Thriving as a young woman in manufacturing with Paige Raffaele, East Branch Engineering

Paige Raffaele is redefining what it means to be a young woman in the manufacturing industry. Unlike generations before her, Paige hasn't absorbed the narrative that manufacturing was a hard place for women. Instead, she's been part of the new workplace – a space that has been welcoming to young women like her.  

In this episode, Jenny and Ellen chat with Paige about her journey from Abbott Technical High School to Naugatuck Valley Community College and into a full-time role as a Machine Operator and Programmer at East Branch Engineering. Along the way, she’s been supported by an incredible network of male family members, teachers, and colleagues who have seen her potential and helped her grow. 

Paige shares:  

• How her hands-on curiosity led her to manufacturing 
• The impact of male allies in her education and career path 
• How keeping an open mind has helped her thrive 
• The importance of learning many skills across the manufacturing floor 
• The importance of speaking up, making mistakes, and learning from them 

Paige embodies a new generation of manufacturing professionals—curious, adaptable, and ready to take on challenges. Her story is an inspiration for young people considering a career in manufacturing, and for those already in the field looking to support the next wave of talent. 

Where you can find Paige:  
Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/east-branch-engineering/  

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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ 
Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ 
Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/