn ManufacturingAdrienne Henry was just 14 years old when she found a passion for manufacturing! Now a CNC Machinist at RayGinn Manufacturing, Adrienne is proving that persistence, curiosity, and hands-on learning can build an incredible career.
Adrienne talks to Ellen and Jenny about how she combats imposter syndrome, how she gains confidence from the tangible results of her work, and why her company’s flexibility is a valuable key to her success as both a student and a machinist.
Ellen and Jenny dig into Adrienne’s story, uncovering key themes about self-belief, perseverance, and finding the right work env...2025-03-2518 min
Manufacturing Meet UpManufacturing Needs WomenThe meet-up is getting a shake-up! In the season 2 premiere, Ed and Alvaro welcome Ellen Feldman Ornato and Jenny Drescher from the"Manufacturing Shake-up" podcast to explore how women are transforming the manufacturing landscape. Highlights include: Smashing the "dark, dirty, dangerous" stereotype of factory work Why manufacturing offers lucrative career paths with work-life balance How technology is leveling the playing field for all workers Creating inclusive environments that boost innovation Practical strategies to attract and retain diverse talent From apprenticeships to leadership roles, manufacturing...2025-03-1937 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpCompany culture is the secret weapon with Jenny and EllenIf you're struggling to attract or retain… generally it comes down to something going on in the internal climate of the organization that is undermining your efforts.
Workplace culture has an undeniable impact on morale, retention, and business success.
In this episode, Jenny and Ellen dive deep into the influence of workplace culture on hiring, retention, and overall company success. They discuss:
The dangers of toxic employees.
The connection between culture and Connecticut’s workforce shortage.
How companies build strong, positive cultures that attract and retain great employees.
Practical strategies for improving employee engagement, including...2025-03-1819 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpThriving as a young woman in manufacturing with Paige Raffaele, East Branch EngineeringPaige Raffaele is redefining what it means to be a young woman in the manufacturing industry. Unlike generations before her, Paige hasn't absorbed the narrative that manufacturing was a hard place for women. Instead, she's been part of the new workplace – a space that has been welcoming to young women like her.
In this episode, Jenny and Ellen chat with Paige about her journey from Abbott Technical High School to Naugatuck Valley Community College and into a full-time role as a Machine Operator and Programmer at East Branch Engineering. Along the way, she’s been supported by an incredi...2025-03-1117 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpCreating work environments that work with Jennifer Gaggion, Design Your MondayWhen you walk into your workplace, do you feel inspired and energized? Or does it feel like you've stepped back in time to 1965?
This week on The Manufacturing Shake-Up, we sit down with Jennifer Gaggion, Industrial Interior Designer at Design Your Monday, to discuss how thoughtful design can revolutionize manufacturing spaces—boosting productivity, employee engagement, and even revenue.
Jennifer explains why manufacturing and interior design go hand in hand, and how these 3 small, intentional changes can create a major impact:
Integrate Your Brand Into Your Space – Whether it’s a bold feature wall, company colors, or stra...2025-03-0422 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpCreating useful disruption with Rene Parrinello, LegrandSustainability in manufacturing isn’t just good for the planet—it’s smart business. In this episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, Rene Parrinello, Corporate Sustainability Specialist at Legrand North and Central America, shares how small changes can create big impact.
She shares the importance of documenting environmental impacts from raw material sourcing to end-of-life product disposal and how data-driven decisions can lead to cost savings, better efficiency, and a smaller carbon footprint.
Did you even know this was a job you could do too!!
Rene, Ellen and Jenny discuss:
✅ Sustainability as a business strategy—...2025-02-2524 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpEarly STEM exposure leads to amazing careers with Hope Kavulich, SynecticFrom early tinkering to a career turning cutting-edge ideas into real-world products, Hope Kavulich has always been driven by curiosity. Now in Product Realization at Synectic, she helps transform concepts—mostly medical devices—into manufacturable, life-changing products.
