Jess Nowak

I have embraced opportunities to learn, evolve and contribute to meaningful innovation. Every step has offered a chance to work alongside dedicated professionals who share a passion for making a difference. Here is a look into my experience and how we shape industry from the inside.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career with Trelleborg so far? 

The most rewarding part of my time at Trelleborg involves the fascinating people I learn from and train with. When I first started, an engineer trained me on molding. Later, a quality lead trained me on quality assurance for my Relief Worker role. They demonstrated incredible patience, understanding and knowledge. I value my time with them immensely. 

How has your role at Trelleborg changed or developed over time? 

I seized many different opportunities to develop my role. I started as a LIM (Liquid Injection Molding) Molder, which gave me great insight into how we operate the LIM and PIM (Powder Injection Molding) presses. Next, I took on a Relief Worker role that introduced me to quality assurance. I performed online checks and started working with Vertex programs. My third role as a QA Inspector accelerated my tool scope, Vertex and finals training. 

Can you share a specific moment or project at Trelleborg that made you feel proud of your work?

 I feel incredibly proud of my first Kaizen project in VS3. For those that do not know, a Kaizen events are short-term (1–5 days), high-intensity manufacturing workshops designed to rapidly improve specific processes, eliminate waste, and boost efficiency using a team-based approach.  

We implemented the 5S methodology, a system for workplace organization, on LIM 16. I collaborated with my supervisor, my lead, a maintenance team member and an engineer. The camaraderie made me feel wanted, needed and appreciated. I cannot leave out all the wonderful things I learned about Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize and Sustain. 

From your perspective, what makes the culture at Trelleborg special? 

The people who work hard to drive our success make the culture at Trelleborg truly special. For example, my supervisor gave me a thank-you card to recognize my efforts in making our new Relief Operator position successful. When I told her I wanted to pursue a QA Inspector role, she expressed sincere happiness and excitement for me. Her support motivates me to work harder and learn more. 

How has being part of a global team influenced your work and personal growth?

Working with a global team accelerates my personal growth because I know I represent a company that delivers excellence. We maintain the highest standards to improve patient health and quality of life worldwide. I proudly tell my grandchildren that I work here. 

As Trelleborg continues to grow, what opportunities have you discovered for your own development? 

I continually discover new roles for advancement as the company grows. The Relief Worker position helped me transition from production work to online inspections. I engage in cutting-edge learning experiences involving Vertex, tool scope, calipers and gage pins. 

In what ways do you feel your role at Trelleborg allows you to shape the future of industry?

 I help shape the future of our business by sustaining high standards of product excellence. Every inspection ensures we deliver reliable medical solutions that protect the essential. 

Describe a time you felt truly inspired by your colleagues or the work we do here. 

I felt truly inspired during a Kaizen event with my team members. At the latest one, we discussed how to make the quality assurance area and new product development area more efficient. We mapped out color-coordinated areas to prioritize parts by their shipping dates. We also added visual screens to easily view displays on the priority list. The most inspiring part involved mapping out pathways for QA Inspectors to advance into new product development inspector roles. I look forward to my next opportunity to grow here.