Profiles of the inaugural class members of Rubber & Plastics News' Women in Tire & Rubber will appear daily through Aug. 21. Edited profiles of the entire class were published in the July 27 issue of RPN.
Marilyn Paola Zurita
Cabot Argentina SAIC
Location: Campana, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Education: Technical High School
What drew you to the rubber industry, and what has made your career in the industry rewarding?
I saw the plant when I was 10 years old, on a school visit. At that moment, I was very impressed. During 2018, I was not working due to different circumstances but I was trying to obtain a job. I had an interview and I loved the company. When they confirmed that I will start, I was so excited.
It has been and is rewarding the opportunities to learn that I am given, always supported by the leaders and the team.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
I believe that my greatest achievement is to have obtained a job that gives me equality in an employment relationship, in terms of treatment, benefits, remuneration and, above all, respect.
What do you count as your biggest failure and what has it taught you?
My biggest challenge was to insert myself into an industry and sector that was historically formed and led by men, especially in the operational sector.
Who or what inspires you?
My inspiration is to achieve the goals I set out, to overcome myself, to show me that I am capable of achieving challenging goals and overcoming myself day by day.
Who were your career mentors, and what role did they play?
I think that my mentors have been good leaders. They accompany, teach, train, motivate and encourage at all times.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
An encouraging phrase that I received was from the (facility general manager). He told me: "Work hard, you can."
If you were CEO of a company, what would you do first?
If I were CEO, the first thing I would like to do is provide equal opportunity and social inclusion. I would be interested in giving labor opportunities to newly graduated individuals, with no experience but with great desire to work and learn.
I also would like to motivate the work teams and create bonds of commitment, seeking constant changes.
What would you tell someone considering a career in the rubber industry?
With effort, commitment and responsibility, everything can be achieved.
In your opinion, what needs to be done to encourage females to pursue STEM-related careers?
Women who are part of the industry should be recognized. These could motivate others to encourage them to be part of it.
Rubber News wants to hear from its readers. If you want to express your opinion on a story or issue, email your letter to Editor Bruce Meyer at [email protected].