Women are making their mark in the global manufacturing industry, and the momentum is growing. At W&S Plastics, we’re proud to be part of this progress – with women driving innovation, leadership and change every day.
Our latest article highlights the contribution of five remarkable women on our team whose stories show that there’s no one path into manufacturing – and no limit to what’s possible once you get there.
Loan – Leading Hand
Loan didn’t set out to be a trailblazer. She simply followed her interests. As a child, she loved working with her hands and figuring out how to solve problems. That natural curiosity led her into manufacturing – and eventually into her current role as Leading Hand at W&S Plastics Australia.
Loan received valuable in-house training at W&S Plastics.
“I really enjoy the collaborative and innovative culture here,” she says. “There’s a strong focus on problem-solving, and we support each other to find solutions.”
She credits a mentor early in her career with a piece of advice that’s stayed with her: Always be open to learning, no matter where you are in your career. Loan’s message to young women considering manufacturing is clear: “If you’re passionate about something, follow it – even if it leads you into an unexpected industry.”
Elentia – Planning Supervisor (also Internal Auditor, Stock Controller, Scheduler)
Elentia’s path into manufacturing wasn’t planned. After completing high school and three years of a nursing degree, her first job offer was in IT – and she took it. That one decision, she says, changed everything.
“Starting out in a supervisory role in the computer industry gave me the confidence to try new things,” reflects Elentia. As a migrant to Australia, those early experiences helped her settle into her new country and see that she didn’t need to follow a traditional career path.
Now a Planning Supervisor at W&S Plastics Australia – and responsible for auditing, scheduling and stock control – Elentia appreciates the workplace flexibility, the friendships she’s built, and the support of her manager. “Bill Richards has believed in me from day one,” she says. “He’s helped me grow, take on more responsibilities, and develop skills I never imagined having.”
Her advice to others? “Stay open. Grab the opportunity in front of you. You never know where it might lead.”
Lim Yok Hwa – Quality Manager
Lim Yok Hwa, now W&S Plastics’ Quality Manager in Malaysia, has built her career steadily over many years. She describes herself as a lifelong learner, with a love of self-education and on-the-job growth.
“I’ve always been drawn to data, statistics and analysis,” she says. “Working in quality control lets me explore all of that, while also seeing the real impact of our work.”
Lim has worked across every aspect of the quality process – from ISO standards to soft skills; Excel spreadsheets to system development. What keeps her motivated is the sense of progress: “Management here really supports innovation and improvement. We’re always working to enhance our systems, and I enjoy seeing the results of that change.”
To young women starting out, Lim offers this wisdom: “Manufacturing is a dynamic environment. Change happens fast. Be ready to adapt and stay connected to the latest in technology. Understand how your work connects to the whole – that’s when you start to see just how much impact you can have.”
Azrina – Process Engineer, VR Assembly
Azrina knew early on that she wanted a hands-on, problem-solving career. Inspired by her father, who worked his way from humble beginnings to become an Engineering Manager, she pursued a degree in Manufacturing Engineering and built her skills through internships with global tech firms.
“My father always told me: keep learning, be adaptable, and never stop improving,” Azrina says. It’s advice she’s taken to heart.
At W&S Plastics Malaysia, Azrina has found the kind of workplace she always hoped for – a team committed to collaboration, innovation and growth. “The work is challenging, but that’s what makes it exciting. Every challenge is an opportunity to improve something – whether it’s a process, a product or your own skills.”
She’s especially passionate about encouraging more women to explore manufacturing: “Our perspectives matter. Our creativity and problem-solving bring value. Manufacturing is evolving, and there’s room for everyone. If you’re curious, confident and ready to learn – go for it.”
Clara – Printer
Clara brings precision, creativity, and adaptability to her role as a Printer at W&S Plastics Australia. Trained specifically in printing, she’s found her niche in the varied and fast-paced world of manufacturing.
“What I enjoy most is the variety of printing jobs and the range of people I get to work with,” she says. “Every day is a little different, and that keeps the work interesting.”
Like many women in the field, Clara has found that having a supportive supervisor has made a big difference to her confidence and career progression. “It really helps when someone believes in you and gives you the space to grow.”
Her advice to young women considering manufacturing? “Don’t be scared to learn something different. Manufacturing is interesting – and there’s so much variety. You never know what you might be great at until you try.”
Together, these stories paint a powerful picture of what it means to be a woman in manufacturing today: resilient resourceful, and ready to lead. At W&S Plastics, we’re proud of the women who make our business stronger – and we’re committed to creating more opportunities for women at every stage of the career journey.
