I MAKE PEOPLE SAFE

Meet Jana Pollard! Tyvek® Unit Leader at DuPont Spruance in Richmond, Virginia

Jana makes Tyvek®, a synthetic material made from high-density spunbound polyethylene fibers. This material is applied to everything from mailing envelopes, wristbands, and waterproof packaging, to sterile healthcare packaging, biohazard and protective suits, and cargo covers. Jana sat down with us to talk about her career and experiences as a woman in manufacturing.

Thanks for taking the time to chat with us today, Jana. How did you get your start in manufacturing?

After graduating from North Carolina A&T State University with a degree in mechanical engineering, I became a co-op student at the Cummins Power Generation facility in Fridley, MN in 2003.

Wow, mechanical engineering? What drew you to that industry?

Well, I love solving complex problems and engineering certainly gives you complex problems to solve. I also realized that engineering provides endless opportunities to improve the culture, processes, and capabilities within the manufacturing industry.

What do you think are some of the biggest misconceptions that women have about working in manufacturing?

I think the biggest misconception is that there are no women in manufacturing. I have been pleasantly surprised in my 17-year career with the number of women in manufacturing. From the shop floor to the board room, I have seen women make an impact both within DuPont and the manufacturing industry.

It’s wonderful to hear that there are more women in the industry than you thought. What do you think are some of the main challenges those women face? How are you helping women overcome these challenges?

Some of the main challenges I’ve faced include unconscious biases and challenging the status quo. It’s important that women working in manufacturing realize that it will be challenging, but it’s a challenge they can handle.

To help women overcome some of these challenges, I enjoy presenting at local schools and conferences like SWE (Society of Women Engineers). As a presenter, I can share my story to inspire girls to become engineers and become the next generation of manufacturing leaders. I remember speaking up for a group of women who were having a hard time understanding how they make an impact within the organization. After talking through it with them, and removing unnecessary barriers, they were able to see their positive contributions to the organization.

What advice would you give to fellow women already in the manufacturing industry? What advice would you give to a woman thinking of entering the field for the first time?

To women already working - keep thriving and demonstrating that diversity adds important value to any organization. Our presence is an opportunity for everyone to learn from one another.

To women considering a career in manufacturing, I say do it! One of my favorite quotes is to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable.” Growth is learning from experiences and stepping outside your comfort zone.

Thanks again for talking to us today! One final question, what are you most proud of in your career thus far and what still excites you about your career?

I am most proud of the impact I am having on the industry and the ability to share my story. I’m excited that I am helping to solve some of the toughest challenges and be a voice for others.

What gets me out of bed every day is the fact that you are never bored in manufacturing. No two days are alike. There is always an issue to resolve or an improvement to be made. I get out of bed ready to tackle the day’s challenge. I head to work confident that the team and I will be resilient and resolve the challenges of the day.

“Growth is learning from experiences and stepping outside your comfort zone.”