Page 48 - MetalForming-Dec-2018-issue

Debra Wies
Tool Design Engineer Shaeffler-LuK USA Llc. Wooster, OH
Debra has implemented many line upgrades by thoroughly looking into assembly dies and fixtures. Forty-one years in the industry, including 33 with her current company—“I starting my career on a drafting board, and now I perform 3D computer modeling,” she says—provides her with the experience and knowhow to succeed as tool design engineer.
At Shaeffler-LuK USA, Debra works closely with production leaders and group leaders from the assembly lines, and is quite familiar with the needs of those working on the lines. As a result, she does not hesitate to include answers to those needs into new tooling and line setups.
“She became the ‘go-to’ person in her department, as, for her, no problem is big enough where she can’t find a solution that satisfies everyone involved,” says her nominator.
“When I wanted to take mechanical drafting in high school, I was told, ‘It’s a boys’ course, you won’t understand it,’ and ‘You won’t be any good at it.’ I took it anyway. Things have changed a lot since then. If she wants a career where she can be creative, reach her full poten- tial and never be bored, she will find it in manufacturing. The manufacturing industry is always changing, with con- stant advances in technology, new things to learn and new challenges around the next corner.”
Christie Williams
Corporate Marketing Manager Beckwood Press Co.
Fenton, MO
Christie has developed a strategy for, and executed, the rebranding of both Beckwood Press and its Triform line of presses. From organizing consistent mes- saging across multiple communication channels, to designing sales literature and marketing collateral, her efforts have significantly elevated Beckwood’s brand image within the industry. Her role in redesigning Beckwood's website in 2016 was crucial to improving user experience.
Christie also is responsible for manag- ing Beckwood’s presence at manufactur- ing trade shows, including FABTECH, and has exceeded company expectations in booth design, public-relations messag- ing and overall coordination of Beck- wood’s attendance at tradeshows. Addi- tionally, Christie was named a Champion of PR by PR Week magazine in 2017 because of her design and communication skills, as well as her leadership in the cus- tom-equipment-manufacturing industry.
“Never satisfied with the status quo,” says her nominator, “she continues to redefine how marketing is perceived and executed in the metalforming industry.”
“Manufacturing has offered me countless opportunities to showcase my design skills, apply critical thinking to solve complex problems, expand my technical knowledge and contribute to improving our corporate culture. I love working with cross-functional teams and watching our ideas come to life. Collabo- ration and innovation are vital, and com- placency isn’t an option.”
Jody Williams
Vice President of Business Development
Genesee Global Group Rochester, NY
During her 16 years with the company, Jody has progressed from an administra- tive position in finance to a senior sales position as vice president of business development. An 18-year industry veter- an, Jody has worked at cultivating pro- ductive working relationships with clients while developing strong communication skills.
“Jody is a company leader and has had a profound impact on the strategic direction of the company,” says her nominator. “Customers count on her to assist in solving complex problems. She has the ability to understand customer needs, provide a solution, and then sup- port the customer throughout the entire process. And, her input has enabled con- tinued growth for both the company and its employees.”
Away from the job, Jody channels her passion for excellence in helping young girls develop confidence and leadership skills through cheerleading.
“In general, women bring a different dimension to problem solving and busi- ness development. As an advocate of developing confidence and leadership in young women, I hope to instill in them that women can be successful in any field that they desire. A career in manu- facturing can be extremely rewarding, and often can change the dynamics of a business and possibly an industry.”
46 MetalForming/December 2018
www.metalformingmagazine.com