On this International Women's Day, we would like to introduce the women of Millwood and offer their stories.
Across departments and the country team members share their experiences, from what it's like to be a working woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, to how young women can succeed in this industry and what challenges they may face.
Accounting
What wisdom would you share with young women joining the workforce?
“Be strong.” –Donna Ketcham, Accounting Clerk
“If you are single, a job is wonderful – go for it, be your best! If you are married, consider your priorities, know that being a stay-home mom/wife is important and a blessing and you should NEVER feel that you are less than any woman that is in the workforce. Your job as a mom and a wife is priceless. Feminism means giving women the freedom to make choices based on what’s best for them, and I’m thankful that women have the opportunity to choose between working or staying home – and to excel at either.”
–Jamie Wilcox, Accounting Clerk
Plant Administrators
What do you love about being a woman in your career?
“Working makes me independent and gives me pride and a sense of stability in life.” –Kim Yogo, Plant Admin, Leetsdale, PA
“Gives me the chance to be a role model of strength and independence for my daughter. It also gives me the chance to contribute to a better lifestyle along with my husband for our family.” –Shirley Castro, Plant Admin, Melrose Park, IL
What do you hate about it?
“Hate is a big word, but I certainly don’t like getting home late and having to deal with dinner!” –Connie Ellis, Plant Admin - Florence, SC
“I hate the fact that people confuse our kindness for weakness when we are actually the strongest beings ever created.” –Johana Gomez, Plant Admin - Cleveland, TN
What would you tell a young woman interested in your position?
“Give 150%. This isn’t just a job by any means, you have to care and want to make it better. Care about the people no matter who it is. We are a family at our plant, and people need to feel and understand that everyone is important.” –Susan Vass, Plant Admin - North Haven, CT
Human Resources & Company Development
What would you tell a young woman interested in your position?
“No two days are ever the same. If you like variety, HR is definitely full of it. You have to be flexible and fluid – you may have a to-do list, but something comes up and you need to handle that particular instance immediately, which can throw off the rest of your plans. It’s always a juggling act of what needs to be handled immediately, and what needs to be handled in the future. Work/Life balance is key to not getting consumed with work.” –Courtney Russell, Director of Human Resources
"Be determined, Be compassionate, Be dependable, Be trustworthy and learn that not everyone has good intent, for sometimes people whether is intentional or not will cast you aside for selfish reasons. Also do not stop learning, we want to think we know it all but that is not the case, you can always learn more." -Rosa Marin, Regional Human Resource Manager
“Make sure you are clear on what is expected from you and do not be afraid to ask questions. You cannot please everyone, so try if you must, but do NOT burn yourself out. Some people can’t be pleased, and that’s ok.” –Trish Rolland, Corporate Events Planner
What do you love most about being a woman in your career?
“I love empowering other women (and men!) in the workplace in their faith and life skills.” –Heidi Hathaway, Corporate Chaplain
What wisdom would you share with young women joining the workforce?
“Work hard and trust your instincts. If you are being disrespected, speak up. If you are being overlooked, speak up. I highly recommend reading the book "Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg who said, “It’s time to cheer on girls and women who want to sit at the table.” –Debora Chizmar, Director of Corporate Development
If you enjoyed reading these perspectives, be sure to check out Celebrating the Women of Millwood: Part 1.
