She Manufactures: the new initiative strengthening female leadership in Texas’ manufacturing industry

In an industry historically led by men, female leadership is beginning to gain greater visibility and new spaces for collaboration. During the South Central Texas Manufacturing Trade Show & Conference, Mona Helmy, CEO of Helmy Plastics and board member of the San Antonio Manufacturers Association (SAMA), officially presented She Manufactures, a new initiative focused on connecting, strengthening and empowering women within the manufacturing sector.

“We are a company dedicated to thermoforming and pressure forming plastics, with more than 35 years of experience. But beyond our industrial work, today we are promoting something very important: creating a support network for women in manufacturing,” Helmy explained.

A network for women in manufacturing and industrial sectors

She Manufactures was created as an advisory and networking group designed for women working in manufacturing, construction and related industrial sectors.

“The group’s mission is to connect women in traditionally male-dominated industries so they can learn, grow and support one another,” she highlighted.

The initiative began with a first group of 12 participants and is currently working on forming a second group.

A space to share experiences and grow

Helmy explained that the idea emerged from her experience within SAMA’s leadership groups, where for eight years she has been the only woman in her CEO group.

“That group was fundamental to my professional growth, but it also made me realize that there was a need for a space where women could feel more comfortable sharing challenges, experiences and building community,” she said.

The founder emphasized that the goal is not to replace mixed spaces, but to offer an additional platform that enables more open conversations and support among women leaders in the sector.

Monthly meetings and open call

The program includes monthly meetings, where participants will be able to exchange experiences, receive mentorship and strengthen their professional development.

“We want women to have a platform to connect, learn, support each other and grow together within an industry that continues to be predominantly male,” she said.

The call is open to any woman working in manufacturing or a supporting industry who is willing to commit to monthly meetings. Those interested can obtain more information through the San Antonio Manufacturers Association (SAMA) or directly with Helmy Plastics.

Greater inclusion for the future of manufacturing

The creation of She Manufactures reflects a growing trend within the industry: promoting greater diversity and inclusion as part of the evolution of the manufacturing sector, recognizing that female leadership will be key to building a more innovative, competitive and collaborative industry.