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Supplier Quality Director - Secondary Education
My name is Dr. Zeynep Bruce. I studied engineering which means that I know a lot about the design, production, and operation of machines, encompassing everything from simple tools to complex machines. I actually hold a doctorate degree in mechanical engineering which is the highest studies that someone can have in this field. I am currently working as a Supplier Quality Senior Director in a company called Cummins. My role makes me responsible for tasks in many areas around the world such as Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, to which I often have to travel for work. I have been working for Cummins for more than 17 years.
Meet the professional
At Cummins, I am responsible for ensuring that all parts and materials sourced from suppliers in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, meet our company’s quality standards for engine and power system production. I lead a team that works closely with suppliers in these different locations to assess and improve their manufacturing processes, resolve quality issues and ensure consistent, high-quality components are delivered to Cummins factories worldwide. My role is important to upkeep Cummins’ reputation for reliability, safety and performance in its products across industries like automative, construction, and power generation. This role is closely connected to STEM because it involves using engineering knowledge to evaluate products, applying scientific methods to solve problems and using the latest technology to monitor quality and analysing data to make smart decisions.
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Skills
Engineering and technical knowledge
“Strong engineering and technical knowledge is key to understanding products and identifying quality issues. I use this skill to evaluate suppliers’ processes and help solve technical problems.”
Problem-solving
“Problem solving and attention to details help me catch issues early on and guide teams toward effective solutions.”
Data analysis and decision making
“Data analysis is also critical- I regularly review performance reports to spot trends and make informed decisions.”
Attention to detail
“Paying attention to details help me catch issues early and guide teams toward effective solutions.”
Communication and leadership
“I lead a team and work with suppliers in different locations around the world, so I need to clearly explain what Cummins is expecting regarding the products and machine parts that they create, give feedback and build strong relationships.”
Advice to take away
What is your advice to students? My advice to students is to stay curious and explore different fields to find what truly excites you. Don’t be afraid to try out internships or volunteer work to gain practical experience- they are great opportunities to discover how things work in the real world. Work hard to build a strong foundation STEM because these skills are essential in so many industries, and they open doors to a wide range of careers. Also work on developing strong communication and problem-solving skills. Lastly, be persistent and open to learning- careers often take unexpected paths, and every experience can help you grow. You could be surprised by what stimulates your interest!
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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 Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Also supported by Scientix®, an initiative of European Schoolnet.