Each month, the PMA Member Spotlight features an outstanding member sharing his/her insights into the latest industry trends and technologies.

PMA is pleased to highlight Colleen Parrish, human resource manager for Highlands Diversified Services, London, KY. The company specializes in metal stamping, secondary operations, powder painting and assembly serving the automotive, appliance, telecommunication, aerospace and office-equipment market segments.

Hear Colleen's thoughts about technology challenges facing metalformers, what’s on her wish list for her plant next year, the best conference she has attended in the last year, and more!

Q: Which job classifications are the most challenging to find skilled workers?
A: Tool and die makers.

Q: What is the biggest technology challenge metalformers face today?
A: The control of labor costs through utilization of automation, both in secondary operations and stamping operations, by performing in-die operations.

Q: What is on your wish list for your facility next year (i.e., a new piece of equipment)?
A: With our growth, acquiring an additional powder-coat painting system. 

Q: What is the best conference or seminar you or your employees attended in the past year and why?
A: I think that all of the PMA seminars, workshops and conferences are the best.  It allows for people of our industry to benchmark each other.  PMA also has provided an avenue for a lifetime of friendships.

Q: What conference topic (related to the metalforming/manufacturing industry) would you be most interested in attending?
A: Safety, Training and Human Resource

Q: Minivan, SUV or sedan?
A: I own a minivan and LOVE IT! 

Q: What are the top three songs on your play list right now?
A: Etta James - I’d rather go blind, Ellie King – Ex’s & Oh’s, and a blast from the past Earth, Wind and Fire - Let’s Groove Tonight.