6 Do you feel there is enough information and opportunities for the next generation to be encouraged to have a career in the metal casting industry? GK: This is a tough question. We are located in California where we do not have many foundries left. Additionally, schools nationwide have consolidated metallurgy into material science. All of this has resulted in an overall loss of knowledge—at the same time the industry is embracing newer technologies into our processes with can improve how things are done. AHL: I do not. In engineering school, I took one required class on material science and metallurgy. At the time, it was not for me. My focus was on production, quality and efficiency. And until I was recruited into the industry as management and a leader, I did not know much about it. It was a crash course in foundry and every day I learn more. As I stated in the question above, I do not feel metal casting is something that is shown to women as a choice whether that is in educational settings or in marketing of the industry. It is also not an industry you often see recruiting at universities, colleges, trade schools, and technical schools. I think there are greater opportunities to market to both men and women. NDR: There are definitely plenty of opportunities. The industry is getting more and more interesting and increasingly requires big picture thinking and the ability to connect different fields and disciplines. I started out marketing molding machines, today I’m running an AI and IIoT start-up and am laying the foundations for the future of foundries, together with talented colleagues around the world. Is there enough information about those opportunities? Probably not – but we’re working on it. Advice you give to women entering a male dominated environment? GK: You got this! AHL: Be yourself and do your best work. You are no different from your male colleague and what you have to contribute is comparable or better! Persistence is key. Do not give up. I am not going to lie and say that, at times, you need a thick skin. But, do your best to let things that rattle you, roll off of you and stand up for yourself. Being a woman in a male dominated industry or field does not mean you need to be more aggressive or mean to be seen. Put your head down and work hard and accept who you are as woman and do not change just to conform to the environment. NDR: I believe it's crucial for women entering a predominantly male environment to be confident about what they bring to the table. Diversity – of people, ideas, lived experiences - is a good thing and drives organizations forward. I strongly encourage women to define their career ambitions clearly and express them with confidence. If possible, seeking out a mentor or role model who can offer guidance and support is immensely valuable. This doesn’t have to be a woman, someone at the same company, or even someone you meet face to face. Choosing a company that places a high value on diversity can also be a strategic step in navigating industries that are still considered “male industries”. How important do you feel female role models are to the younger generation, and do you have one? GK: Role models are a game changer. I had my grandmother before me, that showed me women could do anything they wanted. My grandmother bought Lodi Iron Works in 1963 and ran the business successfully until she passed away in 1999. NDR: I find role models to be incredibly motivating as they can serve as a source of inspiration to pursue one's ambitions or help guide the way. I've been fortunate to have had a female role model throughout my entire career at Norican, someone who has paved the path all the way to the position of president. Not everyone is so fortunate to have a trailblazer in their business, but there are many inspiring female voices out there. You can find them writing about their experiences on LinkedIn or talk at industry events. They are a great source of inspiration and worth connecting with. Anything else you would like to add about working in such a male dominated field? NDR: I have always relished the experience of working in a predominately male and engineeringcentric industry because I find it inspiring to be surrounded by individuals whose perspectives differ from my own. However, I am aware that I have been very lucky throughout my career, and I consider it my responsibility to pay this forward. It’s what I’m aiming to do in my own teams, by championing diversity and by offering a window into our exciting industry as much and as often as I can.
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