MAKER

“I always felt like I wasn't using my artistic and creative side to its fullest potential. I desperately needed a way to express that part of me.”

Edymarie Melendez

MEET EDYMARIE

  • Hometown

    Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico and raised in New Haven, CT

  • Position

    Assembly Lead

  • Employer

    Penn Globe
    North Branford, CT

Q&A

What led you to pursue a career in manufacturing?

After many years of working in retail and doing a good job as an inventory coordinator, that position was eliminated and I was offered a management position. But I always felt like I wasn't using my artistic and creative side to its fullest potential. I desperately needed a way to express that part of me. That’s when I became interested in woodworking and DIY projects. One of the projects I completed was a desk for my nephew, and my brother Eduardo liked it so much that he joked that I should get a job where he works. We laughed, but that was the end of it for me.

Months later, my brother Eduardo, who happens to be Penn Globe’s production manager, called and asked if I would be interested in working for them. It's been four years and counting since that life-changing, career-altering phone call! 

What has your journey been like?

So far, my journey has been an emotional roller coaster that has been exciting, nerve racking, intense, and at times challenging. And I’m loving every minute of it. 

What have you learned about yourself?

I've learned so much about myself through this beautiful journey, such as how there are always new skills to learn and develop and how when you believe in yourself, the sky is only the beginning.

We are stronger than we think we are and capable of accomplishing whatever we set our minds to, especially when we love what we do and the people we are blessed to do it with. Simply say yes, even if you are afraid, because sometimes we must take a leap of faith. 

Do you have any advice for people interested in a career in manufacturing?

One piece of advice I can give to anyone is to make sure that whatever you do in life is something you enjoy and challenges you to do better and be better, and if you know you enjoy arts and have not considered a career in manufacturing, you should try it. You might end up finding your dream job. 

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to attend and participate in my local church. In my spare time, hiking, kayaking, bicycling, watching sports and movies, reading, and traveling are some of my favorite activities.