As we prepare to celebrate International Women's Day on Saturday, March 8, we spoke with Brenda Lee, a Process Development Technician for global fastener supplier ARaymond at their North American headquarters in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Brenda, who grew up and lives in Flint, Michigan, shared insights into her role at ARaymond, her journey in the manufacturing industry, and her perspective on what the future can hold for women entering the manufacturing and STEM industries.

Q&A with Brenda Lee, Process Development Technician at ARaymond  

Q: What do you do at ARaymond? And what’s a typical day like in your job?

Brenda Lee: In my role as a Process Development Technician, I focus on optimizing and improving manufacturing processes. A typical day involves analyzing current production methods, identifying areas for enhancement, and implementing solutions to ensure efficiency and quality. This includes collaborating with die setters who set up the tools, after which our team processes the jobs, making necessary adjustments to achieve the desired outcomes.

Q: Can you tell us about your career path and how you arrived at your current position?

Brenda Lee: I joined ARaymond in 1998 after working at another automotive supplier, where I was involved in bumper assembly. When I first arrived, there were distinct roles for men and women, but I was determined to break those barriers. Despite being told I couldn't handle certain tasks, like lifting materials or die setting, I took the initiative to learn them and prove myself. Over time, I progressed from a production technician to materials handler, then to die setter, and now to Process Development Technician.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in manufacturing?

Brenda Lee: Originally, I studied criminal justice in college, aiming to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather, a police officer, and my uncle, a paramedic and firefighter. However, after witnessing some of the harsher realities of that field and heeding my grandfather's concerns, I decided to pivot. A cousin introduced me to opportunities in manufacturing and I found a new path that has been both challenging and rewarding.

Q: How has being a woman in a traditionally male-centered field impacted your career?

Brenda Lee: Navigating a male-dominated industry has certainly shaped my career and personal growth. Facing skepticism and resistance, I became more determined and focused. There were instances where my capabilities were doubted, and I had to continually prove myself. This journey has made me stronger and more resilient, but it's also highlighted the need for equal recognition and opportunities for women in the field.

Now with all the changes in recent years, there’s much more diversity in this field, but it was a struggle along the way. There were people who felt I didn’t belong. But as a self-taught and determined learner, I’ve managed to continue my growth in the industry.  To me, it was the first time I was told “No, you can’t do that” that got me motivated. I was determined to make it work.”

Q: What advice would you give to young women considering careers in engineering or manufacturing?

Brenda Lee: It's essential to cultivate determination and resilience. Challenges and naysayers are inevitable, but using those obstacles as motivation can drive you forward.

Also, don't be discouraged by physical demands; there are always tools and methods that can make you work smarter and overcome those obstacles. Most importantly, believe in your capabilities and don't let others define your potential.

The biggest thing for me for women in the industry is a “mind over matter” mentality. You have to set your mind straight, and whatever is thrown at you, whatever people say, let it go, and use that as motivation to get to where you’re going.

Q: What are your career goals going forward?

Brenda Lee: I enjoy my current role as a Process Development Technician, but my next step to advance my career would be a supervisor role, and that’s an eventual goal. I’ve filled in for those roles in the past.

Q: How can the industry support and retain more women in STEM roles?

Brenda Lee: Encouragement and support from management are crucial. Providing women with the necessary tools, training, and opportunities to advance is essential. Early exposure to STEM programs can spark interest, but continuous support and mentorship are key to retention. Creating an environment where women's voices are heard and valued will foster innovation and diversity in the industry. I also encourage men in the workplace to speak up if women are being undervalued, as that can have a major impact.

I would also say to parents who have daughters to teach them at a young age that it’s OK for girls to be in sports and other activities that tend to be more male-dominated. Teach them to be a confident and strong-willed young woman, to be determined, not give up so quickly, and have an inner drive to get ahead.

Q: What efforts is ARaymond making to inspire and support women in STEM professions?

Brenda Lee: ARaymond has been moving in a positive direction with an approach that emphasizes fairness and diversity. There's a conscious effort to encourage women to pursue various roles within the company and to provide the support needed for their growth and development. There’s a recognition that women’s voices need to be heard, and their input taken seriously.