Isela Fitch, Morgan Polymer Seals | Women Breaking the Mold 2024

Every company could use a little bit of magic. And for Morgan Polymer Seals, that's where Isela Fitch, a Harry Potter fan, comes in.

As a quality manager Fitch is focused on ensuring that Morgan Polymer Seals' products meet stringent standards and specifications. She does that by supervising and working to improve production processes, leading and training the quality team and managing audits and certifications.

And that everyday magic of hers is especially crucial for the family-owned automotive supplier as it works to build its reputation for quality industrywide.

Fitch began her career with Morgan Polymer Seals in June 2015, starting in customer service before moving to quality in 2017. The work she does, she said, challenges her in the best ways.

"The manufacturing industry for rubber products can be demanding, with a different challenge every day," Fitch said in an email interview. "However, if I had to mention what I like the most, it would be working with a multidisciplinary team and collaborating with different departments to continuously improve processes. Observing the positive impact on customer satisfaction and production efficiency is one of the most satisfying parts of the job."

The success that Fitch has found at Morgan Polymer Seals is driven in part by her strengths, particularly her natural leadership style, ability to problem-solve and willingness to collaborate with colleagues.

More than that, though, Fitch is committed to success without being afraid to fall short. Because in the end, she said, mistakes teach valuable lessons that allow you to thrive later on.

"I just believe that we should always try to do things in the best way we think possible," Fitch said, "and if we don't get the expected result, we should focus on finding a solution and trying again."

As a leader within Morgan Polymer Seals, Fitch—whether she realizes it or not—inspires others to achieve the high standards the company has set. And she finds her own inspiration from the people closest to her.

"In my personal life, my family serves as a daily source of encouragement that motivates me to exceed my limits and become the best version of myself," Fitch said. "Professionally, facing new challenges, continuously learning, and finding solutions for different obstacles are motivating factors. Being able to help solve problems and achieve goals effectively and with purpose is rewarding."

Years with company: 9

Years in rubber industry: 9

I think it's due to its versatility and the constant challenges it offers. In my position, I've had the opportunity to work in a field where new challenges arise every day regarding rubber, whether it's products or processes.

I believe it's a general challenge where every day we seek new ways to optimize our operations, creatively solve problems, and foster a work environment where everyone can contribute ideas for the growth and success of the organization.

From my perspective, leadership manifests in how we inspire others to grow and collaborate, seeking improvements and creative solutions in everything we do, whether in our personal lives or at work. I believe it's about creating an environment where every opinion matters, aiming together for the best results.

I love Harry Potter books. They're not necessarily intellectual or deep, but I enjoy them a lot. I like to think about a world full of magic and fantastic creatures. I'm not sure if they have any social, personal or professional impact, I just like them. I'm a true Potterhead!

I don't know, I don't have any specific one at the moment. It doesn't mean I haven't made mistakes; I just think there isn't one in particular that is more significant than the others. I believe the goal is that if we fail, we take the best from that experience so that we can improve and avoid repeating it.

Family, friends, zero work. I think it's important to enjoy those moments fully, disconnecting from work completely, and resisting the urge to document every instant for social media. I mean, I'm not against social media, but I think it's important to get back to basics and truly enjoy the moment before worrying about the photo or video we'll share online.

For me, success means having my family, a job where I feel fulfilled and happy, and maintaining good health. I believe that everything else is achieved as a result of these fundamental pillars in my life.