Shana Rubalcava's career in manufacturing started at age 18 as an operator. She quickly advanced through various roles over 10 years, including machine operator, quality technician, production group leader, quality engineer, quality manager and multisite quality manager.
Following a plant closure and subsequent layoff, she transitioned into project management, now at Woodstock, Ill.-based injection molder Matrix 4 Inc.
"During my late high school years, I developed an interest in engineering, which I pursued further while working in an injection molding company. My goal became to thoroughly understand how the entire process came together," said Rubalcava, who has an associate degree in mechanical engineering technology and is pursuing a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.
"My greatest achievement is my personal and professional growth. While working full time, I completed a degree; nearly finished a second degree, which is still a work in progress; earned nine certificates; received several lateral promotions; and, most importantly, married my middle school sweetheart and had two wonderful sons," she said.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is the current challenge for Rubalcava. She was pregnant with her first child as the coronavirus pandemic first hit the United States and had to work from home.
"This situation forced me to adapt. The challenge of balancing an already full workload with new demands and a rapidly changing environment pushed me to refine my focus and task management skills. This experience not only helped me handle a heavy workload effectively but also supported my professional growth and adaptability during a period of significant change," Rubalcava said.
"Although I'm still relatively early in my career, I have a diverse background and cross-functional experience. I am dedicated to self-improvement and learning, but this sometimes leads me to become fully consumed by new challenges or unfamiliar areas. Balancing the drive to excel with the need to manage my personal well-being remains a significant challenge," she said.
Rubalcava practices recycling and sustainability initiatives at home and at work with a company that "strongly supports circularity in plastics."
"M4 has demonstrated significant potential and success in advancing plastics circularity initiatives, which has deepened my appreciation for sustainable practices in the industry," Rubalcava said.
"The plastics industry is making significant strides in sustainability initiatives and goals, offering a wealth of opportunities," she advised. "There's a fascinating science behind it, with each application having its own unique path. If you're looking to harness your creativity and contribute to a more sustainable future, plastics is an excellent field to explore."
Rubalcava said she would like to see more women-owned manufacturers in the industry: "Their presence would add valuable perspectives and drive further innovation in the field."
She would eventually love to have her own manufacturing company, an ambition that reflects her passion for the industry and her desire to "shape and lead a business that contributes to innovation and growth in manufacturing."