Faces of Manufacturing 2025: No Two Days Are the Same
Editor's Note: Throughout October in celebration of Manufacturing Day/Month, IndustryWeek's Faces of Manufacturing will share the stories of people with a passion for manufacturing.
Haley Gordon
City/State of Residence: Columbus, Ohio
Job Title: Process Improvement Manager – Architectural Specialties Operations
Company: Armstrong World Industries
Years with Company: 10 years
Industry of Your Company: Building Products Industry
Training/Education: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Saint Mary’s College and Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from University of Notre Dame
What made you decide to pursue a career in manufacturing? I’ve always enjoyed science, especially when it can be used to solve real problems and improve how things are made. That interest is what led me to process engineering in a manufacturing facility. I started out working with paint mixing and application, along with supporting new product development on the shop floor.
What does your job entail? My current role is a supporting function for multiple manufacturing facilities across North America. I work closely with plant teams and leadership to help our business and manufacturing operations run more efficiently and effectively. I lead projects that focus on improving safety, quality, service, and cost by identifying where things can be done better and working with teams to implement those changes. I’m also involved in our SAP rollout, making sure the system supports our day-to-day operations in the best way possible. At the end of the day, my job is about driving positive change and helping the organization grow.
More Manufacturing Day/Month Coverage
What is the most interesting part of your job? Your proudest moment? What I find most interesting about my job is that no two days are the same and each day brings new challenges that keep things fun and engaging! One of my proudest accomplishments has been leading the operations side of the installation and commissioning of our company’s first powder coating line and sublimation oven. I became a technical expert in those processes and had the opportunity to hire and train the team that now runs them. It was very fulfilling to not only learn the science behind the technology, but also to help others grow into experts themselves.
What do you love about manufacturing? I’ve always loved seeing how everything is made. It’s very rewarding to see all the pieces come together and knowing you played a part in bringing that to life!
What advice would you give to kids considering a job in manufacturing? There are so many opportunities in manufacturing! Be open-minded and ready to learn as much as you can.
What advice would you give to manufacturers to help increase kids’ interest in manufacturing as a career choice? I think that showing and explaining what all manufacturing includes and can do would be valuable to them. Any opportunity to do hands-on demonstrations or safe plant tours is another great way to get kids excited about manufacturing.