This March, highlighted by International Women’s Day on March 8, we’re proud to celebrate Women’s History Month and the incredible women who drive innovation, leadership and progress at Vitro.
Maria Fernanda Pacheco Jaramillo, Gabriell Fernandez, Noreen L. Brady, Carolina Vargas Escamilla, Karina Fuentes, Melanie MacEwan, Suzanne Donohue and Roma Patel are making a lasting impact and inspiring the future of the glass industry.
Maria Fernanda Pacheco Jaramillo
Structural Engineer (Architectural Design Center)
Maria ensures the technical and structural feasibility of glass for large-scale projects, balancing aesthetics and regulatory standards. She finds fulfillment in contributing to iconic, sustainable buildings that shape city skylines. Maria believes women bring fresh perspectives to the industry and encourages them to trust their abilities. Her advice: “The most valuable perspective often challenges the status quo.”
Gabriell Fernandez
Offline Tempering Process Engineer (Meadville Plant)
Gabriell specializes in solar glass fabrication and tempering furnace management, ensuring operations meet rigorous standards. She thrives on solving complex challenges through collaboration and inclusive teamwork. Advocating for women in engineering, her advice is simple: “Always consider yourself a leader—don’t wait for someone else to take the lead.”
Noreen L. Brady
Sales Support Manager (West Coast)
As a key member of Vitro’s customer service team, Noreen leverages her manufacturing background to deliver exceptional service and anticipate customer needs. She values the opportunity to grow in an evolving industry and believes diversity strengthens collaboration. Her advice to women: “Be strong, stay curious, and keep learning—knowledge is power. Step outside your comfort zone.”
Carolina Vargas Escamilla
Production Control Manager (Carlisle & Meadville Plants)
Carolina aligns Vitro’s production plans with customer needs, balancing demand, inventory, logistics and schedules. She values the blend of tradition and innovation in the glass industry and believes women bring unique perspectives that strengthen teams. Her advice: “Be confident, seek mentorship and step out of your comfort zone—that’s where growth happens.”
Karina Fuentes
National Architectural Manager (Southeast Region)
Karina partners with architects, contractors and developers across Florida, Alabama and Georgia to deliver glass solutions that meet building codes and aesthetic goals. She is passionate about empowering women in a male-dominated industry and encourages confidence and individuality. Her advice: “Be confident, stay true to yourself—there’s room for women who are prepared and unapologetically themselves.”
Melanie MacEwan
Senior Account Representative (Eastern Canada)
Melanie oversees commercial and residential glass accounts across Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland. She plays a vital role in connecting customers with tailored glass solutions for their unique projects and values teamwork and collaboration. She’s proud to be part of a community where women are driving progress and opening doors for others. Her advice: “Do not underestimate yourself. Know your strengths and be confident in your knowledge.”
Suzanne Donohue
Commercial Account Manager (Southeast Region)
Suzanne supports customers across Florida, Alabama, Georgia and Puerto Rico, providing sales assistance and expert guidance. She values the teamwork and connections that drive success in the glass industry. Her advice to women: “Stay true to your interests, no matter your gender—your perspective and skills are invaluable.”
Roma Patel
Plant Continuous Improvement Leader (Wichita Falls)
Roma drives operational excellence by solving problems, empowering teams and building sustainable systems. With eight years at Vitro, she combines technical expertise with empathy to create a culture of growth and confidence. Her advice: “Step into opportunities, believe in yourself—you belong here.”
Looking Ahead
At Vitro, we honor these remarkable women—and all women—not just during Women’s History Month, but every single day. Their contributions, leadership and unique perspectives are integral to shaping the future of the glass industry.
Their impact doesn’t stop here—you’ll continue to see their influence in the projects, innovations and collaborations that define Vitro’s success. To read their full spotlights, visit our LinkedIn and Instagram pages.