In this episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, Hope shares how early exposure to robotics and hands-on learning led her to mechanical engineering at Quinnipiac University. At QU, she helped launch a makerspace and taught others how to use their creativity to create and build things too. That passion for building and problem-solving now fuels her work, optimizing manufacturing processes and ensuring desig...2025-02-1817 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpSmall changes make a big impact with Alethea Schaeffer, Form-All Plastics/USHECOAlethea Schaeffer, Owner of Form-All Plastics and VP of Sales and Marketing at USHECO, is not only steering the ship of her family’s 60-year-old plastics manufacturing business, she’s also leading her own company through its next chapter of growth—all while balancing family life across two states.
Alethea shares her journey of leadership, delegation, and cultural transformation. Discover her work in formalizing communication structures, implementing best practices, and fostering a team-oriented, workplace culture that drives innovation and success.
Alethea also opens up about the personal side of leadership. She shares her morning routine, built arou...2025-02-1120 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpOvercome challenges through a learning mindset with Raji Kompalli, LATICRETEWhat if life’s challenges weren’t roadblocks but stepping stones to something greater? This week, Jenny sits down with Raji Kompalli, VP of Research and Development at Laticrete, to explore the powerful mindset shifts that have propelled her remarkable career.
Raji shares how her journey from a bench scientist to a leadership role was driven by persistence, adaptability, and embracing support systems. Her story includes a pivotal moment when a visa lottery rejection forced her to return to India, only to find a way back to the U.S. and build a thriving career.
Key the...2025-02-0421 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpBreaking stereotypes and building a career with Melissa Mazo, Straton IndustriesHow do you find a workplace that truly fits? For Melissa Mazo, Manufacturing Engineer Manager at Straton Industries, the answer lay in meaningful conversations, a culture of respect, and the power of a clean manufacturing facility. In this episode, Melissa shares her journey from a CT technical high school to leading in aerospace manufacturing, all while defying stereotypes and creating space for others to succeed.
Melissa’s story begins with curiosity—learning how to create something tangible and meaningful as a teenager—and evolves into a career that blends technical mastery with leadership. Along the way, she overcam...2025-01-2820 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpTake a moment to reflect with Lena Geliga, Hygrade Precision TechnologiesIn this episode, Lena Geliga shares invaluable lessons about personal growth, effective communication, and learning through failure. Now Operations Manager at Hygrade Precision Technologies, Lena talks about her career journey starting in retail and now leading operations in a high-precision manufacturing environment.
Lena’s story emphasizes the importance of asking questions and embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth. From setting boundaries to recognizing your value in the workplace, Lena’s insights can help you navigate a fulfilling career.
Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with tips, inspiration, and shake-up factors that will help you transform...2025-01-2121 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpTaking career leaps with Kristen Tangarone, KTJones Management ConsultingEver faced a moment where you knew you had to leap into the unknown to chase your dreams? In this episode, we talk to Kristen Tangarone, founder of KTJones Management Consulting, about the daring career pivots that shaped her journey.
Kristen shares how she transitioned from 20 years in traditional manufacturing to spearheading operations in the emerging cannabis industry. Then most recently, she launched her own consulting business. Along the way, she reveals the leadership lessons she’s learned in navigating high-pressure environments, building team consistency, and adapting skills across industries.
Ellen and Jenny discuss with Kristen...2025-01-1422 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpWhat would Grandpa do? with Jaclyn Epstein, MICA CorporationJaclyn Epstein, COO of MICA Corporation, shares how her leadership is inspired by her grandfather’s values of doing good and doing right.
Jaclyn explains how the words 'care' and 'careful' perfectly describe manufacturing as they drive decision-making, quality, and trust in the workplace.
She discusses how she tackles challenges through self-awareness and vulnerability. She also shares her tips on how to take on tough conversations.
Her story highlights how embracing vulnerability, fostering trust, and aligning actions with values can inspire growth and create meaningful impact in any career.
Where you can find Ja...2025-01-0719 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpFrom goals to greatness in 2025 with Ellen and JennyAs we enter a new year, many of us create ambitious lists of goals—but how do we move from writing them down to actually accomplishing them?
