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Plant Director - Secondary Education
My name is Silvia and I have been working at Cummins for 17 years. Here we produce engines and other parts of bigger machines such as axles and brakes. We then use these parts for trucks and buses. During my studies in engineering and industrial management, I realized that manufacturing is central to innovation and I decided to work in this field. I began my career in the Supply Chain department, and for the past five years, I have served as the Plant Director of the Cameri site and as a member of the Board of Directors of the company.This role allows me to combine my technical knowledge with my leadership skills.
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My journey to becoming a Plant Manager was driven by a deep passion for technology, efficiency, and leadership. From an early age, I was intrigued by how things work, which naturally steered me towards a career where I could oversee complex systems and streamline processes. Beyond the technical aspects, I have always enjoyed leading teams, solving problems and driving change. My motivation stems from the belief that a well-managed plant involves more than just machines and processes but it’s about people and innovation working together to achieve success.
My responsibilities include Safety Environment, Operations (Production, Manufacturing, and Maintenance), Supply Chain, and Quality Control. Each day presents a range of challenges that require a mix of technical expertise, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. Among these challenges, I'm in charge of maximizing production while minimizing waste and downtime, balancing cost reduction with quality and safety. I also have to motivate and train employees to enhance performance, resolving conflicts among workers, supervisors, and departments, and attracting and retaining skilled talent in a competitive job market.
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Skills
Problem-solving
"In my role, I frequently use problem-solving skills to identify and address issues that arise in the production line, ensuring that any disruptions are quickly managed and resolved to maintain our productivity and meet our targets.”
Curiosity
“My curiosity drives me to continuously explore new technologies and processes that could improve the efficiency and sustainability of our plant operations, keeping us competitive and innovative in the automotive industry.”
Task orientation
“Being task-oriented allows me to focus on the goals we set, ensuring that all team members are aligned and that each part of the process is executed according to our high standards.”
People management
“Effective people management is crucial in my position; I lead a diverse team, motivating and developing employees to ensure they are engaged and productive and fostering a culture where teamwork and respect are paramount.”
Time management
“I apply time management skills daily to prioritize tasks, manage the demands of running a large plant, and ensure that all functions from production to maintenance are carried out efficiently without compromising quality or safety.”
Empathy
“Empathy is key in managing a large workforce; it helps me understand the challenges my team faces and create a supportive work environment that acknowledges their needs and contributions, which in turn enhances employee satisfaction and loyalty.”
Advice to take away
I advice students to stay curious, embrace challenges and not be afraid to think differently. STEM are not just subjects; they are powerful tools that help us understand and improve the world around us.
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Disclaimer
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Also supported by Scientix®, an initiative of European Schoolnet.