To coincide with our annual Women in Industry issue, Supply House Times will spotlight a new PHCP-PVF supply chain female executive each day during the work week in the month of March. If you would like to be included or know of someone who should be included in our 2019 presentation, email Chief Editor Mike Miazga at miazgam@bnpmedia.com.
Martha Orellana
Company: Mr. Steam
Position: Vice President (32 years)
How did you get in the industry?
Working my way through college, I took a job at a freight forwarding company in the World Trade Center in New York. Sussman, the parent company of Mr. Steam, was our customer. Their export manager was leaving and asked me to meet with some very nice people to talk about the possibility of taking his place. I did talk with them, they were more than nice, and very professional, and I knew it was a great company. They offered me the job on the spot. I said yes on the spot. I finished my degree in communications and have been using it at Mr. Steam ever since.
What do you like the most about your job/company you work for?
In all of the roles I have had at Mr. Steam, no two days have ever been alike. I have had the privilege of hiring many talented, energetic and enthusiastic people and mentoring them along the way. Most are still with Mr. Steam today. It is gratifying to know that most of our team has been with us for many years because the integrity, character and values of the people who hired me are still prominent today.
How important do you feel it is to attract young professionals into this industry?
Designs come and go, styles change, but bringing young, talented people who love this industry as much as we do is what will help it thrive and evolve for years to come.
How important do you feel it is to attract women into the industry?
Women bring their personal experience to an industry that needs to engage female consumers. They are often sensitive and responsive to customers and passionate about their work. There is absolutely no role in kitchen and bath that women cannot and should not fill. Pioneering women have already broken through into every job category. All that’s left for us to do is hold the door open for women who wish to join us.