In this practical episode, Jenny and Ellen have a conversation that walks you through the art of setting and achieving meaningful goals. They break it all down into an actionable 5-step process, making the often-daunting task of goal achievement feel manageable and exciting.
Here’s what they cover:
Choosing the goal
Discovering your "Why"
Measuring progress
Defining actions and behaviors
Embracing imperfection
If you're looking to make 2025 your b...2024-12-3022 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpTaking stock of your 2024 successes with Ellen Feldman Ornato and Jenny DrescherHow can success drive more success? By pulling it apart to discover what made that success happen!
In manufacturing, we are no strangers to pulling apart problems, doing root-cause analysis or applying Lean and continuous improvement principles. But how often do we take a pause to recognize a 𝐰𝐢𝐧 and find out what steps made it happen?
In this episode, Ellen and Jenny walk us through an exercise of narrowing down a big win into smaller parts and then pulling it further apart to discover what actions and behaviors enabled the success.
This is a great exercise...2024-12-2322 min
CBIA BizCastCBIA BizCast: Words of WisdomOver the course of this past year, we’ve spoken with some exceptional leaders on the CBIA BizCast.
Some are entrepreneurs, growing successful businesses.
Others are changemakers, leading organizations with lasting legacies in Connecticut.
These leaders have not only shared their stories, but also insights and wisdom into overcoming challenges, building successful teams.
To close out 2024, we wanted to share some of those stories.
This episode features insights from:
Jeremy Bronen, founder and CEO, SedMed
Stephen Tagliatela, managing partner, and Chris Bird, general manager, Saybrook Point Resort & Marina
Jill Mayer, CEO, Bead Industries Inc.
Meghan Scanlon, president and CEO, Connecticut Co...2024-12-1816 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpAvoiding the comparison trap with Lisa Brown, Ensign Bickford Aerospace and DefenseIn this episode, Lisa Brown, Market Segment Director at Ensign Bickford Aerospace and Defense (EBAD), shares transformative insights on navigating career growth without falling into the social media comparison trap.
Lisa discusses the importance of learning in your first year, using lateral moves to build diverse skills, and the value of mentorship and networking. She emphasizes self-reflection, realistic timelines, and focusing on personal growth rather than external validation.
Whether you're starting out or seeking to level up, Lisa’s advice will help you approach your career with clarity and purpose.
Where you can find Lisa...2024-12-1722 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpFinding the right fit with Mia Merrel, ASSA ABLOYWhat does it mean to truly find your fit in the manufacturing world?
For Mia Merrel, Director of Product Management at ASSA ABLOY, it’s about combining creativity, collaboration, and a fearless drive to learn.
In this inspiring episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, Mia shares how she carved out her role, from seeking mentorship to launching innovative projects that transformed how her company communicates.
This episode also dives into Mia’s leadership philosophy, exploring how she uses collaboration and creativity to build inclusive teams and innovative solutions.
Finally, Mia shares valuable advice for...2024-12-1020 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpEmbracing simplicity and releasing assumptions with Jayme Coates, Juniper BiomedicalOn this episode with Jayme Coates, COO of Juniper Biomedical, Jayme shares some of her key career insights.
Jayme talks to Ellen and Jenny about gaining inspiration from nature – both to clear her head AND in its simplicity. She's discovered that reducing complexity is often the key to solving really challenging problems.
Jayme's background and experience also underlines why it's so important to keep an open mind, challenge your assumptions and stay curious. She talks about career choices she thought would be boring, but later discovered they absolutely fascinated her.
Finally, Jayme concludes with so...2024-12-0320 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpFrom beauty school dropout to skilled machinist with Kristina Pacheco, KamaticsKristina Pacheco's story challenges conventional ideas of who “belongs” in the manufacturing industry and proves that career paths may be a bit winding before finding the right one.
When Kristina realized she didn't want to go into college debt, she started her journey to find a hands-on career. At first she landed on traditional female-dominated fields in the beauty industry before she realized those really weren't for her. Eventually she was introduced to the fields of welding and then machining, and she became hooked!
