IWD 2025 - Angie Garcia
Growing up, I felt indifferent because I didn't grow up with my biological mother. Nevertheless, I received the motherly care and love from my aunt. She is strong, elegant, and full of wisdom. When I decided to have my own family, I was lucky enough to have a mother-in-law who is patient, kind, loving, and respects boundaries. They have been the pillars of how I am now as a mother.
Before venturing into the WFH setup, I was in the manufacturing world, working with top companies like Coca-Cola, San Miguel, Johnson & Johnson, and other organizations. Being a woman in manufacturing engineering, I’ve faced challenges in proving my competence, asserting my voice, and navigating a male-dominated space. In an industry where credibility isn’t always given freely, I had to establish myself through consistent, high-quality work and confident communication. At times, my ideas were overlooked, so I learned to speak with clarity and back my points with data. With few female mentors, I sought guidance from those who valued skill over gender and built a network of support. Balancing work and personal life, especially as a mom, required strong time management and firm boundaries. Overcoming bias and stereotypes meant taking on challenging projects and letting results speak for themselves. Through resilience, confidence, and a solid support system, I’ve carved my place in the field.
One of the most empowering pieces of advice I’ve received is: "No one will hand you respect—you have to earn it and own it." Growing up in a tough-love environment, I learned to be resilient and self-sufficient. In a male-dominated field, this advice reminded me to stand firm, trust my abilities, and never wait for validation. It pushed me to speak with confidence, take on challenges head-on, and prove through action that I belong. But over time, I also realized that strength isn’t just about toughness—it’s about balance. Being soft, feminine, and motherly doesn’t take away from my competence; it enhances it. My ability to listen, nurture, and lead with empathy has helped me build strong relationships and create a positive impact in my workplace. True strength lies in knowing when to be firm and when to be gentle, embracing both power and grace.
