Women in Manufacturing: Celebrating Trailblazers and Their Impact in Memphis

Women Who Lead: A Celebration of Female Trailblazers in Memphis’ Manufacturing Sector

In the bustling city of Memphis, where the spirit of innovation meets manufacturing might, women are stepping up and making bold strides in high-level roles across various industries. One shining star leading the charge is none other than a remarkable figure in the food manufacturing sector, who is dedicated to ensuring that her company, Monogram Foods, maintains top-notch food quality and safety.

Making a Daily Impact

Dawn Drewry, the Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Monogram Foods, holds a unique perspective on career success. Instead of tallying achievements, she focuses on the cumulative effect of making a lasting impact on both the people she interacts with and the businesses she serves. “It’s not just about a title or a trophy,” she says. “It’s about how you help others grow and thrive in their roles.”

Dawn is passionate about integrating technology into her work and is excited about guiding her team to embrace the transformative power of data and innovative solutions. At Monogram Foods, she takes pride in their commitment to getting food quality and safety “right every time,” ensuring that customers can trust the products they buy.

Reimagining Manufacturing

As the manufacturing landscape evolves, Dawn is at the forefront of a shift that many are calling the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This era introduces Industry 4.0, a model that connects data, machines, and humans in an unprecedented way. Dawn explains that by harnessing technology to predict and prevent potential pitfalls in processes, businesses can enhance productivity and efficiency significantly.

“Companies that successfully adapt to Industry 4.0 are poised to become the leaders of the future,” she says, emphasizing the importance of staying ahead in a rapidly changing environment.

Women Who Lead Initiative

The Memphis Business Journal’s “Women Who Lead” initiative is an excellent platform for honoring women like Dawn who are breaking barriers and setting examples for future generations. Since 2021, this initiative has highlighted over 300 exceptional female leaders across various sectors, showcasing a wide array of local specialties—from orthopedics to electric vehicle batteries, and of course, to food and beverages.

With a clear mission to spotlight the contributions of women in manufacturing, the Journal shines a light on the incredible talent thriving in a field that has often been male-dominated. The initiative focuses on balancing representation and stimulating conversation around women’s achievements in all aspects of industry.

Why Representation Matters

Representation within the manufacturing sector is crucial, say many experts, and initiatives like “Women Who Lead” are mentoring young women and girls to consider careers in these fields. Dawn is proud to be part of this momentous movement and finds joy in mentoring upcoming talent, encouraging them to see the potential in technology and manufacturing.

“When women succeed, they bring along others with them. It’s about building a community and a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion,” she notes. “Every little step counts, and every success story inspires another.” This is especially important in today’s world, where the landscape of work is evolving and adaptability is key.

Join the Movement

If you know an inspiring woman in your industry who deserves recognition, consider nominating her for the “Women Who Lead” initiative. It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate their hard work and dedication, while also encouraging more women to break through to leadership roles in manufacturing and beyond.

As Memphis continues to thrive as a hub of innovation and manufacturing, it’s clear that the future looks bright, especially with brave leaders like Dawn Drewry paving the way. Here’s to all the women making waves in a traditionally tough industry, proving every day that they are capable of leading the charge and making remarkable changes that resonate far beyond their companies.