Stephanie Westphal

Director of Engineering, Tennant Company

What problem(s) are you working to solve?
I lead an engineering organization creating new solutions for our customers to improve efficiency in the floor cleaning industry. At Tennant, we are leveraging current technology and developing new innovations in the areas of sensing, advanced controls, autonomy, data analytics, connected devices, industrial design, simulation and test along with many other areas. We are creating products and solutions which empower customers to achieve quality cleaning performance, reduce their environmental impact and help create a cleaner, safer, healthier world.

What makes the Minneapolis and Saint Paul region (MSP) a great place to grow your career?
MSP provides tremendous career growth opportunities because of the high concentration and diversity of industry. You will find technology areas and companies specializing in medical devices, retail, industrial applications and aerospace, among others, all located here. This attracts top, diverse talent both from our local and regional universities, as well as globally. MSP provides a great foundation and incredible opportunity for amazing careers.

What do you think surprises people about MSP?
There’s more to MSP than cold winters and snow! I hear this over and over again from people who spend a significant amount of time here. Whether you appreciate the variety of industries; enjoy the arts; love sports, shopping, restaurants or the outdoors – there is something for everyone. All of this combined make for a high quality of life, tremendous choice and flexibility, a great place to raise a family and a rewarding and challenging professional career.

What advice do you have for women engineers starting in their careers?
As women, we often apply unnecessary pressure on ourselves to have our whole life, including our career, mapped out ahead of time. My advice is not to worry about that. Get started on something you are passionate about, continue to seek out rewarding and challenging opportunities and it will lead you to the next step. Careers, like life, are really about enjoying the journey, not just the destination.