Page 39 - MetalForming November 2017

Barbara Nygaard
Technical Service Senior Manager Northern Technologies International Corp.
Circle Pines, MN
Barbara’s nominator calls her “the worldwide expert in corrosion prevention for metals” because during her 39-yr. career at Northern Technologies she has shaped the approach to protecting met- als through every stage of manufactur- ing, shipping and storage.
Early on, Barbara helped establish industry-testing standards, where once there were none. Along the way, her name has appeared alongside those of scientists on a number of corrosives patents. And today, she works with large companies to solve corrosion issues and create packaging systems for unique technologies and needs. Through it all, her innovations have helped reduce waste and increase reliability and produc- tivity across the entire industry.
“I have had the opportunity to evolve with the ever-changing industry of met- alforming. The possibilities are endless, and the constant demand for change lights the way for imaginative ideas and the ability to implement them. The industry is unique because it grants indi- viduals a range of fields they can make an impact on such as agriculture, auto- motive, military, mining, oil and gas, and more.”
Mary Nicholson
Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Autodie, LLC
Grand Rapids, MI
During her 30-yr. career at Autodie, Mary has risen through the corporate ranks, taking on increasing responsibility and leadership in each role, and excelling in them all. Through her vast experience, she has amassed an extensive base of knowledge regarding the sheetmetal- stamping trade, and applies that knowl- edge to guide the company.
Mary’s nominator calls her a perfect role model for young women consider- ing a career in metalforming, pointing to her combination of “can-do” attitude, perseverance, dedication and trade knowledge.
“We feel poised and excited to com- pete globally with Mary leading at the forefront of our organization,” adds her nominator.
“The manufacturing sector provides women with endless career paths and opportunities. Being part of the product- realization process, you are exposed to thousands of companies that manufac- ture unique components that make up the products we use every day. This pro- vides a view of the broad spectrum of career opportunities in which women can participate.”
Carol Schmidt
Outside Sales Representative Jacquet Midwest, Inc. Racine, WI/Cincinnati, OH
Over the course of a 39-yr. career in sales, Carol has accumulated a vast amount of industry knowledge, articu- late communication skills and a thorough understanding of client needs.
“The detailed method by which she plans her travels and executes her plan is quite enjoyable to be a part of,” says her nominator.
At Jacquet Midwest, Carol’s sales skills have helped take the company from startup to profitability in just six years. She also dedicates time to the Association of Women in the Metal Industry (AWMI), of which she currently serves as president of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky chapter.
“I have always considered myself a sales person—selling ideas to the com- pany I work for, and selling the company I work for to my customers. It’s about mutual benefit in both directions. Work- ing for Jacquet, I’ve been able to incor- porate product knowledge, material capabilities, customer requirements and manufacturing practices. Being involved with AWMI has expanded knowledge and growth for myself, my company and my customers. It’s all added up to a very exciting and rewarding career in the met- als industry.”
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