October Employee Recognition: Erika Merida

Meet Erika Merida, an invaluable member of the Natech team. Erika’s professional path began as a machine operator at Natech, evolving over the years into a lead operator role, and now shines as a quality assurance champion as an inspector. Learn more about Erika and her journey at Natech!

Erika has been a true pleasure to work alongside during my time spent here at Natech over the past few years. There’s a saying that goes around, ‘Quality is everyone’s responsibility.’ Regardless of the task, Erika makes sure to bring to work every day an attitude that puts the organization’s product quality at the top of her focus. She instills confidence in me and the entire team with each project she dedicates her time to. Over the last few years, watching her dedication to the company’s mission, her continual improvement of technical skills, and her demonstration of our core values has been enlightening.

Joe Valenti, Quality Manager

Working at Natech

Q: What do you do?

I handle in-process inspection, prepare first article inspection reports, Smartscope troubleshooting, MRO activities, and stepping in on floor as lead operator when needed.

Q: How do you feel like you’ve grown or changed at Natech?

I love working at Natech because we always work as a team and help each other. Over time, I’ve become more confident in my capabilities and feel more comfortable when dealing with any challenge that comes my way.

Q: What skills have you learned at Natech?

I’ve learned a lot about the Smartscope and have become efficient at troubleshooting, if necessary. By learning how to do inspections reports and understanding part drawings, I feel like I’ve been able to be a support to my quality team.

Personal Life

Q: What is something that most people might not know about you? 

Many people do not know that I have patience to teach. If someone gives me their trust, I can be very honest with them to help them learn.

Q: How did you start your career in manufacturing?

I started my career in manufacturing by working as a machine operator at Natech. After a few years, I became a lead operator and also started learning in the area of ​​quality to become a quality inspector. To this day, I continue to learn something different related to quality every day.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy spending time with my family, especially with my kids. We love going to the park and the beach.

All About Erika

Q: What motivates you?

The desire to continue learning.

Q: What are your favorite Natech memories?

I have many memories of when I was a machine operator and Mr. Gerd (founder of Natech) came to my machine to give me a piece of apple and sometimes a hug. He always felt like a grandfather.

Also, the events where we spend time together, like the summer picnics and Christmastime parties.

Q: What’s one thing that you can’t live without? 

I can’t live without health and my children.

Q: What are three traits that define you?

1. Assertive
2. Confident
3. Hardworking                                               

Q: How would you describe Natech in three words?

1. Growth
2. Opportunity
3. Quality

Q: Why do you feel proud to work at Natech?

I feel proud to work at Natech because it is a company that provides opportunities to learn and grow.

Related Resources