Women in Printing -- Female Perspectives
Michelle Waterhouse, Hopkins Printing
Hopkins Printing was founded more than 25 years ago in Columbus, OH, by Jim and Arnie Hopkins. Today, the company is still run by Jim and Arnie, but also by their daughter Michelle Waterhouse. While Arnie remains the company's top salesperson, Michelle was recently appointed chairman of the board. But the work and title have not always been glamorous.
"The earliest work I remember was collating sheets around the kitchen table," Waterhouse recalls. "When my parents opened a store front, my sister and I would help in different ways, including cleaning the restrooms and front lobby."
The decision to pursue a career in printing was an easy one, Waterhouse admits. She says it is really the only industry she has ever known.
"I have found that I like the people side of printing," she reveals. "I like the challenges and rewards in dealing with the employees, customers and vendors. My strength is working with people, and my job has allowed me to develop it even further. My day-to-day job involves our 107 employees. I enjoy helping them, learning from them and succeeding with them."
Hopkins Printing is a good example of a printer that has no gender barriers. Besides Waterhouse's high-profile position as chairman, the company's controller, bindery supervisor and lead sales representative are all women, not to mention that the mailing, shipping and customer service departments all have female employees in lead roles.
"Don't get me wrong, the majority of our employees are male," Waterhouse continues. "I don't think that it will ever change to be a female-dominated industry. The most significant change is that there are no longer 'male' and 'female' jobs—there are opportunities for both."
Sue Ann Werling, Moore Langen
For Sue Ann Werling, president and CEO of Indianapolis-based Moore Langen, an interest in printing began in high school after taking all of the art and printing courses offered. She then worked her way through Indiana State University, earning a bachelor's degree in graphic arts management.