When starting her first jobs, Kristina thought she had to...2024-11-2519 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpBeing the only woman in the room with Amanda Wiriya, Wepco PlasticsAmanda Wiriya's story is a testament to the power of listening, being transparent, and exploring your transferable skills.
She began her career at Wepco Plastics as an Administrative Assistant, seeking stability and flexibility. But leaders at Wepco saw her potential and her ability to use skills derived from previous (non-manufacturing) roles, leading ultimately to her rise to the role of Vice President of Operations.
Today, Amanda leads Wepco’s operational strategy, finances, and human resources, working closely with an all-male leadership team to foster an environment of transparency and growth.
Amanda opens up about the unique...2024-11-1919 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpFear is a bad advisor with Beatriz Gutierrez, CONNSTEPSit down with Beatriz Gutierrez, President & CEO of CONNSTEP, a leading force in Connecticut’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Beatriz shares key moments from her career journey. She opens up about an early career situation where she doubted her readiness for a leadership role, only to realize later that she had underestimated her unique strengths. She reflects on our tendency, as women, to need to feel "overqualified" before taking a leap - a mindset she urges others to overcome.
From Colombia to Connecticut, Beatriz has navigated male-dominated environments, leveraging her engineering and business skills while continuously learning. She di...2024-11-1223 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpA purpose-driven career with Catherine Pratt, HyAxiomCatherine Pratt, Program Manager at HyAxiom, shares her inspiring journey in the world of sustainability. Charting a path through chemical engineering, she now leads projects that address one of the biggest global challenges—climate change. She takes her mission personally as both a professional and a parent.
Catherine shares how her career evolved from individual contributor to leadership, and the mindset shifts that helped her get there. Along the way, we learn how Catherine’s transparent leadership style builds trust and ownership among her team, encouraging collaboration and innovation.
Tune in for a conversation on alignin...2024-11-0519 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpSay no to toxic workplaces with Mollissa Bennett, HABCO IndustriesThis episode is for every student/young adult getting ready to start college, or step into the workplace. Mollissa Bennett is a huge advocate for the trades after finding her path in welding. She came out of a 10-month technical program with no debt, ready to work and learn on-the-job.
But it wasn’t always easy. Mollissa landed in some really toxic work environments before finally landing at HABCO Industries. She learned the hard way that you don’t have to put up with working in a toxic or unsafe environment. You are worth more than that...2024-10-2920 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpBlending art and science with Salay Quaranta, Tsugami AmericaFrom her early experiences in laser technology to her current leadership role at a global machine tool company, Salay Quaranta, Vice President of Sales at Tsugami America blends technical expertise with creativity and a passion for building strong relationships.
Salay shares how her upbringing in a family of engineers and designers fueled her curiosity and love for both science and the arts. Her career began with a degree in material science and engineering, and she quickly gravitated towards the world of lasers, which ignited a fascination with advanced manufacturing processes. Her career journey includes stints in en...2024-10-2224 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpFrom designing sneakers to building a STEM career with Raquel Bolling, CCATYou don’t need any more proof than this episode that early exposure to STEM concepts and careers can mold someone's life in a positive way.
This episode with Raquel Bolling, Technical Trainer at the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT), starts with a family that supports STEM, a school that centers STEM, and a student that thrived with that exposure.
But even with all that support, it wasn't all smooth sailing. Raquel talks about what it was like being educated and working in a male-dominated field.
Now, at CCAT, she teaches the next gene...2024-10-1523 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpBusting career myths with Amelia Campbell, TRUMPFAmelia Campbell knew she wanted to improve her life, for herself and her family. Thanks to some great advice, hard work, and self-determination, she is on the path to great success.
