Support, Trust and Training: How My Company Helped Me Find Success as a Plant Manager

Anna Padaetz, Michelin North America, Inc. plant manager based in Covington, Georgia, has had a great deal of varied experience during her 14-year tenure with the company. It’s thanks to its support in her ever-evolving career that she’s seen so much success. 

“In less than 15 years, Michelin has invested time, care and a major amount of trust to support my career evolution as an industrial engineer, training manager, human resource manager, recruiter, human resource director and now a plant manager,” she tells Fairygodboss, adding that she’s done more hours of training with Michelin than she ever did earning her Bachelor’s degree in engineering. “I cannot count the amount of one-on-one time my managers and mentors have spent to provide me with support, feedback and exposure.”

Padaetz says that Michelin expresses their appreciation for talent by listening to employee voices and supporting career journeys like hers.

“My voice is not filtered as an under 40-year-old Latina mother and wife,” she says. “It is heard, appreciated and drives progress — just as all voices are heard, with respect as an equal member of the family.”

And this kind of respect has a domino effect within the organization. Padaetz, too, strives to echo the company culture in listening to all voices, “from janitorial staff to customers,” in the same way, she says. 

“Michelin’s Values of Respect are the guiding force for every decision, and they align so well with my personal set of values that it is easy to just be myself,” she explains. “Respect for people, customers, shareholders, the environment and facts — every single decision I make is a balance of those values and knowing that this company and I will agree on how to treat our people, advocate for progress and never lose sight of our customers, all while envisioning sustainability for all — that gives me fulfillment, confidence and trust.”

Why women like Padaetz love working at Michelin.

It’s no secret why women like Padaetz enjoy working at Michelin. The company fosters an inclusive environment that aims to help women at all levels grow both professionally and personally. To aid in this, Michelin provides plenty of learning and development opportunities, such as their vibrant women’s network and mentorship program, along with several other Business Resource groups. 

Michelin’s compensation and benefits plan offers paid maternity and parental leave, infertility benefits, breast milk transportation and more, to accommodate working mothers and families.

Padaetz’s top advice for career growth.

“You can do it; take the risk,” Padaetz says of the best advice she’s ever received throughout her career. “As a woman, I tend to underestimate my own capabilities or believe that I must be fully qualified for the next role before seeking it. Time after time, I’ve been surprised when someone [at Michelin] recognizes my work ethic, energy and passion and suggests something I never imagined and the advice to ‘go for it’ has opened incredible opportunities.”

After all, Michelin makes it easier for women to “go for it.” 

Looking for opportunities? Michelin is hiring! Check out open jobs via the link below!

--

Fairygodboss is proud to partner with Michelin. Find a job there today!