Elisa Ma, the first woman in an engineering leadership role at Corning’s Display facility in Wuhan, China, is known by her colleagues as “Sister Ma” because she takes care of her team members like family.
She’s also known for her keen observation and communication skills, traits that have generated a fresh new energy in her team. With her experience in the automotive industry and expertise in engineering and materials, Elisa continues to achieve her dreams in the field she loves. She currently oversees the forming process at production lines in Wuhan.
“I love encouraging collaboration between all sections of production,” Elisa said. “It’s necessary and makes us work better, with a higher quality result.”
Elisa and her team developed a set of solutions to strengthen stability in their plant’s manufacturing processes. This innovative approach has greatly improved the performance of the production line, and Elisa was recognized as the “Value Star” of Display China for her outstanding performance.
During her three years with Corning, Elisa has transformed on a personal level as well. She married and became a mother. In the process, she has learned to balance her work with this new chapter in her life.
Speaking of this journey, Elisa was very touched by how the transition worked for her.
"I took maternity leave last year, and when I returned to work, I was worried that I would not be able to adapt quickly,” she said. “But soon, I found that all the work in Corning has clear guidance and track, so that I didn’t feel lost when I returned to work.”
In addition, she said, “My colleagues take good care of me. They avoid calling me outside working hours, so I have more time to take care of my family.”
With the strong support of her colleagues and family, Elisa quickly integrated back to work and is ready for new challenges.
“I don’t think gender makes me special in the workplace,” she said. “In improving our ability to solve problems in a creative way, everyone’s efforts will pay off.”
Said Elisa, “I’m fortunate to join Corning and experience these important moments in my life. Here at Corning, I feel supported and don’t have to make a choice between family and career.”
