(Photo Credit: Machinery.co.uk)
Michelle Quinn’s path is a vivid example of how curiosity, persistence, and taking initiative can power a rise through the ranks in manufacturing. Her story offers a lot for women in manufacturing and production to learn from—and to model.
Her Journey
- After finishing school, Michelle joined Almond Engineering in Livingston, Scotland in a temporary administrative role meant to last three weeks. But her enthusiasm and willingness to help out saw that temporary assignment become permanent, and part of a much longer, meaningful career.
- Over the years, she explored different parts of the company—not just administration but also design, finance, and very importantly, the shop floor. She spent time observing and learning how components are manufactured, talking with shop-floor workers, and understanding the end-to-end process.
- Her deep familiarity with how the business operated at all levels grew her credibility. As she took on more responsibilities, her insights from multiple facets of production and business became valuable leadership assets.
- Eventually, Michelle became the first female Managing Director at Almond Engineering after many years of incremental growth and learning.
Why Her Story Matters
Michelle’s progression is not just about working harder—it’s about working smart, being observant, and embracing every opportunity for learning. Especially in manufacturing, where technical, process, design, and finance all intertwine, someone who can see across those areas gains strategic advantage.
Lessons for Women in Manufacturing & Production
Here are key takeaways from Michelle Quinn’s journey that women in similar industries can apply:
1. Start Where Opportunity Exists — Then Expand
Even if your starting role isn’t glamorous or directly in production/leadership, being present and willing to help in adjacent duties can open doors. Michelle’s “temporary admin” role was her entry point—and she made it count by being curious and helpful.
2. Learn Multiple Facets of the Business
Don’t limit yourself to one box. Talk to people on the shop floor. Learn from design teams. Understand finance or quality control. Every function you understand strengthens your perspective and credibility as a leader.
3. Be Visible in the Process
Michelle didn’t just stay in her office. She spent time on the shop floor. She asked questions. She observed how things were made. Being visible means you understand what’s happening, which helps you make better decisions, suggest meaningful improvements, and gain trust from your colleagues.
4. Mentorship & Support Matter
She acknowledges mentors and supportive management. Having someone to guide you—either formally or informally—is crucial, especially in male-dominated environments. Seek-out mentors, allies, and sponsors who believe in you.
5. Patience & Long-Term Thinking
Her rise didn’t happen overnight. It was years of incremental growth, building understanding, earning trust. For many, that kind of growth requires patience, persistence, and consistency.
Final Thoughts
Michelle Quinn’s story shows that leadership in manufacturing doesn’t only come from being technical or having a particular title—it comes from being observant, learning, engaging with every part of the process, and being committed over the long haul.
For women reading this: wherever you are—on the shop floor, in a support role, in quality control—your insight matters. Your effort to understand process, code, design, finance, production, safety, or customer need gives you a unique advantage.
As you grow, ask questions. Get involved. Find your mentors. And remember: your voice and participation help elevate not only your own career but the industry as a whole.
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WOMEN IN MANUFACTURING AND PRODUCTION 
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