Women are making a difference in the success of PHCP-PVF companies throughout our industry. Supply House Times asked our industry partners to tell us about these difference-makers. The results are our fifth annual look at some of the many women enjoying productive industry careers and their thoughts on their current positions, how they broke into the business and their advice for young women considering a career in the industry.

LAUREN BERENATO

Jomar Group (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
National specifications manager (1 year)

Lauren says: “I love the connections that are made with people in the industry every day.  The industry provides the unique opportunity to work with and learn from engineers, contractors, wholesalers and manufacturers. Speaking with so many people from a variety of backgrounds allows endless opportunity to expand one’s knowledge base and increase their worldview.” 

CONSTANCE DIBACCO

QuickDrainUSA (Denver, Colorado)
Project manager, shower systems (4 years)

Constance says: “I like that I can help influence the design and development of new products through research and experience. It is very satisfying to impact the market with the launch of a solution-driven and innovative product.”

MEGAN JONES

Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems/Apollo Valves (Atlanta, Georgia)
Business development food and beverage, pulp and paper, U.S. (4 years)

Megan says: “What I like most about the PVF and industrial industry is that it has a way of keeping things interesting. One day I am out in a paper mill, the next day I’m out in a chemical plant or a food processing plant. Every day is something different, and it doesn’t leave a lot of room for boredom.”

BONNIE MASON

Viega (Medfield, Massachusetts)
National account manager (15 years)

Bonnie says: “The first words that come to mind when the plumbing industry is mentioned may not be women and innovation, but they should be. This industry continues to evolve daily and we need more women and leaders to pave the way for others.”

TIFFANY MOSCICKI

Hart, Travers & Associates (Lombard, Illinois)
Principal (15 years)

Tiffany says: “There are so many opportunities in this industry for a great and fulfilling career. More and more women are entering our industry and occupying influential positions. It’s important for us to be positive role models for each other and the younger generations.”

SUE NEIL

Robertson Heating Supply (Alliance, Ohio)
HR director (38 years)

Sue says: “Take advantage of training and networking opportunities. Keeping up with the industry and/or product changes can be challenging. You are never too old to learn. Find your niche and learn as much as you can.”

MEAGAN OWEN

Eastern Industrial Supplies (Greenville, South Carolina)
Vice president organizational effectiveness (21 years)

Meagan says: “Be willing to get your hands dirty. You have to learn this industry from the ground up to be most effective, so don’t let the warehouse training scare you. Also, a wise man once told me to put my “alligator” skin on every day that I came to work because people can be hard and get to you if you let them. Don’t take things too personal. If you do, you are not going to get very far.”

MARY PHELPS

Sloan (Houston, Texas)
Strategic account manager; Healthcare leader (4 years)

Mary says: “Sloan is a family-run business. They genuinely care about their employees, which means a lot to me.  I love that the ownership is accessible, interested in my professional growth, my success, how I’m doing personally, my family and well-being. They go out of their way to make everyone feel respected and a valuable part of the team.”

KRISTEN SAARI

Coburn Supply Co. (Beaumont, Texas)
Pricing analyst (4 years)

Kristen says: “I would highly encourage young women to look into our industry when applying for a job or choosing a career path. There are so many opportunities in so many different areas of business because it is an always thriving and evolving industry. In my personal experience at Coburn Supply, this industry has always proven to provide opportunity for growth and advancement while taking a personal interest in my career as a young woman.”

SHANNON WACASTER

IPS Corp. (Collierville, Tennessee)
Master data analyst (10 years)

Shannon says: “My favorite time of the year is the ASA Women in Industry spring conference. This will be my third year attending. It is empowering and motivating to be among that many women, especially with our industry being male-dominant.”