The Packaging & Processing Women's Leadership Network (PPWLN)—sponsored by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies—will host an exclusive breakfast featuring Tana L. Utley, vice president of Caterpillar, at PACK EXPO Las Vegas on Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 7:30 a.m. This event is part of PPWLN's ongoing efforts to address the gender gap in the manufacturing workforce by attracting, developing, retaining and advancing women in packaging and processing. Utley will discuss this critical industry issue during her keynote presentation, "Dancing on the Glass Ceiling," as well as share strategies for making the most of the abundant opportunities that exist for women in the manufacturing industry—and how to give back.
"Tana Utley's experiences at Caterpillar and her wealth of knowledge will resonate with women in packaging and processing," said Tracy Stout, vice president of marketing and communications for PMMI. "Her unique experience in manufacturing will inform and inspire all who attend this special event."
Since joining Caterpillar in 1986, Utley has progressed from a working-level engineer to a vice president and head of Caterpillar's Large Power Systems Division—thanks in part to a clear vision of her own value proposition and a definition of success that includes personal balance. Her technical career has been focused primarily on solving the challenges of reducing diesel engine emissions in accordance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and equivalent global regulations. She has played a number of key engineering and leadership roles in the development of the near-zero-emissions engines Caterpillar sells today. She has also held general management positions in Caterpillar's components and engines businesses.
"A key factor in women's advancement is creating effective networks and learning how to leverage them," Stout said. "This event is an exciting opportunity for women in the industry to hear from a driven, accomplished leader as well as connect with their peers."
To register for the complimentary event at PACK EXPO Las Vegas, sponsored by Duravant, ID Technology, Morrison Container Handling Solutions, Septimatech Group and SMC, visit pmmi.org/womens-leadership-network.
PPWLN aims to expand the presence and influence of women in packaging and processing by recruiting, retaining and advancing women's careers in the industry. To network and learn about upcoming events, join the Packaging & Processing Women's Leadership Network group on LinkedIn.
