That broader context makes what’s happening at Viega noteworthy, not because the company set out to “make a statement,” but because its executive leadership bench reflects something manufacturing often says it values but doesn’t always operationalize: building leadership based on capability, development and long-term performance, and ensuring strong talent isn’t overlooked.
AI is helping women streamline complex or time-consuming tasks, such as preparing commercial quotations, entering sales orders, managing email and calendars, and organizing large volumes of product information. It is also becoming part of daily life, supporting everything from cooking and budgeting to travel planning and quick problem solving.
When Cheryl Merchant talks about her path from rural Michigan to the corner office at the Taco Family of Companies, she does so with the steady confidence of someone who’s spent four decades proving that perseverance and people-first leadership can build anything — from global factories to family-style company cultures.
The event, held on July 18th, introduced girls to career opportunities in the trades.
July 23, 2025
Oatey associates mentor students at the “Let’s Build Construction Careers” Camp for Girls in Canfield, Ohio, which immerses middle and high school girls in the skilled trades.
In this podcast, Michelle Lewnes-Dadas
talks about bridging generational gaps in the workplace, the importance of industry engagement, the evolution of rep agencies, and tips for staying present while you prioritize both family and work.
The ASA Women in Industry Division offers a unique platform for driven women to connect, network, and access educational resources, fostering both personal and professional growth. Its mission goes beyond typical industry events by actively working to attract women to the PHCP-PVF industry.
My first ASA ELEVATE was in 2019 in San Diego. I had just joined the industry in mid-2017 and had only been to a handful of events. I’ll never forget the welcoming environment that surrounded me and the relationships I was able to begin at that very first event.