A shining light

Sharon Floyd is a shining light to all those around her. Her challenging upbringing in the foster care system and homelessness has led her to become an example of inspiration and positive change. With unwavering determination, she has transformed her life into a story of resilience and success.

By day, she channels her boundless energy and compassion into a nonprofit organization, where she tirelessly works to make a difference in the lives of others. And by night, she dedicates herself to her role as manufacturing manager at Siemens Energy.

We spoke to Sharon about her love for giving back, her management style, and what brings her energy. Read more about her experience and how she’s found connections with two meaningful jobs in her life.

Could you tell what does a typical day look like for you?

I very much wear two hats and am very proud of both "jobs". During the daytime, I take care of my non-profit Better Bound Bookstore, by helping employees with the bookstore, that is in Rockhill, South Carolina. All the profits help to pay the employees, who are often at-risk teenagers, at a competitive wage, as they manage an e-Commerce store and work on their personal development. By offering them this job, it helps them to fins their path to success and prepare them for the workforce, much like when preparing apprentices at Siemens Energy.

From there, I transition to my work at Siemens Energy where I manage Welders, Machinists and Hand Skills employees, on the night shift at the manufacturing plant. My shift starts by taking a moment to gather everyone and lay out our tasks for the day, fostering clear communication and shared goals. What truly sets my day apart is my genuine connection with each employee – I prioritize understanding their well-being, both personally and professionally, as well as their skills for the tasks ahead. It's essential to me that every member of my team feels valued and supported, enabling them to bring their pride and dedication to the job. They need to be a 100%, and by sharing my care and understanding, I see them excelling in their own ways.

What makes working as Manufacturing Manager so special?

The best part of working at Siemens Energy is being a part of a company that touches the world in so many ways, through people and through programs. That fits who I am. Being able to interact and collaborate with such a diverse group has allowed me to grow as a person and touch so many individuals outside of Siemens Energy. This is also how my non-profit and my job in manufacturing are linked: I assist my Siemens Energy team at night, ensuring they have the skills, and the tools they need to change the world through the company, while working with at-risk teenagers at Better Bound Bookstore during the day, ensuring they have the skills and tools too!

This hard work and personal growth allowed me to in win a STEP award in 2021, which recognises influential women who are making a difference in the manufacturing industry.

What is the most important piece of advice you can give someone applying for a position at Siemens Energy?

First, never doubt yourself, Siemens Energy has so many opportunities. Jobs go so much further than what you may think. We have endless resources to allow you to grow and learn and step outside the box to reach your fullest potential.

I started working in manufacturing before going and while attending college. A quality manager at one of my previous jobs left the company for Siemens Energy. She knew my skills and abilities, so she introduced me to the company. I am forever grateful; Siemens Energy has changed my life.

What excites you most about being part of #TeamPurple?

Touching the world. Just the thought that if someone touches a light switch, we may have an impact on that. The small part that I play at Siemens Energy is so much bigger and connected to so many other people.

It brings me energy to be allowed to be myself. In business, it’s important that you’re honest and have integrity, and make a difference in the world of energy!