The following is an op-ed by Sarah Switlik, president of Switlik Survival Products.
As the president of a legacy manufacturing company, I stand on the shoulders of countless generations of family members and women who paved the way for my career journey.
For over a century, Switlik Survival Products has specialized in premium safety and survival suits for marine, aviation, and military use.
But beyond the legacy of our products, I see an urgent need to actively engage our communities, prioritize mentorship, and celebrate the successes of women in manufacturing.
Reflecting on our history, we cannot ignore the powerful narrative of women during the Second World War. The iconic image of Rosie the Riveter, still seen today as a symbol of female empowerment, embodies the spirit of resilience, creativity, and strength that has long been a hallmark of our industry.
During wartime, women filled critical roles in textile manufacturing and sewing, especially in hubs like ours in Trenton, New Jersey. They not only supported the war effort but also laid the groundwork for future generations of women in manufacturing, impacting labor laws and informing union work.
Today, as we navigate a rapidly changing workforce landscape, we must recognize that the manufacturing industry is more than just a collection of assembly lines; it is a dynamic and engaging career path that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and diverse perspectives.
Manufacturing offers an array of opportunities, from technical experts and vocal leaders to creative problem solvers. This diversity is not just beneficial; it is essential. The industry needs voices that reflect our society, and this is where women play a crucial role.
In a time when many are concerned about job security due to advancements in AI and automation, it’s essential to highlight that manufacturing remains a resilient field.
The need for skilled makers and doers will not be diminished by technology. In fact, as we embrace new tools and processes, the human touch—our creativity and ingenuity—continues to be irreplaceable.
The future of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) lies in fields like textile manufacturing, where the artistry of design and the science of material innovation intersect.
We must actively combat the stereotypes that still linger, which suggest that manufacturing is a male-dominated space.
At Switlik, we’re proud to pave the way with multigenerational, multicultural women across our team—something that has remained true for decades. Sixty-six percent of our total workforce is women; specifically, 72% of our production supervisory team and 33% of our core leadership team are women.
While it may not be the ‘norm’ in every vertical of manufacturing, or at every company, it is our responsibility to encourage growth and find new points of entry for women in the field.
Whether that’s pulling up employees from the floor and training from within, or fostering mentorship programs that connect young women with seasoned professionals who can guide them, share their experiences, and open doors to new opportunities.
As leaders, we have a responsibility to engage with our communities. Celebrating the achievements of women in our field is vital—not just during Women’s History Month, but throughout the year.
By highlighting their successes, we inspire the next generation to envision themselves in roles that may have once seemed unattainable.
By investing in women of all ages and all stages of life, from early childhood to trade schools and post-college education, we can cultivate a diverse talent pool that reflects the communities we serve and brings new life and innovation to the workplace.
Together, we can forge a future where the next generation of women in manufacturing not only thrives but leads with confidence and creativity. Let us honor our past by shaping a future that is inclusive, innovative, and resilient.
Sarah Switlik is president of Switlik Survival Products, the Trenton-based global leader in survival solutions for over 100 years. A fourth-generation member of the Switlik family, Sarah brings a deep-rooted understanding of the company’s storied heritage with a visionary, forward-thinking approach to its operations, product lines and future growth.
