Women in Manufacturing: Tara Smith —Dynamic Manufacturing

In honor of national manufacturing month, we’re highlighting women in Southwestern PA working in manufacturing.

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Can you give us the elevator pitch on what your company does?

Our company assembles printed circuit boards and cables. We install electronic components using surface mount and through hole technologies.

How did you develop this company or get involved in your role?

I started working as an assembler at our sister company in 2001. I had no prior experience and received on the job training. After working in the through hole assembly for 9 years, I transferred to our Freeport facility, where I currently work. I learned how to program and operate various pieces of equipment and became a team leader. In 2021, I became the Surface Mount Supervisor and in June of 2022 my department expanded to include all printed circuit board assembly operations.

What types of companies do you work with?

We manufacture boards and cable assemblies for a variety of industries. This includes the medical field, oil and gas industry, and aerospace industries.

What do you enjoy about your job?

I enjoy the problem solving that is involved with manufacturing. Every day is a new puzzle and it’s exciting to figure out the most efficient way to meet our targets with the current staff and equipment.

What is a challenge in manufacturing that you would like to tackle?

I would love to change the perception of manufacturing employees. We are hardworking, dedicated people. While not all of us have a college degree, all of us are contributing members of the workforce.

Can you tell us about a lesson you learned in your career?

A big lesson that I have learned is to not turn down an opportunity to learn something new. When you volunteer for new tasks and show initiative you become more valuable to your company. My willingness to cross train in other departments has broadened my knowledge in multiple aspects. It is harder to replace a Swiss army knife than a plain pocketknife.

What is one myth or common misconception people have about manufacturing?

Many people think that manufacturing is boring and monotonous. It is far from boring. Sure, there might be days that you are performing the same tasks all day, but at the end of that day there is tangible proof of a productive day. You can see your accomplishments.

To learn more about Dynamic Manufacturing, visit their website.