Valerie Hawks Director of Production & Sustainability, Interact Brands
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-hawks
What do you do?
In my role I work with suppliers, printers, and clients to ensure design integrity and sustainability opportunities are maximized throughout the project lifecycle, from inception to completion. I ensure that the design concept is realized to the highest level in its final printed packaging form (be it on a can, a metalized pouch, a carton, or substrate!).
I also teach Integrated Production Techniques, including print production and package design, as an adjunct professor at Metropolitan State University of Denver.
I am passionate about empowering brands and students to create positive environmental and social impacts through their work and their packaging.
What investments have you made in your professional career development?
I continually seek out learning opportunities. I am a forever student in anything that interests me. I look towards those who I view as successful and I seek them out for conversations and mentoring.
When those people (mentors) are not available to me, I have worked with a professional leadership coach to continue to grow into a more confident leader in my profession.
I have continually advocated for myself professionally to continue to develop in my career.
What investments have you made in your personal development?
My personal development follows the same trajectory as my professional development: I am a constant learner. I am a list maker and goal checker-offer. I find enjoyment in completing tasks and goals I’ve set – whether it’s climbing a mountain, sending a harder rock climbing grade, or teaching my dog a new trick. I like to keep learning.
How can the industry proactively invest in women, and why should this be a priority?
Investing in women is investing in diverse perspectives. In many industries where women are not seen as commonly in roles as men (i.e. printing), the investment in their careers and development not only helps them but helps them personally but helps the industry as a whole.
Women leaders can lead effective teams that emphasize collaboration, communication, and inclusivity.
Get Involved and Get Empowered
Join Girls Who Print in May for TWO in-person events at America’s Print Show
Get your Girls Who Print Gear at our store!
Join our women-only, Girls Who Print LinkedIn Group
Sign up to join our global mentoring program – it’s FREE!
Listen to the Girls Who Print Podcast series playing on Podcasts from The Printerverse.
Subscribe to Podcasts From The Printerverse where you listen to podcasts so you’ll never miss an episode.
Printspiration is streaming 24/7/365 through our growing library of original programming for print and marketing professionals at ProjectPeacock.TV
