International Women’s Day: Three Women, Two Generations, One Family

Today we celebrate International Women’s Day by recognizing one unique family working together in manufacturing at Westminster Tool in Plainfield, CT. The Rooke family serves as a wonderful example of women working together in STEM for the next generation.

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women across all fields. In particular, we acknowledge the invaluable contributions of women in STEM and manufacturing industries.

For instance, we look at the Rooke family, two generations of women from the same family that work together here at Westminster Tool. The Rookes are a wonderful reminder of what happens when you build a workplace of positivity, curiosity, and inclusivity.

Empowering the Next Generation

Victoria Chalifaux (Rooke) has been with the Westminster Tool team for seven years, starting as a work-based learning student at Windham Technical High School. She quickly rose the ranks, becoming a team leader and champion for the CNC Machine team on the shop floor. Today she is one of the most cross-trained employees in the company, proficient in over 11 areas from job processing to machine operation and programming. A strong advocate for women in STEM, she’s been recently recognized for her achievements as a member of the Women Breaking the Mold Class of 2023.

Victoria also served as a work referral for her mother, Cherol, at Westminster Tool three years ago. Cherol started as a driver for the company but was quickly hired full-time to begin her manufacturing journey. With no previous manufacturing background, Cherol has been building technical skills from the ground up. Today, she’s cross trained in three technical areas of the shop including manufacturing support, polishing and aerospace production.

Victoria’s younger sister, Ava, was the last of the Rooke women to join the Westminster Tool family. Following in her sister’s footsteps at Windham Technical High School, Ava started as a work-based learning student last year. Ava says her greatest ambition is continuing to grow in as many areas of manufacturing as she can. She hopes one day she can work as a design engineer on projects from both sides: design to production.

Today the three members of the Rooke family are just starting to get to cross train each other. They’re coaching each other to build up foundational manufacturing knowledge including topics such as blueprint reading, precision measurement and continuous improvement. The resources they develop together will be duplicated and used to train others joining the company in the future.

Paving the Way for the Future

At Westminster Tool diversity is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity for innovation and progress. When we embrace diverse perspectives, we unlock a world of possibilities and solutions to complex manufacturing problems. Women bring unique insights and creativity to these fields, driving advancements and pushing boundaries. Westminster Tool has been recognized for its efforts in inclusivity over the last several years, working with local and national groups to support the next generation of women in manufacturing.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to supporting and empowering women in the industry. By fostering inclusive environments and providing equal opportunities, we can ensure that every woman has the chance to thrive.