MAKER

“Break the mold, exceed the limit, and never give up. Continue to challenge yourself in all aspects of life.”

Tessa Nash

MEET TESSA

  • Hometown

    Born in Brooklyn, NY and
    Raised in Madison, CT

  • Position

    Officer Manager

  • Employer

    Penn Globe
    North Branford, CT

Q&A

What led you to pursue a career in manufacturing?

Honestly, I did not think of a career in manufacturing.  As a 4th and 5th grader, my parents signed me up for Odyssey of the Mind, a program aimed at teaching kids of all ages how to creatively solve problems using science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. I love math so much that after graduating high school, I pursued an accounting degree. Life happened and I worked a couple of retail jobs just to make ends meet. 


In 2015, Marcia LaFemina, president of Penn Globe, offered me a position as a data specialist. I had never held an office position and was nervous to pursue it, but happy that I did. Working in the manufacturing industry has continued to be an exciting learning experience.   

What has your journey been like?

In 2009, I became a mother to an amazing son, who is now 13! It was a difficult time being a single mother without a college degree and trying to find a well-paying job with a company that treated me like a person and not just a paid employee. September 2022 marked my 7-year anniversary at Penn Globe.    

What have you learned about yourself?

I have learned that I am capable of anything and everything I put my mind to.    

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

Break the mold, exceed the limit, and never give up. Continue to challenge yourself in all aspects of life. There will always be negativity, but it’s how you positively overcome those obstacles that makes the difference. I did and so can you!  

What do you like to do in your free time?

I watch documentaries on history, true crime, and mythology. I love hanging outside with my cat and taking food road trips with my son.