Zhao Xiaoling earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the Shandong University of Science and Technology in China and started working with PVC and chlorinated polyethylene as a mechanical engineer.
"I was very interested in this industry because I was able to witness and participate in the company's growth from a factory with a few hundred employees to a large corporation with over 3,000 employees. During this time, the company's CPE production capacity increased from a few thousand to 70,000 tons, and the application of its products expanded to various industries and locations," she said.
Throughout her career, Xiaoling went from an engineering role to a health, safety, quality and environment management position to an improvement plant manager and now site manager for Avient Corp.'s plant in China's Shandong province. Along the way, she has been honored with awards for leadership, people development and performance improvement, and she received an Excellent Site Manager Award from the local government.
In her current role, Xiaoling handles site operations for Avient's plant in Laiwu that produces protective materials including the Dyneema brand and oversees safety, health and environment; production; maintenance; quality; and plant improvement.
"One of my greatest achievements is overseeing the Laiwu plant, which has now gone nearly 1,500 days without any injuries. Safety is our top priority," she said. "Additionally, I'm proud to be a part of the Laiwu site's Bright Sky project, which significantly contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fulfills Avient's commitment to sustainable development."
Xiaoling said that, after gaining years of experience, she would eventually love to work with young people so she can share her knowledge and mentor a younger generation.
"China has a unique culture compared to other countries, which is why there are fewer female employees in higher positions. It is important for female employees to vocalize their career aspirations in order to pursue their dreams. If they don't speak up, they won't reach their goals. I aim to leverage my position to bring about change, beginning with Avient in China and extending my efforts to my external networks."