In her 12 years at Galion LLC (Galion, Ohio), Erica Bonen has found her passion. Beginning as a general laborer at the company, her many accomplishments have led her to her current role as quality engineer. She has also served as a final quality inspector and quality technician — which was her position when she was named Employee of the Year in 2017. She is now a strong candidate to replace the company’s current senior quality engineer upon his retirement.

Bonen develops controlled inspection documents based on internal processes and customer requirements, ensuring clear and accurate inspection criterions that offer the highest quality product to customers. She also generates first article acceptance test plans in accordance with customer specifications for new and existing products.

Described as adaptable and organized, Bonen’s ability to help others develop and learn by sharing her knowledge is what excites her the most. “Galion LLC has always encouraged me in my quest to grow and develop professionally, so I would like to help others do the same,” she says.

Bonen hopes to one day mentor individuals who are interested in the automotive, commercial and defense industries. But, for now, she is focused on learning as much as possible for her career in quality systems, as she is working toward a degree in that at Bowling Green State University.

As if working full time and earning a degree is not enough on her plate, Bonen is also a mother of two children. When she has the opportunity, she enjoys making wine bottle wind chimes, decorative glass bottles and homemade ointments. She also enjoys camping and fishing.

To learn about all of the 2020 Emerging Leaders, read Meet Production Machining’s 2020 Emerging Leaders.

To watch videos about our 2020 Emerging Leaders, click on the links below:

• Advice for the Next Generation of Manufacturing Talent
• Manufacturing Attracts Young Leaders in Different Ways
• Leaders Who are Goal Oriented
• Daily Challenges Emerging Leaders Face