Her Story
About Jackie
Jackie Peterson is an award-winning executive advisor, consultant, and leadership coach with more than 30 years of experience in engineering, research and development, manufacturing, operations, and supply chain leadership. Throughout her career, she has led large-scale global transformations and strategic initiatives totaling more than $2 billion in manufacturing, supply chain, quality, R&D, and operations across Fortune 500 and medical device organizations. Her experience spans from working directly with production teams on the manufacturing floor to advising executive leadership and boards, giving her a comprehensive perspective on organizational performance and business impact.
As the founder and CEO of Lift Bridge Leadership, Jackie helps technical managers transition into effective, influential, and impactful executive leaders. Through executive coaching, leadership development, strategic planning, and organizational consulting, she equips leaders to build trust, communicate with clarity, develop strategy, and align people, processes, and technology to achieve measurable results. She has coached hundreds of leaders and brings expertise in operational excellence, supply chain strategy, change management, and executive leadership. Her professional credentials include an ICF PCC credential, CPCC, and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
Jackie holds a Master’s degree in Management of Technology from the University of Minnesota and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin. She is also connected with organizations focused on manufacturing and leadership development, including Women in Manufacturing and the Institute of Coaching. A passionate advocate for developing technical leaders, Jackie continues to share her expertise as a speaker, facilitator, and executive advisor, helping organizations strengthen leadership, execution, culture, and long-term business performance.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jackie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to persistence and grit—staying focused on my goals and continuing to move forward despite challenges or setbacks. I believe in remaining determined, adaptable, and committed to the journey until I achieve what I set out to accomplish.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to “ride the wave.” External circumstances can create unexpected challenges or opportunities, and it’s important to recognize them, adapt, and make the most of them to reach the next level while bringing the organization and others along with you.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is not to let negative voices or self-doubt hold you back from doing what is right or taking on difficult challenges. Trust yourself, stay courageous, and be willing to do the hard things that lead to growth and meaningful impact.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Manufacturing is experiencing a major resurgence in America, creating significant opportunities for investment and growth. There is a growing need for leaders who can bridge business and technical challenges while delivering meaningful business impact, strengthening organizational culture, and bringing innovative products to market.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are integrity, ownership, and loyalty. I strive to act with honesty, take responsibility for my decisions and actions, and remain committed to the people and organizations I serve.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.