Nikki Gonzales: A Trailblazer in Industrial Automation
Nikki Gonzales is a seasoned professional in industrial automation and business development, currently driving growth as Director of Business Development at Weintek USA, Inc. Nikki has implemented and supported automation solutions across a wide range of industries, showcasing her versatility and commitment to advancing the field. She has also been involved in the design aspect of engineering, including multi-physics simulation used in virtual prototyping and design optimization of electronics.
In addition to her technical prowess, Nikki has led business development and the implementation of advanced analytics for supply chain management, such as forecasting and inventory optimization for retail suppliers.
With 15+ years of experience in roles like sales engineer, podcast host, and event organizer, she co-founded Automation Ladies, a podcast amplifying diverse voices in automation. Focused on empowering women and underrepresented minorities, Nikki fosters a supportive community for industry connection and knowledge sharing.
The Role of Automation Ladies
Automation Ladies isn’t just another podcast; it’s a platform that amplifies diverse voices and experiences across the automation industry. Nikki and her co-hosts prioritize featuring women and underrepresented minorities, but their goal is to engage with anyone who has an interesting story or unique perspective.
“Automation Ladies isn’t just a podcast about women in automation—it’s a space where we highlight diverse voices and experiences across the industry. While the hosts are women, and we prioritize featuring women and underrepresented minorities, our goal is to talk to anyone with an interesting story or unique perspective. By sharing these conversations, we’re giving visibility to people at all stages of their journeys—not just leaders, but also those who are learning, growing, and navigating their careers.”
A Journey of Diverse Experiences
With over 15 years in industrial automation, Nikki has worn many hats, from sales engineer to podcast host and event organizer. She describes what has made her career fulfilling:
“One of the most rewarding things about my career in automation has been the variety of experiences I’ve had and the people I’ve met along the way. Whether in sales, podcasting, or organizing industry events, I’ve had the chance to learn from so many different perspectives and be part of a community that’s constantly evolving.”
However, her journey hasn’t been without challenges. She explains:
” […] like many others, I’ve faced my share of challenges. Early on, I sometimes felt underestimated, so I worked hard to make sure my contributions were seen and valued. I believe that mindset—seeing challenges as opportunities—has helped open a lot of doors for me over the years. More than anything, I’ve learned that surrounding yourself with the right people makes a huge difference. Whether it’s mentors, colleagues, or industry peers, having a strong network of support and collaboration helps you navigate the ups and downs. That’s one of the reasons I’m so passionate about creating spaces where people can connect, share ideas, and lift each other up.”
Advice for Women in Industrial Automation
Nikki has been described as the ‘Director of Silver Linings’ because of her ability to find opportunities in challenges. When asked what advice she would give to women looking to break into the industry, she shares:
“One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to stay curious and take initiative. Ask questions, get hands-on experience, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Confidence comes from action—speaking up in meetings, taking on new challenges, and showing what you bring to the table. At the same time, know that you don’t have to do it alone. Building relationships and finding mentors is key, but so is knowing how to intelligently ask for help—meaning you’ve done your homework, put in the effort to solve a problem, and are seeking guidance in a way that adds value. People are much more willing to support you when they see that you’re engaged and taking ownership of your growth.”
Finally, Nikki reminds us that success isn’t linear, and the best opportunities often come from unexpected places:
“Remember that there’s no single path to success in this industry. Everyone’s journey looks different, and sometimes the best opportunities come from unexpected places. Stay open to learning, be willing to adapt, and most importantly, find a community that supports and challenges you along the way.”
Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Automation
Nikki’s journey in industrial automation is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of community. Through her work, she continues to break barriers, foster connections, and uplift others in an industry that is constantly evolving. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Nikki’s story serves as an inspiring reminder that success in automation, and any field, is not just about expertise, but also about resilience, curiosity, and the willingness to uplift others.
