MAKER

“A love and respect for the environment was instilled in me from an early age.”

Carleen Moody

Meet Carleen

  • Hometown

    Naugatuck, CT

  • Position

    Process Engineer Chemical Laboratory Supervisor

  • Employer

    Metal Finishing Technologies
    Bristol, CT

Q&A

What led you to pursue a career in manufacturing?

Some of my fondest memories growing up in Connecticut involved enjoying the natural beauty this state has to offer. A love and respect for the environment was instilled in me from an early age. I also grew up in a working-class town whose history was forged by one of the biggest manufacturing companies in the state at the time.

But when that company relocated, it left in its wake economic hardship and a heavily polluted environment. These factors, along with my love for science, influenced my decision to pioneer the major in environmental chemistry at SCSU and choose a career in manufacturing.

Although I am still new to the industry, I strive to learn all I can to better improve practices and processes within chemical-based industries. Through science, technology, and innovation, Connecticut can begin to put a cleaner, more sustainable face on manufacturing and preserve the beauty of our state for future generations to enjoy.

What has your journey been like?

A significant amount of arduous work has led me to where I am today. Receiving my degrees has been as challenging as it has been exciting. My parents were both working-class people who worked many hours to provide. I was raised alongside two older brothers who put education at the forefront of their careers.

I love what I do, and I have met so many interesting people on my journey that helped shape me into the scientist I am today. Part of evolving as a scientist is opening lines of communication between you and the others around you. Sharing thoughts and ideas can help you understand the processes you study and how they affect the public. Communication is a driving force behind innovations in industries.

What have you learned about yourself?

The many struggles I have faced throughout my academic and manufacturing career has shaped me as a scientist. I have always aspired to take these struggles and issues on with an analytical mindset. Taking an analytical approach to problems related to processes and following trends in data is an aspect of my job I like to focus on. Analytical data is a tool that can be used to bring manufacturing into a more efficient and sustainable place in our state.

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

Working in industries isn’t without its challenges, but working toward a goal with a passion for learning can lead to a rewarding career. Manufacturing is always moving and fast-paced, and for the right person this can be exciting.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love spending time with my family, especially my two daughters, play video games, and try new things.