This week's episode is an inspirational story that starts with losing a job, but ends with a sought-after position at a great CT manufacturer. Amelia was determined to get better work. After going through the CT Women Can Weld program and getting work with the Ironworkers Union, she found herself at a machining program at Goodwin University, which then led her to the Apprenticeship prog...2024-10-0825 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpTurning a no into a yes with Monica Hilgarth, Hampford ResearchThis week’s episode of the Manufacturing Shake-Up focuses on the misperceptions we can get stuck on in our careers. First, Monica Hilgarth, Lab Services Manager at Hampford Research, talks all about how to stop taking no for an answer.
Many people, women in particular, can feel that no is a final answer when asking for things in the workplace. But Monica explains that oftentimes, ‘no’ is just a starting offer. It demands a response to dig deeper. Sometimes ‘no’ means you have to communicate better to your leaders about your request; sometimes it’s an opening to a n...2024-10-0123 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpThere are no rules in networking with Ellen Feldman Ornato and Jenny DrescherIn our previous episode with Christine Marcin, Chair of Women in Manufacturing CT chapter, we started a conversation about networking organizations and the importance of joining them for your personal and career growth...but many people simply don't know 𝘩𝘰𝘸 to network!
In this episode, Ellen and Jenny talk through some of their thoughts about the "rules" of networking. Or rather, how to throw those so-called rules out the window! Learn from Ellen and Jenny a few tips on how to enter a room, even when you're not feeling comfortable; how to be natural in a conversation instead of salesy; a...2024-09-2427 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpStarting and thriving in your manufacturing career with Cristal Velez, Novo PrecisionCristal's manufacturing story starts with her arrival from Puerto Rico after losing everything to natural disaster. It continues with her college graduation just a couple months ago. And it moves forward with an incredible future in manufacturing!
This is a story of Cristal's perseverance, but also of the life-changing power of a career in manufacturing.
Ellen and Jenny talk to Cristal about her first steps into manufacturing, her return to school, and how she uses networking to learn and grow. Cristal is so proud of how far she's come, and she should be! She's happy to...2024-09-1723 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpWomen in Manufacturing CT with Christine Marcin, Chair WIM CT and Partner, Stifel MarcinThere are many outstanding manufacturing organization you can be part of in CT. One that's nearest and dearest to our hearts is the Women in Manufacturing Connecticut Chapter. This group provides networking and educational opportunities, both locally and nationally, to help women in the industry to connect and develop their career.
On this episode, Ellen Feldman Ornato speaks with chapter Chair, Christine Marcin. They not only talk about the value of the organization, but also discuss topics like 'how to get your boss's buy-in to take part in events" and "how to prepare yourself for a networking event...2024-09-1022 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpMillion Women Mentors with Colleen Bielitz, SCSU and Million Women MentorsIf there's one thing we've learned in our first 10 episodes, it's the incredible power of mentorship on the careers of our guests. So, we are THRILLED that the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing has sponsored a new mentorship community, through Million Women Mentors Connecticut, that aims to connect mentors and mentees across STEM fields, starting with manufacturing.
On this week's episode, we talk to Colleen Bielitz, the state leader for Million Women Mentors and the AVP of Strategic Initiatives and Outreach at Southern Connecticut State University. Colleen talks us through what it means to be a mentor and what...2024-09-0321 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpCombining Heart and Business with Robin Ritz, InCordHow do you combine heart with business and still be profitable? You lead with love and respect, and it all comes back to you.
Robin Ritz, Creative Visionary at InCord reminds us that people generally want to do more for people that do more for them. Call it the law of reciprocity – or just kindness begets kindness....but Robin has learned that you can be a good person and a good businessperson all at the same time.
This episode is truly inspiring. We see first-hand what it means to love what you do, reach your goals...2024-08-2724 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpGreat people make great snacks with Jess Westerfield, Lesser Evil SnacksDo you need a boost of positive energy – look no further than this episode! Jess Westerfield, Director of People + Culture at Lesser Evil, perfectly reflects the company's products - a boost of energy that's healthy and fun!
Jess, Ellen, and Jenny talk about Lesser Evils' outstanding culture – it's no wonder they've been able to build and retain a 70% female workforce! That's more than twice as much as the national average in manufacturing (now standing at around 30%). So, you know there's a lot to learn here.
