SU grad earns national award for 'leadership in manufacturing'

Southern University grad Connie Baker, the Human Resource Director at RoyOMartin-Plywood, was recently recognized by a national business group with a “Women in Manufacturing STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering and Production) Award.”

 The citation from the Manufacturing Institute, Deloitte, University of Phoenix and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers celebrates Baker’s excellence in leadership in manufacturing. Baker is among 121 other women honorees, representing all levels of manufacturing.

 “We are thrilled that Connie Baker’s contributions to RoyOMartin were recognized by this important new initiative,” said Ray Peters, Vice President of Human Resources and Marketing at the Alexandria, La.-based company.

 He said Baker has been “instrumental in developing an internal advancement program for production team members, among other significant accomplishments.” He also cited her community involvement and work with economic-development organizations.”

 The STEP Awards are part of the larger STEP Ahead initiative launched by The Manufacturing Institute, Deloitte, University of Phoenix and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers to examine and promote the role of women in the manufacturing industry through recognition, research, and best practices for attracting, advancing, and retaining strong female talent.

 Baker is a graduate of Natchitoches Central High School and a 1993 mechanical engineering graduate of SU. She is also certified Professional in Human Resources.