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This Women’s History Month, we spotlight remarkable women who drive progress, break barriers, and inspire others within our organization. Diana Nikolaev, a Converting Superintendent of the Brampton Corrugated Plant at Atlantic Packaging Products, shares her career journey, the challenges she’s overcome as a woman in manufacturing, and her vision for the future.
A Career Path Built on Determination and Opportunity
Q: Can you tell us about your career path and how you became a Converting Superintendent at Atlantic Packaging Products?
Diana: I started at Atlantic in July 2019, right after graduation from Ryerson University with a degree in Industrial Engineering. My first role was as a Process Engineer in the continuous improvement department. Walking into a manufacturing plant for the first time was a shock, but I quickly got involved with the processes and learned as much as possible.
After three years in that role, my current boss, Michael O’Shea, Operations Manager – Brampton, encouraged me to apply for the Converting Superintendent position when it became available. At the time, I was eight months pregnant and preparing for maternity leave, so I wasn’t initially considering such a significant career shift. But with his support and a flexible approach from Atlantic, I applied, was selected, and the company held the role for me until I was ready to return for six months.
This kind of support was a key moment in my career. It showcased Atlantic’s commitment to inclusivity and flexibility, allowing me to take on challenges without sacrificing my family priorities.
Q: What initially brought you to the packaging industry, specifically corrugated packaging?
Diana: I was drawn to the corrugated packaging industry because it’s a growing field, especially as plastic bags are being phased out. I recognized that the paper and corrugated packaging sector was really blooming. Specifically, I chose Atlantic because they’re a family-owned company that’s 100% sustainable, and that was very appealing to me. I also saw a lot of growth opportunities with Atlantic, which made it an easy decision to pursue a career there.
Q: How does Atlantic’s commitment to sustainability align with your personal values?
Diana: It absolutely aligns with my values. It’s incredibly inspiring to work for a company that prioritizes sustainability. At the end of the day, it feels great to go home knowing that the work I do contributes to making the world a better place for future generations, including my own children.
Q: Do you feel a connection between your work and your personal values?
Diana: Definitely. That connection is what makes the work so fulfilling. It’s amazing to feel like your personal values are reflected in your professional life, and that’s what brought me to Atlantic.
Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry
Q: What has it been like working as a woman in the manufacturing industry?
Diana: I knew going into industrial engineering that it was a male-dominated field, so I was prepared for the challenges that come with that. At first, I did face skepticism—some people saw me as a young girl who didn’t belong on the manufacturing floor. But I was determined to prove myself through professionalism, hard work, and a commitment to learning. Over time, respect came naturally as I demonstrated my knowledge and ability.
The key for me has been to not focus on the barriers but to excel in my work, letting my skills and abilities speak for themselves. That mindset has shaped my career and helped me earn the trust and support I needed to succeed.
Accelerating Action Toward Gender Equality
Q: What actions do you believe companies should take to promote gender equality in the workplace?
Diana: It starts with creating a culture of inclusivity where women feel they have equal opportunities to grow and succeed. That culture needs to come from the top, with leadership showing a commitment to fostering diversity and showcasing that success is achievable for everyone.
Atlantic has been a great example for me. Even while I was preparing for a second maternity leave, the company recognized my potential and offered me the opportunity to take on a leadership role. That kind of trust and support makes a huge difference, and it proofs that companies can invest in women without hesitation.
Reflecting on Achievements and Providing Advice
Q: Reflecting on your career, what are you most proud of?
Diana: I’m incredibly proud of how much I’ve learned and achieved in just five years at Atlantic Packaging Products. Managing a team of over 80 employees and balancing that with having two children at the same time is something I’ll always look back on with pride. It’s proof that women can excel in their careers while also balancing family life.
Q: What advice would you offer to women considering a career in manufacturing?
Diana: Don’t doubt yourself. Women have unique strengths, like multitasking and resilience, which make them incredible leaders and problem solvers. If opportunities come your way, don’t hesitate to take them—even if it feels like the timing isn’t perfect. With the right support system and determination, you can manage both your career and personal life.
“Mothers are the ultimate multitaskers—always busy yet always finding ways to make things work. That same resilience and problem-solving define women in leadership and manufacturing. They always say, if you want something done, ask a mother.”
– Diana Nikolaev, Converting Superintendent, Brampton Corrugated Plant
Looking Ahead to the Future
Q: What is your vision for women in manufacturing over the next 10 years?
Diana: We’ve made significant progress as a society, and women in manufacturing are becoming more common, which is encouraging. But we can’t afford to move backward—we need to keep inspiring the next generation of women to pursue these careers. From an early age, girls should be empowered to believe they can achieve anything. It’s about fostering confidence and offering the right opportunities.
A Final Message for Women’s History Month
Q: Do you have a message to share with our employees and readers in honor of Women’s History Month?
Diana: Atlantic Packaging Group is doing a great job creating an inclusive environment, but we need to keep pushing forward. Inclusivity and opportunity are essential. When we foster an environment where women can grow and develop their skills, we unlock their true potential.
To all the women out there considering a career in manufacturing—don’t hold back. And to leaders and colleagues, remember that supporting and investing in women benefits everyone. Together, we can build a more equitable and inclusive workforce.
