This blog series intends to shatter some "manufacturing myths".  Sometimes there is a perception of manufacturing being dirty, dead-end, unskilled, monotonous and boring.The reality is, it's bright, clean, fulfilling, hi-tech, versatile and rewarding!

I had the privilege of interviewing some Zentech employees - a way of humanizing the manufacturing industry to demonstrate why you may want to consider a manufacturing career.

What I noticed most about Robin is her cheerful attitude and the value she contributes to the team.  She truly embodies what it means to be a part of the manufacturing process!

Robin, Shipping and Receiving Lead,  Zentech Bloomington

Stephanie: How long have you been at Zentech?  

Robin: I have been working here for 5 years. 

Stephanie: Were you in manufacturing before this?  

Robin: Yes – I worked in automotive manufacturing for 27 years; I was a Production Coordinator. 

Stephanie: How did you come to work in manufacturing?  

Robin: It fell in my lap, and I just loved it. 

Stephanie: Why do you love it?  

Robin: I love the challenge, and I like the preciseness of it and how detailed it is. 

Stephanie: What’s your title now? Because you just got promoted! 

Robin: Yes, I did. I was promoted to Shipping and Receiving Lead. 

This blog series intends to shatter some "manufacturing myths".  Sometimes there is a perception of manufacturing being dirty, dead-end, unskilled, monotonous and boring.The reality is, it's bright, clean, fulfilling, hi-tech, versatile and rewarding!

I had the privilege of interviewing some Zentech employees - a way of humanizing the manufacturing industry to demonstrate why you may want to consider a manufacturing career.

Andy, Testing Supervisor, Zentech Bloomington

Stephanie: What is your title here? 

Andy: I am the Testing Supervisor. 

Stephanie: How long have you been at Zentech? 

Andy: I started as a temp in 2010. 

Stephanie: What do you like about your job? 

Andy: I enjoy coming to work. It’s a great feeling to think about where I started [temp] to where I am now [supervisor]. I like the diversity of what we build. It’s neat to see it from the start to finish, and what it’s actually used for is pretty cool.  

Stephanie: It really matters. Manufacturing is the backbone of our infrastructure.  
Were you in manufacturing before you came here? 

Andy: I went to ITT and got my degree in Computer Electronics Engineering and Electronic Communications Engineering. I actually started here in SMT and then to AOI, to Flying Probe and finally to Conformal Coat. Eventually I ended up in Testing where I am now. That’s the great thing about Zentech – you’re not stuck in just one area.