Mentorship Matters: A Fresh Perspective from a Young Female Newcomer to a Mature Male-Dominated Industry

In the dynamic realm of moldmaking and engineering, breaking barriers is not just a choice; it's a necessity. Jane Huot, a 23-year-old mold designer and project manager, celebrated her one-year anniversary with Accede Mold & Tool this past summer. Recently, Jane celebrated another milestone in her journey: her first business trip. Jane traveled from New York to Arizona with Camille Sackett, VP of Sales & Marketing, and Angie Steingass, Marketing Manager, to a conference sponsored in part by Accede geared for women in the rubber and plastics industries. Jane assisted with the setup and staffing of her company’s exhibit and attended conference sessions. After the conference, Jane shadowed Camille on sales visits to customers’ facilities.

The experience has left an indelible mark on Jane’s professional growth.  Here is a quick Q&A:

Q: Can you share your experience at the Women Breaking the Mold Conference 2023?

The conference was a pivotal point in my professional journey. It exposed me to the challenges women face in the moldmaking industry and emphasized the importance of proving oneself. Meeting inspiring figures and realizing I wasn't alone fueled my determination to overcome obstacles.

Q: How did networking at the conference impact your career growth?

Networking created meaningful connections that I believe will propel my career. The advice and educational opportunities I received opened new doors and broadened my perspective on the industry.

Q: How do you view experiences like conferences as investments in professional development?

Attending conferences goes beyond job obligations; it's an investment in personal and professional growth. These experiences contribute to creating well-rounded professionals by offering a holistic view of the industry.

Q: Why is mentorship crucial in the moldmaking industry, especially for the younger

generation?

With the aging workforce, mentorship is vital for preserving knowledge. My mentor, Brett Lindenmuth, VP of Engineering at Accede, has been instrumental in guiding me. It ensures the wealth of experience doesn't fade and equips the next generation for success.

Q: How did job shadowing and cross-training enrich your understanding of the industry?

Shadowing in sales and marketing taught me the value of customer engagement. Understanding perspectives beyond my role fosters a collaborative environment, creating a versatile and adaptable workforce.

Q: What role does empowering women play in moldmaking, and how does diversity contribute to innovation?

Encouraging more women in moldmaking injects varied perspectives, enhancing innovation. My contributions at Accede showcase the value of diversity, not just as a metric but as a catalyst for progress.

Q: Any advice for young professionals embarking on their first business trip or conference?

Embrace the unknown, ask questions, and step out of your comfort zone. The knowledge shared by industry veterans is invaluable. Reflecting on my experience, I wish I had been less anxious and reached out to more women at the conference.

Q: How has your journey at Accede shaped your understanding of moldmaking principles?

Accede has taught me the importance of principles like mentorship, experiential learning, diversity, job shadowing and cross-training. Stepping into the unknown and embracing challenges has transformed me into a more substantial professional.

Q: What message would you like to share with the moldmaking community?

Embrace change, foster mentorship and value diversity. It's not just about breaking barriers; it's about creating a balanced and innovative future for moldmaking.