Jess also talks about the value of building relationships to benefit yo...2024-08-2020 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpEmpowering the next generation with Rani Viroja, Accuturn & AMEPIn this week's episode, Jenny and Ellen sit down with Rani Viroja, Quality Engineer at Accuturn and Co-Chair of the Advanced Manufacturing Employers Partnership (AMEP).
Rani shares her journey into manufacturing, which isn't as straight-forward as you'd think, considering her parents own Accuturn! Now she wants to spread the word about manufacturing so that young people all across CT know about the fantastic careers available.
Rani talks about her current role in quality management and why it's so important. She also talks about the intergenerational leadership shift going on at her plant...2024-08-1324 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpFinding balance in a fast career trajectory with Brittany Isherwood, Burke AerospaceWhat does it look like to skyrocket to the top of your field? Let's find out with Brittany Isherwood, President of Burke Aerospace. Brittany's journey is fast-paced, but filled with really thought-proving ideas about finding balance.
We hear a lot about work-life balance, but balance can also be found within the workplace. Brittany talks about the value of slowing down in upward career mobility so you can learn more as you grow. She also talks about how important it is to build a village around you both at work and home. At work, that looks lik...2024-08-0624 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpPaying it Forward with Milliechel Ramirez, Carey ManufacturingNot only is Milliechel Ramirez a Process Engineer at Carey Manufacturing, she's also an Instructor at Capital Community College and offers talks and tours for high school students and parent information sessions for their parents. AND that's all in her free time from being a mom, too! Millie sounds like a superwoman, because she is!
In this episode, Ellen and Jenny talk to Millie about her journey into manufacturing. You'd never believe that Millie started out very shy and quiet, but she had mentors who believed in her and pushed her into opportunities that forced her out of...2024-07-3024 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpCultural Transformation with Hannah Belmont, Westminster ToolHannah Belmont took a winding path before landing at her family's manufacturing company. In fact, she didn't know she wanted to be in the industry until landing a job writing about manufacturing...and slowly but surely fell in love with it!
Now in the role of Talent Development Manager, she continues the important work that Westminster Tool has put in over the past 15 years – attracting the next generation of manufacturers by continually transforming company culture. Creating a phenomenal place to work and developing lifelong careers.
Westminster Tool is known for having a hiring wa...2024-07-2321 minCBIA BizCastThe Bolder Company Shakes Things Up“We love to say we’re not from Colorado,” Bolder Company co-founder Jenny Drescher told the CBIA BizCast about how the company got its name.
“It does not have a ‘u’ in it. It’s Bolder, like ‘be a Bolder version of yourself.’ That’s how the name was born.”
Drescher founded the professional training and coaching company in 2014 with her longtime friend Ellen Feldman Ornato.
At the time, Ornato owned a training and development company and Drescher had an executive coaching business.
“We were taking courses in theatrical improvisation and realizing that the skills that we were learning in improv were directly aff...2024-07-1731 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpBrewing manufacturing success with Cindi Bigelow, Bigelow TeaTea, leadership insights, giving back, speaking up, and more tea!
As a third-generation leader, Cindi Bigelow, CEO of Bigelow Tea, shares her remarkable journey of growing through many roles before taking on the role of CEO of her family-owned tea company. She talks about the value of prioritizing – you can't do everything!
Cindi shares her incredible passion for both Connecticut and for manufacturing. She talks about her belief in being a B-Corp organization and the importance of giving back to the community.
Cindi says, "people want to work with people who lift the room." An...2024-07-1623 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpSay Yes First, Then Figure it Out!Sit down with us and Farnosh Sadler from TRIUMPH. Farnosh has had an inspiring career journey. It's all about building strong relationships. Farnosh describes how she transitioned from her first job in retail and developed a meaningful career in aerospace manufacturing thanks to a business relationship she developed along the way.
