March is National Women’s History Month—a time to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary contributions women have made to our society. In the Jacksonville region, women are not only shaping industries, but they are also leading them. From factory floors to financial firms, research labs to logistics hubs, their impact is shown through innovation, workforce growth and community advancement.
Let’s explore how women are driving progress across the targeted industries of Northeast Florida, and see some individual stories of leadership and influence within the region:
Advanced Manufacturing
The Advanced Manufacturing Industry is a cornerstone of Northeast Florida’s economy, and women are playing an increasingly vital role in the industry’s growth––serving as plant managers, process engineers, quality control specialists, operations leaders and more! Companies like Johnson & Johnson Vision and BAE Systems employ women in technical, research and executive roles—driving innovation in medical devices, specialty fibers and sustainable materials.
As the Advanced Manufacturing Industry becomes more technology-driven, women are breaking stereotypes and redefining what leadership looks like on the production floor. Women in this sector are helping integrate automation, robotics and new manufacturing practices while also mentoring the next generation of skilled workers entering the trades.
Brie De Santelices, Johnson & Johnson Vision
Brie is an Engineering Manager at Johnson & Johnson Vision, a global leader in eye care innovation with headquarters in Jacksonville. Jacksonville site operations include manufacturing, distribution, finance, marketing and research and development. Products made here are used across the world in more than 100 countries. “Early in my career, I had a lot of amazing managers and mentors, and I saw the impact my relationship with them had both on me and my career. I knew that was something I wanted to do—so not only to continue to grow myself, but I wanted to help people achieve their dreams,” she says.
Financial Services
Jacksonville has long been a Financial Services hub, and women are at the forefront of banking, fintech, wealth management and risk analysis. Institutions such as Deutsche Bank, VyStar Credit Union, Bank of America and Paysafe have benefited from women leaders who guide strategic investments, regulatory compliance and digital transformation.
Beyond the C-suite, women financial professionals are mentoring young talent, leading employee resource groups and increasing access to the financial literacy of individuals across the region. Their influence extends well beyond balance sheets—they are strengthening economic resilience for families and businesses alike.
Christina Massara, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Christina is a financial advisor with Pinnacle Financial Partners in Jacksonville. Pinnacle provides a full range of banking, investment, trust, mortgage and insurance products and services designed for businesses and their owners and individuals interested in a comprehensive relationship with their financial institution. “It’s very rewarding when I see clients accomplish their goals,” she states. “Your guidance can make a big impact in their lives.”
Life Sciences
The Life Sciences Industry in Northeast Florida continues to expand, fueled by medical research, biotechnology and healthcare innovation. Women researchers, clinicians and administrators are central to this growth. At institutions like Mayo Clinic, Baptist Health, Brooks Rehabilitation and University of Florida Health, women are leading clinical trials, advancing precision medicine and overseeing major research initiatives. Their work directly improves patient outcomes and advances global scientific knowledge.
Women in the Life Sciences Industry also contribute to workforce development by mentoring students and collaborating with regional partners to strengthen STEM pipelines for young women.
Lorraine De Chavez, Mosai (formerly Forcura)
Lorraine works as an Associate Business Analyst at Mosai (formerly Forcura). Headquartered in Jacksonville, Mosai is a healthcare technology company that creates workflow management solutions. Since the company’s founding in 2012, Mosai has partnered with more than 900 healthcare providers across 9,000 locations. “We need more women in tech to create diversity within the sector and bridge the gap between men and women in the office,” she says. “So, if you have the skills and the passion to work in technology, I say go for it!”
Technology Services
The Technology Services Industry is transforming nearly every sector in Jacksonville—from fintech to logistics to healthcare IT—and women are instrumental in that transformation. At companies like FIS, ICE Mortgage Technology Division and Dun & Bradstreet women serve as software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists and executive leaders. They are building digital infrastructure, protecting sensitive information and creating the platforms that power global commerce.
Across startups and established firms alike, women in the Technology Industry are championing inclusive innovation and helping close the gender gap in STEM. Their presence signals a future in which Northeast Florida remains competitive in the digital economy.
Tierra Watson, Bank Of America
Tierra Watson, a Production Operations Specialist at Bank of America, found her passion for financial technology (fintech) and her career path through the Year Up program at Florida State College of Jacksonville (FSCJ). In her role, Tierra works closely with users and other tech teams to identify, troubleshoot and resolve technology service issues. “I put in a lot of hard work, and my manager recognized my drive to be hired,” Tierra says. “By networking and staying motivated during the internship, I was able to demonstrate why they should have me on their team.”
Transportation & Logistics
As one of the nation’s key logistics hubs, Jacksonville’s Transportation & Logistics Industry is both historic and forward-looking. Women are rising through leadership ranks in maritime, supply chain management, aviation and railway operations. Organizations such as JAXPORT, Amazon, CSX and Crowley rely on women leaders to manage complex global supply chains, sustainability initiatives and infrastructure investments.
Women in this sector are not only keeping goods moving—they are shaping policies, strengthening international trade relationships and modernizing systems to meet future demand.
Maleeya McWhite, Crowley
In her role as a Pricing Analyst at Crowley, Maleeya supports sales team members with customized price quotes and develops customized pricing solutions to meet unique client needs. Her position requires data analysis, negotiation and contract management skills. Communication, teamwork, problem solving and adaptability are equally important. “I am one of the fortunate ones who was able to advance my career at an early age. Many are not as fortunate. I want to mentor others and help them achieve their full potential,” Maleeya says.
Honoring the Past, Investing in the Future
National Women’s History Month reminds us that progress is built on the courage and contributions of women who stepped forward—often in the face of significant barriers. In Jacksonville and throughout Northeast Florida, today’s women leaders continue that legacy by driving innovation, strengthening the workforce and investing in their communities.
As we celebrate this month, we also look ahead. By continuing to elevate women’s voices, expand leadership pathways and share stories of impact, our region ensures that the next generation of innovators, executives, researchers and entrepreneurs will find opportunity waiting for them.
The story of Northeast Florida’s growth is, in many ways, the story of the women who power it—and that is something worth celebrating not just in March, but all year long. Read more impactful stories of the women of Jacksonville on Earn Up.
