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Danaher is a leading global life sciences and diagnostics innovator, committed to accelerating the power of science and technology to improve human health.
With multiple high-performing companies that operate within the Danaher family, a career at Danaher opens doors to roles at more than 15 different businesses united by a common cause: pioneering the future of science and technology to solve the world’s most complex challenges.
Here, you get much more than a one-and-done job — you get the opportunity to make a tangible impact.
Meet three inspiring women from our diagnostics, life sciences, and biotechnology platforms who are helping customers solve complex challenges and improve the quality of life around the world.
Shantoi Forbes: Custom Consumable Product Engineer, Cytiva
Shantoi Forbes thrives in her role as a custom consumable product engineer at Cytiva. “The best part of my job is the opportunity to solve real-world problems and make a tangible impact. Whether it’s through innovation, research, or hands-on work, there’s always a sense of purpose and progress, which keeps it exciting,” Shantoi shares.
For those exploring a STEM career, Shantoi advises mastering the fundamentals in math and science while staying curious and open-minded. “Engineering often requires collaboration across different fields. Embrace multidisciplinary learning and develop strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills,” she says.
Shantoi also stresses the importance of persistence, asking questions, and not fearing mistakes, as they’re all essential parts of the learning process. Networking and seeking guidance from mentors or peers can also play a significant role in one’s growth and success in this field.
Emily Whitham: Senior Mechanical Engineer, Beckman Coulter Life Sciences
Emily Whitham serves as a senior mechanical engineer and post-market investigation lead in R&D at Beckman Coulter Life Sciences. She finds immense joy in improving products by creating new designs that directly impact customers. “Our products enable scientists to create breakthroughs in medicine, and I love knowing I play a part in advancing scientific discovery,” Emily remarks.
For those who are interested in pursuing a STEM career, Emily emphasizes the immense challenges and rewards that come with it. “There are vast opportunities that provide an exciting career path,” she notes. She encourages aspiring STEM professionals to embrace the challenges and seize the opportunities that come their way, as the field offers a dynamic and fulfilling career trajectory.
Sahani Wijesinghe: Senior Instruments Manufacturing Engineer/Operations Platform Manager, Cepheid
Sahani Wijesinghe is a senior instruments manufacturing engineer and operations platform manager at Cepheid. In her role, she leads cross-functional teams to improve supplier quality and optimize instrument manufacturing yields, ensuring continuous improvements and operational excellence. She also collaborates with product management, new product engineering, and manufacturing operations to launch new instruments.
“Tackling complex problems is incredibly rewarding, especially when they make a real impact on patient care. There’s never a dull day in manufacturing operations!” Sahani says.
For those exploring a STEM career, she emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who are trailblazers, thinkers, change-makers and — most importantly — those who believe in you. “Empty vessels make the most noise, so finesse the art of listening,” she advises.
Sahani believes that having a supportive and inspiring network can significantly influence one’s career trajectory and personal growth.
Shantoi, Emily, and Sahani are just three of many remarkable Danaher women who aren’t only excelling in their respective fields, but also paving the way for future generations of women in STEM.
At Danaher, their passion, dedication, and innovative spirits are driving advancements in science and technology to improve human health around the world.
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SWE Blog provides up-to-date information and news about the Society and how our members are making a difference every day. You’ll find stories about SWE members, engineering, technology, and other STEM-related topics.
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