Her journey is a testament to the power of taking leaps of faith, embracing challenges, and continuously growing. Farnosh discusses how she navigated various roles by saying yes first, and then 'figuring it out' second. Now she plays a crucial part in enhancing company culture and employee e...2024-07-0921 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpThriving with Female Manufacturing LeadershipEpisode 2 of The Manufacturing Shake-Up and our first with a woman in manufacturing! We welcome the fabulous Sara Fradette, Production Planner at Bead Electronics. Sara shares her journey from studying economics to thriving in manufacturing. Find out how her role in production planning keeps her days dynamic and exciting.
In this episode, Sara tells us all about the supportive culture at Bead Electronics, where female leadership and core values make a massive difference in employee happiness.
Sara shares a few key tips for young women in manufacturing - like 'don't be afraid to ask questions'. It...2024-07-0219 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpA Manufacturing Career Can Change Your Life with Paul LavoieWelcome to the very first episode of the Manufacturing Shake-Up! We're so glad you're here! None of us would be here listening to this podcast right now if it weren't for today's podcast guest, Paul Lavoie, CT's Chief Manufacturing Officer.
After realizing that some of the smartest people he knows in manufacturing are women, Paul knew he had to do something to make sure that women had more opportunities to develop and grow in their manufacturing careers. And so the idea for the podcast began...
There are so many incredible women working in this field – liste...2024-06-2529 minThe Manufacturing Shake-UpWelcome to the Manufacturing Shake-Up!What are we doing and why are we here?
Manufacturing needs a shake-up! A recent 2024 study forecasted that the US manufacturing industry needs up to 3.8 million jobs filled within the next decade. At the same time, women represent only 29% of the manufacturing workforce. With such a large gap now and into the future, there are massive growth opportunities for women in manufacturing!
The Manufacturing Shake-Up is dedicated to transforming the manufacturing landscape for women and other under-represented groups. Not just filling the gaps but creating real opportunities for growth and development. More than a cal...2024-05-2201 min
Envision RISEIn the Moment with The Bolder Company: How Experiential Learning Elicits Connection#EnvisionRISE Podcast | The Bolder Company Founders, Jenny Drescher and Ellen Feldman Ornato, tell us how improvisational theater sparked their unique approach to adult training and development that encourages learners to become their aspirational selves in and out of the workplace.Together they teach:That becoming a bolder version of yourself looks different for all individualsHow adult learning requires us to get out of our comfort zones in order to stay engaged and establish connectionOvercoming rejection and building self-confidence through experiential learningTools to becoming an active listenerHow bringing fun into our daily lives chemically creates positivity and...2022-02-0137 min
DECODING AQ - Adaptability For The Future Of Work With Ross ThornleyDecoding AQ with Ross Thornley Feat. Jenny Drescher and Ellen Feldman Ornato - The Bolder CompanyThe Bolder Company is the catalyst for the lasting behavioural change that empowers businesses to thrive. They connect individuals to themselves, to each other, and to the futures of their organizations. They also combine fully experiential, improvisation-based learning with grounded, outcomes-focused content to produce lasting behavioural change.Ross, Jenny and Ellen talk about improvisation exercises, pitching, being authentic, networking, representing themselves and how to keep going when feeling awkward. The group also discuss feeling more comfortable, teaching people with improv, giving ourselves permission, evolving, communication, being venerable and finally avoiding burnout.Timestamps:01:02...2021-07-2149 min
Artisans Who Wholesale hosted by Stefa NormantasHow To Survive The Dread of Networking with Ellen Feldman Ornato, The Bolder CompanyEpisode 22– Ellen Feldman Ornato, The Bolder Company
How To Survive The Dread of Networking and Actually, (Maybe!?) Enjoy It!
Is there anything more uncomfortable than a networking event? For most of us walking into a roomful of strangers, it strikes dread in our hearts and makes us hide in the bathroom stall or dive into the punch bowl. However, you’ve got to increase your network to grow your business. In this episode, Ellen Feldman Ornato gives us tips and new strategies for making networking and public speaking a skill you can master. Pull up a chair and take notes…ther...2019-07-1843 min