One of the most rewarding aspects of our growing WICA community has been seeing the many ways women are driving real momentum in the metal packaging industry. This month, we are highlighting Kelley Kaezyk, Sr. Marketing Manager at Steelforce Packaging, a WICA member who brings energy, innovative thinking, and strong communication skills to her work and the broader women who can community. We're delighted to feature her in this final segment of our 2025 Member Spotlight series!

With a focus on creating value for customers through advertising, communication strategy, and meaningful content, Kelley's daily agenda includes working closely with global teams to share Steelforce’s story and highlight what makes the organization unique. It is a fast-paced role, allowing her high energy, people-centric skill set truly shine. “I honestly love that I get to do something new every day,” she states. Working with a global team, Kelley is constantly presented with opportunities to deepen her understanding of business, connect with people, and explore the wide-reaching impact of the industry.

Starting in a new industry came with challenges, especially early on. With a background of over 15 years in consumer and retail marketing, Kelley made her leap into metal packaging, accepting the unknowns and approaching this new opportunity with an open mind and an eagerness to learning. Her willingness to learn helped her build confidence and find her stride. “You would be surprised at what people will share if you just ask,” she explains. By asking questions, seeking clarity, and absorbing as much as she could, Kelley soon found that the same marketing principles of her previous careers could also be applied to the metal packaging industry.

When asked for the advice she would give to other women in our community, Kelley's response is grounded and encouraging. She advises to not let the industry’s history be intimidating. She has seen how open people are to new perspectives and how valuable it is when women add their voice to the conversation. Kelley encourages others to trust their ideas, speak up, and bring forward new ways of thinking.

Kelley credits many women in her career with helping her grow, including managers, peers, and friends who offered feedback, support, and motivation to take on new opportunities. Their encouragement played a key role in her career decisions, from pursuing new projects to stepping into a new industry. Her experience is a reminder of the powerful impact that professional mentors and relationships can have on the trajectory of a career, providing guidance, encouragement, and momentum at every stage.

For Kelley, WICA is an extension of her pre-established support system. She describes it as a community where women in canmaking can learn from one another, connect, and help strengthen the presence of women across the industry. “Being part of WICA gives me a space to learn, support, and show the industry that women in canmaking are many and strong,” she says.

Kelley’s story reflects the steady momentum women are creating across the metal packaging field. Growing your expertise, building strong connections, and supporting one another can shape a meaningful and successful career. Through her work and her involvement in WICA, she continues to help elevate the presence and impact of women throughout our industry.