Susan Keup
Susan Keup is a highly experienced quality management professional specializing in ISO standards, operational excellence, and corporate leadership. With a career spanning over a decade, she has held leadership roles across multiple manufacturing organizations, including RB Royal Industries, The Jor-Mac Company, Phoenix Lighting, and Cardinal Components. In her current role as Quality Manager and ISO Lead Auditor at RB Royal Industries, Susan oversees the implementation of comprehensive quality systems, ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 and 14001 standards, and manages a diverse portfolio of auditing, training, and operational initiatives.
Throughout her career, Susan has built a reputation for meticulous project management, strategic problem-solving, and team mentorship. She has extensive experience coordinating with cross-functional teams, leading internal and third-party audits, and developing policies and procedures that enhance product quality and operational efficiency. Her skills extend beyond quality management to include product development, cost savings initiatives, employee development, and corporate strategy.
In addition to her professional expertise, Susan is committed to community engagement and volunteer work. She has produced charitable events, including fashion shows benefiting local cancer support organizations, and actively participates in professional groups such as Wisconsin Manufacturing Connections and continuous improvement initiatives. Her dedication to quality, leadership, and giving back underscores a career defined by excellence, integrity, and a commitment to both people and process.
• Masters Precision/QX
• Dekra
• MRA
• Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design
• Moraine Park Technical College
• Wisconsin Manufacturing Connections
• Femme.forte Productions
What do you attribute your success to?
For 24 years, I have built my career in a male-dominated manufacturing industry by embracing every challenge as an opportunity to learn, grow, and prove what dedication can achieve. Through persistence, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous improvement, I’ve grown from an eager learner to a Quality Manager, a certified ISO Lead Auditor, and a proud Servant Leader.
My journey has shaped me into someone who not only strives for excellence, but who is passionate about lifting others up along the way. I believe in being the voice of encouragement, the steady support, and the biggest cheerleader for those who are working to find their own place and confidence in this industry. If my path shows anything, it’s that growth is possible, leadership can be compassionate, and success is even more meaningful when shared.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Many people grow in their careers without ever receiving “good” career advice, simply by learning to figure things out for themselves, such as what I had to do. Instead of guidance, I relied on observation, curiosity, and hard work. I paid attention to what successful people around me were doing, learned from mistakes quickly, and stayed open to taking on challenges others avoided. I built their own path by asking questions, trying new things, and continually improving my skills.
What it really took to get ahead wasn’t a mentor or a perfectly planned roadmap—it was persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to outwork and outlearn the situation. By showing up, doing the hard things, and proving my value day after day, I created my own opportunities, even when no one was there to point the way.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Enter your career with confidence: you belong here. Grow with your company by staying curious, learning constantly, and welcoming change instead of fearing it. Every new challenge is a chance to prove your strength and expand your skills.
Remember, real success isn't measured by your accomplishments alone—it comes from lifting others up. Celebrate your team, share what you know, and support the people around you. When you grow together, everyone wins.
Believe in yourself, stay adaptable, and lead with generosity. That’s how you build a meaningful career—and a lasting impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My life and work are grounded in a set of values that reflect both strength and heart. As a servant leader, I put people first—choosing to support, uplift, and empower others rather than lead from authority alone. I measure success not just by what I accomplish, but by how I help my team and the people around me grow.
I also know the importance of balance. While I take responsibility seriously, I don’t take myself too seriously. Sharing a laugh—whether with coworkers or close friends—is a reminder that joy is just as important as hard work. Humor connects me to others, keeps perspective grounded, and creates space for trust and relatability.
Adventure and exploration fuel me as well. Traveling broadens my view of the world and reminds me of the beauty in new experiences. Time spent in nature re-centers me, giving me the peace and clarity needed to lead with intention. And time with friends fills my life with connection, warmth, and shared meaning.
Together, these values form the foundation of who I am: a leader who serves, a person who lifts others through kindness and authenticity, and someone who seeks adventure, balance, and genuine connection in every part of life.