Marhya Osheaski brings over 20 years of expertise in the chemicals and coatings industry. She is the current President of WolfRayet and has played instrumental roles at IFS Coatings, Axalta Coatings, and Clariant Masterbatches, consistently excelling in expanding business opportunities and spearheading strategic initiatives.
Marhya, What are the main challenges you have successfully navigated as a woman in this industry, and what strategies have you employed to overcome them?
The hardest part in the beginning was fighting for a place at the table. When I started my career in manufacturing, there were very few women working in any part of the business outside of customer service. Establishing credibility with customers and the commercial team took time. However, I found that fostering teamwork was crucial. By collaborating closely with colleagues, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other, we built strong, cohesive teams. Staying true to myself and maintaining my core values helped me gain credibility and build a reputation for knowledge and consistency. Each career move I made and each new team I built required the same fundamental building blocks of communication, trust, and teamwork. These have been the keys to my success.
Have you observed significant changes in the perception and participation of women in this sector over the years?
Absolutely! Over the past 20 years, there has been a substantial increase in the number of women entering the manufacturing community at all levels, from the manufacturing floor to the executive suite. This influx has created a larger community and a stronger voice for women. Additionally, early school outreach programs have helped normalize the idea that women have a wide range of career choices available to them. In the last five years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant rise in the number of women on the manufacturing floor. Companies have largely embraced this change, creating a more welcoming and flexible environment for female employees.
What valuable opportunities do you believe this industry presents for women’s professional growth?
I truly believe that the sky is the limit and now is a great time to be a woman in the finishing industry. Women bring unique perspectives and a variety of skills that are highly valuable in manufacturing. For example, women often excel in attention to detail, multitasking, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are crucial in manufacturing environments where precision, coordination, and effective teamwork are essential. Companies are actively seeking talent that stands out and takes initiative, creating numerous opportunities for women to grow professionally and make significant contributions to the industry.
What specific support or programs do you think could effectively promote greater inclusion of women in the surface finishing sector?
Continuing to educate and inform children at an early age about the availability of careers in manufacturing and the finishing sector is crucial. By creating interest and excitement as they develop, we can increase participation in the sector overall. Programs such as summer camps, internships, and high school classes that incorporate finishing into the curriculum will help promote careers in this field. These initiatives can effectively encourage more women to consider and pursue opportunities in the surface finishing sector.
Do you have a mentor or an inspiring figure within the industry? In what ways has this person shaped your career?
I have been very fortunate that there have been many people who have shaped and inspired my career in the industry. Some have provided technical expertise and industry knowledge, while others have offered encouragement and helped me navigate challenges. Collectively, these individuals have helped me grow professionally, build confidence, and develop a well-rounded perspective on the industry. My goal is to always be growing and learning! This industry has an abundance of very seasoned people who are willing to share. One of the many reasons I love the finishing sector so much.
How do you foresee the future for women in the surface finishing sector?
I believe that women will continue to open shops, lead manufacturing teams, participate in production lines and lead companies. With multiple women’s manufacturing groups growing in popularity like Women in Finishing, it is easier than ever for women to join the sector and flourish in a finishing career.
Versión en español: Marhya Osheaski, una mujer en la industria de acabados superficiales
