Breaking Barriers: Elevating Women in Production Roles

As a corporate member of Women in Manufacturing (WiM), Re:Build Manufacturing is excited to announce that two of our employees have graduated from the Empowering Women in Production program. Congratulations to Bernadette Sandoval, Production Lead at Re:Build Oribi Composites, and Raquel Rivera, Assistant Account Manager at Re:Build Cutting Dynamics, for their outstanding achievement!

WiM’s Empowering Women in Production program supports the professional development of women in production, production support, and shop floor positions. “Employees in production settings often have tremendous insight into the culture, products and processes that manufacturing companies need to innovate. By developing these women into leaders, we can improve the industry overall and inspire other women to explore careers in manufacturing.”

Since 2021, the program has graduated over 720 leaders, enhancing their career development, and contributing to their companies’ success. This 4-month program offers a comprehensive approach with virtual learning, a strength assessment, networking opportunities, and individualized coaching. Raquel and Bernadette shared how the program has inspired them to make positive impacts that benefit themselves, their colleagues, and their businesses. Bernadette noted, “The program helps us do our jobs better and think about how we can make others’ jobs easier.”

The program, which aligns well with our Re:Build Way Principle 12, focuses on essential skills including problem-solving, communication, time management, and leadership fundamentals. Raquel mentioned the value of coping strategies, saying, “My favorite aspect of the program was understanding how to deal with stress in the workplace and not dwelling on mistakes, but learning from them.” Bernadette noted the emphasis on goal setting, stating, “It taught us to think about the end goal and how to get there.”

A key aspect of the program is the individualized coaching sessions, which both Bernadette and Raquel found particularly valuable. Raquel shared, “My coach gave me a better understanding of what I am capable of in life if I push to be more confident in my abilities.” Bernadette noted, “We took a StrengthsFinder assessment, and I discovered strengths I never knew I had. After talking with my coach, I realized I use them every day.”

Re:Build Manufacturing was pleased to support Raquel and Bernadette in this opportunity, as it is consistent with Principle 11 of the Re:Build Way, focusing on long-term, meaningful opportunities for employees. Bernadette expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am very happy with this program. The encouragement I received to reach my next goal and not be afraid to ask for what I want in life— was a great experience.”

Congratulations to Raquel and Bernadette on their remarkable accomplishments and the skills they’ve developed over the past 4 months!