As we continue celebrating women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements, our April Associate Spotlight Series highlights Dadera Harridan, Printpack’s Quality Manager in Elgin, IL. Dadera has been with Printpack since 2007. Eager to learn and grow, she has had nine different roles and excelled in all of them.
Let’s learn more about her career journey in her own words.
1. What roles have you had at Printpack? Quality Technician, Quality Lead, Quality Supervisor, Quality Manager, Food Safety – Plant Sanitarian, Plant Lead Auditor, Plant Management Representative, and Plant Trial Coordinator.
2. Why did you choose to work at Printpack? Back in 2007, I was looking for a new opportunity in a few industries when a family member recommended Printpack.
3. What do you currently do at Printpack? I manage the Quality Department, Food Safety, Trials, and Audits for the Elgin facility. I also work on cross-functional projects for the company and Sponsor/Lead the local Quality Management Pillar Team.
4. How has this experience added to your skills so far? I have learned so much from working at Printpack. Working with a cross-functional group of people has helped me learn new processes, and it taught me that collaboration and teamwork help to strengthen and streamline processes while also strengthening my knowledge. The Printpack Performance System process has helped me develop the Six Sigma methodology. Working on DMAIC projects has sharpened my analytical skills as well.
5. What do you like most about your role and Printpack? The collaboration and teamwork, working on special projects related to consumers, being proud to say, “We did that package.” Working with customers from diverse product lines and learning their processes.
6. Would you recommend Printpack to other professionals? Why? Yes, the advancement opportunities are endless if you are willing to do the work. The leadership supports our growth and hires qualified associates internally before looking externally.
7. What kind of advice would you give to women in manufacturing? Do not limit yourself to what you think you are capable of. There are numerous opportunities available to us. We bring a unique perspective to the workforce, we are multi-taskers, and we can do anything we put our minds to. Speak up and demand the respect that you deserve. Respectfully challenge others when you are not being heard and you genuinely believe in something.
8. What makes a successful associate at Printpack? Build great relationships with colleagues across all functions, help, and join in on projects; this builds your knowledge base and gives you credibility when discussing items outside of your functional areas.
9. Words of wisdom to those looking for a new opportunity. Do not limit yourself. Endless opportunities are available; apply yourself, learn, and teach others.
10. What is the best part of working at Printpack? A caring attitude and respect are given to everyone.
