WIFI is for you

Welcome to the WIFI blog. I hope this will become a place for sharing information and inspiration.

Making connections with women in the fastener industry is our stated purpose. You will hear many different voices and ideas as this blog evolves over time.

I believe in investing in a network of women who share a common goal. I also believe there is value in sharing stories, ideas and anything that motivates you, or makes you laugh.

None of us ever thought we'd be in this industry … it's just too small to register on the "what I want to be when I grow up" list.

I actually grew up in the industry while listening to my Dad talk about it. But it was never considered that I or my sister would work in the fastener industry. We were encouraged to follow our passions, and we did. But fate is funny, and now we find ourselves owning the company that our father started in 1972. The very company that he said we wouldn't understand.

Well here I am, and after seven years of co-ownership, I am still awed at the amount of knowledge one must possess when it comes to talking about thread count and torque. I can say I know the difference between a U-nut and a cage nut, but there is always so much more to learn.

The last seven years in my professional life -- the fastener life -- have been enriched by meeting with and learning from many women (and men) who have been generous with their knowledge and time. There has been a lot of catching up to do.

For me, this quote from Angela Ahrendts, Apple computer's new senior vice president of retail, really says it all: "It is always about putting yourself in the other person's position. I know it might sound weird, but empathy is one of the greatest creators of energy. It's counterintuitive, because it's selfless."

Connecting with the women who work in this industry has been an eye-opening and very satisfying experience. While listening more than talking, I have heard stories of courage, determination and spunk. I have bonded through others' selfless energy.

Let's start to share our ideas and knowledge today. If you would like to contribute your voice or story to this blog please contact me at pberry@advancecomponents.com

Pam Berry

WIFI President