Career highlights:
I worked for 11 years in the carbon black quality control laboratory, and after that period, I was invited to work in the regional laboratory of the Americas in rubber applications, where I currently work.
What drew you to the rubber industry, and what has made your career in the industry rewarding?
I worked for 22 years in an American industry, where I am recognized and respected as a professional and as a person. I can express my opinion and knowledge without judgment.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
I worked a period in the quality control of carbon black, and after a period I went to work in the regional laboratory of the Americas, a state-of-the-art laboratory with modern equipment, where the analyses are different from what I was used to. There, I was able to know and apply my knowledge of carbon black in the rubber and check some of its properties in the application.
Who or what inspires you?
My inspiration is to see rubber artifacts with the company's product where I work, and to know that I am part of the analysis of the carbon black that is in that product.
The people who worked with me working in another country and also in other positions within the company with their knowledge and learning.
Who were your career mentors, and what role did they play?
Laerte Finotelli, a laboratory leader who taught me to be the professional I am today and passed on his technical and behavioral knowledge to me. I am very grateful for his dedication.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The person cannot find an example and think that everyone has to be equal to him. We need to respect the differences.
If you were CEO of a company, what would you do first?
I would lead the company looking toward the future, aiming at opportunities for growth and respect, equality for people including women in the male universe, being respected for their competence, remembering that many are mothers and wives.
What would you tell someone considering a career in the rubber industry?
Give your best in your activities, work as the company is yours, because the fruits will be harvested.
In your opinion, what needs to be done to encourage females to pursue STEM-related careers?
Companies need to respect gender equality, as women are as smart, strong, competent, creative and effective as any man. This knowledge generates not only respect and gains for the company, but also inspiration for new women in the rubber industry.