What does it mean to find fulfilment in your career, especially in manufacturing?

For Samantha Shelley, it’s about aligning your vocation with your values. In this episode of Manufacturers Make Strides, Sam shares her journey from being the first female apprentice in her company to becoming a respected quality and regulatory consultant in the medical device industry.

From Apprentice to Expert: A Hands-On Start

Samantha’s career began with a traditional four-year mechanical engineering apprenticeship. With no prior experience in metalwork, she quickly learned the ropes, literally forging her own tools and mastering the fundamentals of manufacturing. Her curiosity and determination set her apart, especially as the first woman to complete the program in a male-dominated environment.

“Career fulfilment is about having a vocation that aligns with your values,” Samantha explains. “It’s not just a job, it’s something that reflects who you are.”

Solving Problems with Purpose

One of Samantha’s most memorable early achievements was identifying a root cause of product failure that had stumped her colleagues. Her methodical, inquisitive approach led to a surprising discovery: a foundry worker’s unconventional solution involving uric acid was inadvertently improving product quality. This experience sparked her passion for quality assurance, a field that perfectly matched her love of problem-solving and her commitment to integrity.

Building a Career That Aligns with Values

Samantha’s journey wasn’t linear. She explored roles in sales and project management before returning to manufacturing, where she felt most fulfilled. Eventually, she founded her own consultancy, helping medical device startups build robust quality management systems.

“Integrity is doing the right thing when nobody’s looking,” she says. “That’s what quality assurance is all about.”

Her work now involves guiding startups through complex regulatory landscapes, ensuring their products are safe, effective, and compliant. She’s found her niche, and it’s one that allows her to live her values every day.

Fulfilment Beyond the Factory Floor

Outside of work, Samantha’s life is just as full. From bat rescue and park runs to chairing her parish council, she thrives on being active and engaged. For her, balance doesn’t mean slowing down, it means finding energy in meaningful pursuits.

“Being busy when I’m not working is what gives me balance,” she says. “It’s about living a life that energises you.”

Advice for Those Seeking Fulfilment

Samantha encourages anyone feeling disconnected from their current role to reflect on their values and goals. Her advice? Be honest with yourself, write down your short- and long-term objectives, and don’t be afraid to have open conversations with your manager.

“Your career is a long game,” she says. “It’s okay to take stepping stones, but make sure they’re leading somewhere that matters to you.”

🎧 Want to Hear More?

Dive deeper into Samantha Shelley’s inspiring journey by listening to the full episode of Manufacturers Make Strides, available now on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

💡 Do you have a story to share about finding fulfilment in manufacturing?
We’re always looking for passionate voices from across the industry.
👉 Apply to be a guest on the podcast [here]