We asked a few ladies that work at Alpek Polyester in Reading, PA how they empower other women and how does it feel to work in a manufacturing industry whether they work out on the floor, in the office, or both. Let’s see what they have to say.
Rosa E. Arroyo-Vega, Age 41
Safety, Health & Environmental Manager-5 Months
Do you work in an office or a manufacturing environment or both? And what do you love about your job? It’s both and I love the teamwork environment. It is rewarding to work with a company that addresses employees with dignity and respect at every level.
In a manufacturing environment do you feel you have the same rights as the men? My personal experience has been positive. I have a seat at the table, and I am always heard, same as my male peers.
Do you have a family and how do you juggle if you do? Trying to have a family/work balance is critical to me. When working (at work or remotely), my focus is to complete work tasks and move projects forward. I set times aside to only focus on family or myself. Sometimes there is an overlap and that is okay.
How have you as an empowered woman yourself empowered other women? Part of my responsibilities is to oversee our Security Contracted Company. Recently, they promoted a woman as their supervisor. I make sure she has our support and voice when bringing up security issues. I set up monthly meetings and daily communications to follow up on work activities and facilitate resources. We are working together to make the plant’s perimeters secure and safe. Positive reinforcement and facilitating resources are great tools to empower others.
What does it feel like to work in a manufacturing environment? Not a dull moment. You get to interact with people from different backgrounds. There is always something to learn and to improve.
