Inspire Podcast: Episode 27 | Ashley Poe Thompson – Changing the Face of Manufacturing

This episode of the DH+ INSPIRE podcast marks another addition in our Women Transforming Manufacturing series. In this installment, we had the pleasure of spending time with Ashley Poe Thompson, Operations Manager of Polymer Drive at BASF in Chattanooga, TN. BASF is a global corporation dedicated to creating chemistry that supports a sustainable future.

In our conversation with Ashley, she describes how she got her start in engineering and the career path that led her to BASF. She also discusses the ways in which her role has changed over the years, and what she finds to be most rewarding about her position with the company. Moving past her career in the field, Ashley talks through the changes they have each witnessed in the industry, especially with the growing number of women and young professionals in STEM. To conclude the podcast, our guest delves into her leadership position within the Tennessee chapter of Women in Manufacturing, encouraging listeners to look into the organization.

See below for timestamps and a detailed outline of the episode:

The Roots of a STEM Career

As we begin the podcast, we meet Ashley Poe Thompson, a woman changing the face of manufacturing in Tennessee. Ashley begins by sharing her journey through the field, including what inspired her to pursue a career in STEM in the first place. From there, Ashley discusses her educational background and unique entry into BASF.

New Role, New You?

Within her current role as Operations Manager, Ashley explains why she has found it valuable to learn from the experiences of other operators. Ashley agrees that listening is just as important as paving your own path when undertaking a position of leadership.

Evolutions in Career and Industry

Along with supporting her natural interests in chemistry and engineering, Ashley discusses what she finds most rewarding about her career. Through BASF, Ashley enjoys the opportunity to get involved in the Chattanooga community. And in her role, she feels empowered to share her voice and make an impact in the workplace, especially as the face of the industry continues to change.

The Value of Women in Manufacturing

In the past year, Ashley took on a leadership position with Tennessee’s chapter of Women in Manufacturing, and membership has since boomed. Ashley details how this organization is a valuable networking resource for women, but also for the industry, as it helps women see the various opportunities available to them. To close, Ashley suggests women look into fellow WiM chapters dedicated to connecting and supporting women in the industry.

To learn more about BASF, please visit: https://www.basf.com.

If you'd like to connect with Ashly, she can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleydpoe.