Description

Join Us!

EmpowerHER Luncheon

& Panel Discussion

March 27th

Are you ready to be

Inspired, Empowered, and Connected

with other trailblazing women in manufacturing? 

Join us for the Idaho Manufacturing Alliance's EmpowerHER Luncheon & Panel Discussion, an exclusive event celebrating the achievements, resilience, and future of women shaping the manufacturing industry. 

This event is designed for women in all manufacturing areas—whether you’re on the shop floor, in leadership, or just getting started. Learn from the experiences of women who’ve broken barriers and carved out their paths in a traditionally male-dominated industry. 

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Run of Show 

• 10:45 am - Check-In & Networking 
• 11:00 am - Lunch Buffet Opens
• 11:45 pm - Program Begins
  • Panel, Barriers to Breakthroughs: "Resources That Made a Difference" 
•   1:00 pm - Networking
•   1:45 pm - Event Concludes

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Key Highlights, Panel Discussion: 

From Barriers to Breakthroughs: "Resources That Made a Difference"

Breaking through the barriers in manufacturing can feel like an uphill battle. In this inspiring panel, four women share the resources that helped them push past challenges and reach new career milestones. Whether it was mentorship, industry events, or training courses, these women will discuss the critical tools they used and the ones that didn’t align with their needs. This session is all about empowering women with insights into the resources that truly foster growth, innovation, and success in the manufacturing industry. 

Moderator: Michele Marshall

Michele Marshall spent 20 years in Silicon Valley as a workforce specialist delivering talent services to organizations across Northern California.  Michele is also passionate about security solutions that help agriculture, food & beverage, and manufacturing teams improve, stay secure, and grow.

Panelists:

Teri Henke, PedSafety, HR General Supervisor

Teri Henke is the HR General Supervisor at PedSafety, with over 30 years of experience in the manufacturing industry. She began her career at Micron in 1995, quickly advancing to Lead and Supervisor roles, where she managed teams of up to 64 in high-volume, cleanroom environments. In 2007, Teri joined Plexus, supervising up to 116 employees in the medical, defense, and aerospace sectors, specializing in low-volume, high-complexity manufacturing. There, she developed expertise in compliance, new product integrations, and continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen principles.

Becky Rodriguez, CEO of Rodriguez Bakery

With over 35 years of experience in the manufacturing industry. She began her career in 1985 as a receptionist at The Hiawatha Corporation in Shelton, Washington, quickly advancing to roles in accounts, payroll, and sales. In 1991, she moved to Nyssa, Oregon, to help run Rodriguez Bakery with her husband, Marco, and his parents. After his father's passing in 1995, Becky and Marco purchased the business, specializing in Mexican pastries.

Becky's leadership proved critical during the 2009 economic downturn when she pivoted the business to include flour tortillas, saving and revitalizing the bakery. Under her guidance, the bakery expanded significantly, moving to a 20,000-square-foot facility in Fruitland, Idaho, in 2019. Today, she leads the company alongside her son, Jarad, managing operations, compliance, and team development.

Becky's hands-on approach and resilience have been key to Rodriguez Bakery’s success. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her grandchildren and outdoor activities. Meet Becky Rodriguez

Jenny Goossens, Director of Client Services for Image National Signs

Jenny has been with Image National Signs for almost 20 years.

Since 2006, I've had the privilege of growing with Image National Signs, taking on roles from accounting to project management. 

My journey here has been fueled by a deep passion for delivering solid customer service and leading a team of incredible program managers. As the Director of Client Services, I believe in the power of connection, vulnerability, and transparency. 

Together, we strive to create meaningful experiences and lasting relationships with our clients. Meet Jenny Goossens

Presenting Speakers

Marci Welshimer,  SHRM-SCP, HR Manager - JST 

I proudly embrace a guiding principle: People, Not Paper. I believe that prioritizing the human experience is essential to our success. In my view, we are an organization filled with people, not just projects, procedures, or paperwork. 

By fostering a culture that values individuals, I empower teams to excel. My mission is to create a workplace where people come first and to champion a future where women feel a true sense of belonging in manufacturing, engineering, and semiconductors. Let’s connect and make an impact!

Ashley Kunz, Micron Technology

Ashley Kunz is the Senior Director of Front-End U.S. Expansion, Environmental Health, and Safety at Micron Technology, overseeing environmental compliance, safety, and process safety management for key facilities in Idaho and New York.

With 20+ years in Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS), she has led major safety initiatives for Fortune 500 projects and federal agencies. A Certified Safety Professional (CSP), she holds degrees in biology/chemistry, industrial hygiene, and an MBA. She is recognized as ASSP’s 2020 Safety Professional of the Year and serves on its board.

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The EmpowerHER Luncheon is open to women in all roles within the manufacturing industry—engineers, technicians, managers, entrepreneurs, and students looking to enter the field. Whether you are seeking inspiration, mentorship, or collaboration opportunities, this event is for you!

Why Attend? 

• Gain insights from industry leaders who have overcome hurdles and achieved success. 
• Build meaningful connections with like-minded professionals in your field. 
• Discover actionable strategies to advance your career and thrive in manufacturing. 
• Be part of a community that celebrates and supports women in manufacturing.

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EmpowerHER Networking Lunch
Connect with fellow attendees over a delicious lunch and enjoy
a fantastic opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, 
and grow your professional network. 
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Refund Policy:
All event registration fees are non-refundable. However, if you are unable to attend, the amount paid will be credited toward a future event of equal or lesser value.

Thank You to our sponsors:

Presenting Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Media Sponsor

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