Women and Girls in Science Day: Celebrating Women Who Move Magnera Forward

At Magnera, we believe that innovation is rooted in curiosity, collaboration and the courage to challenge the status quo. Today, in celebration of Women and Girls in Science Day, we're also recognizing the growing number of women in STEM fields worldwide. To honor this day, we are spotlighting several remarkable leaders from across our global teams whose expertise, resilience and creativity continue to strengthen our culture of problem-solving and progress.

These leaders represent different regions, disciplines and stages of their careers, yet they share a common thread: each has played a vital role in shaping the breakthroughs, advancements and continuous improvements that define Magnera.

Tanja Schweizer, Plant Leader - Gernsbach, Germany

Tanja is known for her steady leadership, deep technical knowledge and team-first approach. She continues to set the standard for operational reliability, empowering teams to innovate, collaborate and push boundaries. Tanja was also named the first female manufacturing plant site leader in Germany.

"It's always been in my nature to be part of the STEM field," she said. "It was my passion to pursue something in STEM, not just in study but in something hands-on as well."

Tanja also believes strongly in the importance of representation. "The future of our industry depends on women in STEM. Innovation thrives when every perspective and every idea has a voice. That's how we move forward."

Kathy Vanderheyden, EVP, Global Operations - Charlotte, North Carolina

As a global leader and EVP at Magnera, Kathy brings strategic clarity and a strong commitment to people-focused progress. Her guidance shapes our operations worldwide, inspiring teams to solve problems with confidence, creativity and purpose.

"From the very start of my career as an engineer, I was drawn to the beauty of how things work-the logic, the problem-solving, the creativity hidden inside data, systems, and technology," Kathy said. "But what truly inspired me to pursue and stay in STEM wasn't just the work itself. It was the impact it enabled, the ability to solve real-world problems and make things better, safer, and more efficient."

Kathy also reflects on the progress she has witnessed in the industry. "We've made strides when it comes to the percentage of women in STEM fields. Today, we're seeing more women in these fields succeeding, innovating and moving the industry forward. Let's keep up the momentum and keep reminding women and young girls everywhere that this is a field they are absolutely capable of pursuing."

Hope Reeves, Senior Director of Operations - Nashville, Tennessee

With a strong command of operational excellence, Hope leads with vision and passion. Her commitment to building efficient, effective systems and teams has elevated our performance and strengthened our foundation for sustainable growth.

"Women continue to demonstrate their vital contributions in the industry," Hope said. "Diverse teams are consistently stronger, more innovative and better equipped to solve complex challenges. Women bring unique perspectives and insights that not only elevate our products but also shape the way we approach problem-solving."

She also credits a powerful early role model for inspiring her own path. "My professor at Mississippi State was a great inspiration for me. She was the epitome of what I wanted to be when I grew up. She pursued a career in STEM while balancing a family, and I was in awe of her ability to manage both so well. She was compassionate and nurturing with her students, yet firm and unafraid to hold others to high standards."

Sandra Fang, Senior PD Engineer - Suzhou, China

Sandra's technical leadership and dedication to rigorous product development have been instrumental in driving high-performance solutions. Her ability to analyze complex challenges and transform them into practical innovation is a cornerstone of our engineering progress.

"From a young age, I have always been drawn to STEM. It came naturally to me, and I had a passion to pursue it," Sandra said. "I encourage young women interested in STEM to be confident, be curious and never be afraid to try something new."

Haydee Gutierrez, Product Services Manager - San Luis Potosí, Mexico

Haydee's analytical mindset and customer-driven approach play a key role in ensuring our products & services deliver meaningful value. Her ability to connect technical detail with real-world application strengthens Magnera's impact across industries.

"I became interested in STEM after realizing what I was good at and passionate about. Science is a part of everything around you," Haydee said. "This fascinated me and gave me the drive to want to learn more, leading to my future in STEM."

She also draws inspiration from a historical icon. "Throughout college, Marie Curie was my biggest inspiration for pursuing a STEM field. Her perseverance and high contribution to society made me want to make a difference as well."

Haydee's message for future generations is simple and powerful: "If you're curious, a problem solver, an analytical thinker or simply drawn to STEM, pursue it. Break barriers, speak up, and stay curious. You belong in every room and every conversation."

A Shared Commitment to Breaking Barriers

Each of these women embodies perseverance, curiosity and the drive to break barriers, qualities that not only fuel innovation but also create space for future generations of STEM leaders. Their stories remind us that diverse perspectives strengthen every conversation, every project and every solution we deliver.

We are proud to recognize their accomplishments, celebrate the women across Magnera who drive our progress and continue building a future where women and girls everywhere feel empowered to pursue STEM with confidence.