Her Story
About Jessica
Jessica Short is a planning analyst and inventory specialist in the steel manufacturing industry, where she coordinates production, inventory, and order fulfillment activities across the manufacturing process. Her responsibilities include monitoring slab inventory, tracking order status, aligning production schedules with customer requirements, and preparing performance reports to support operational decision-making. She works closely with Sales, Production, and Logistics teams to manage priorities, address constraints, improve material flow, and maintain accurate planning and ERP data.
Before transitioning into steel manufacturing, Jessica built experience in logistics and corrections. She served as a Logistics Coordinator with PCC AEROSTRUCTURES and previously worked as a Transportation Coordinator with Walmart. She also spent two and a half years as a corrections officer in a maximum-security prison, an experience that strengthened her resilience, crisis-management abilities, and confidence working in male-dominated environments. Her career journey across corrections, logistics, transportation, and heavy industry reflects her adaptability, determination, and commitment to continuous learning.
Jessica's professional journey is complemented by a strong commitment to education and community advocacy. She earned associate degrees in Early Childhood Education and Teaching and Medical/Clinical Assisting, achieving a 4.0 GPA in both programs. She has volunteered with hospice organizations and supported initiatives focused on children with disabilities, while also advocating for families and fathers' rights. Drawing from her small-town upbringing and her experiences navigating traditionally male-dominated workplaces, Jessica encourages young women to speak up, embrace confidence, and not be afraid to make waves in their careers.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jessica
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my upbringing, resilience, and constant desire to learn. Growing up, I witnessed struggles with addiction, job loss, and financial hardship, which motivated me to create a different path for myself. Growing up in a small town also sparked my curiosity and taught me to keep asking questions, seek knowledge, and never stop growing.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to never be afraid to make waves. Speak up, take risks, and put yourself forward, even when you are not 100% confident. Sometimes you have to act with confidence before you feel it, and that courage can open doors and create opportunities.
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