From Retail to Robotics: Kendra's Journey in Manufacturing

Kendra M.'s career path is a testament to the diverse opportunities within the manufacturing sector.

With five and a half years at FyterTech under her belt, Kendra transitioned from a customer service role at Walmart to a dynamic career where she finds satisfaction in creating tangible products and leading teams.

While living in Nevada, Kendra attended a job fair and secured a position with an organization which led her to Wisconsin, where she later joined FyterTech through a staffing agency, and then was brought on full time. This journey highlights how transferable skills and an open mind can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career changes.

A Day in the Life

For Kendra, a typical day involves a meticulous process of managing production. She reviews current and upcoming orders, ensures all necessary materials are properly prepared, and oversees product testing. Her role is hands-on, focusing on the efficient execution of daily production goals.

What truly resonates with Kendra in manufacturing is the ability to "actually make something". She describes the transformation of raw materials, like powder, into finished products as "really neat." This tangible outcome provides a deep sense of accomplishment.

Kendra emphasizes that effective time management and forward planning are crucial for her role.

Unexpected Benefits and Moments of Pride

One surprising aspect of her job has been its physical demands. Initially underestimated, the labor-intensive nature of the work has positively impacted her health, leading to improved fitness.

A particularly proud moment for Kendra occurred when she was entrusted with managing production line 11 while her lead was on vacation. Successfully overseeing operations, ensuring product output, and keeping everything on track was a significant achievement.

This experience also revealed her aptitude for training, as feedback from colleagues highlighted her effectiveness in teaching others.

Advice for Women in Manufacturing

For women considering a career in manufacturing, Kendra offers practical advice: be aware of the physical aspects of the job, but understand that it's not solely about physical strength. She stresses that the industry offers "a lot more opportunities than you think there might be."

Kendra's story is about embracing where your career takes you, and the diverse career paths that are offered in the industrial manufacturing channel.