As Women’s History Month unfolds, we embark on a journey to recognize and celebrate the remarkable women leaders shaping the landscape of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s manufacturing sector. Their stories are not just inspiring but pivotal in paving the way for future generations of women in manufacturing.
One such luminary is Tricia Breeger, President & CEO of Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc (MEPPI). Her journey into manufacturing began as a mechanical engineer with the Westinghouse Bettis Power Atomic Laboratory, where she served the Navy nuclear industry. However, driven by a desire for direct customer engagement, she transitioned to MEPPI as an applications engineer. Over the years, her dedication, coupled with a thirst for knowledge, led her to spearhead various business initiatives within the company. Today, she stands as a beacon of success, steering MEPPI towards innovation and excellence.
Reflecting on her journey, Tricia emphasizes the value of diversity in leadership. At MEPPI, they embrace a multitude of perspectives, recognizing that diversity fosters better decision-making and enhances customer relations. With women occupying key leadership roles, companies like MEPPI benefit from a broader range of strengths and insights.
Looking towards the future, Tricia envisions a manufacturing industry that champions gender equality and inclusivity. MEPPI’s Professional Women’s Network stands as a testament to this vision, striving to attract, retain, and develop female professionals within the organization. However, she acknowledges that there’s still ground to cover. To ensure continued progress, Tricia advocates for initiatives aimed at promoting STEM education among young girls and encouraging women to pursue careers in manufacturing. Moreover, she underscores the importance of creating pathways for women to ascend into leadership roles, nurturing a pipeline of diverse talent within the industry.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us not only honor the achievements of women in manufacturing but also reaffirm our commitment to fostering an environment where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Together, we can shape a future where gender parity is not just a goal but a reality in the manufacturing sector.