35 under 35
Michelle Callaham Honeyman Kappa Iota - Wright State University
Engineering Manager, Hammelmann Corp.
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Generosity
How did you discover your passion for what you do, and what opportunities have helped shape your career?
I’ve always been creative and had a passion for designing things. In high school, I volunteered at Dayton Children’s Medical Center in the marketing department and really enjoyed it year after year! So, I decided I would go to college for marketing. But during my freshman year, I realized that business and Marketing was not for me.
I was always a strong student in my math classes growing up, always getting As and taking advanced math classes. I decided the summer of my freshman year to take an introductory Engineering 101 course. I immediately fell in love with it, so I decided to change my major to mechanical engineering with a focus in mechanical design.
It became the best of both worlds – a lot of advanced math with having the creativity with design!
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from them?
The best mentor I’ve had in my professional career was named Mike. Sadly, he passed away a few years ago. When I started working at Hammlenann Corp., he was semi-retired, but still came in the office every day for a few hours. I really enjoyed every talk I had with Mike. He really empowered me as a female engineer in this male-dominated field. He taught me the importance of being confident, providing strong customer service and always striving to do more. He balanced praise with criticism, which helped me grow and get established in this field. All our customers, vendors and employees loved Mike, his service, wit and knowledge. I hope that one day I’ll make an impact like he has in our industry!
What words of wisdom or advice do you live by?
“Make Every Day Count” – life is too short to waste a day.
What is the most impactful book you have read, or podcast you have listened to, that relates to you professionally? What made it so impactful?
I thought “Girl, Wash Your Face” was very empowering.
How do you make sure you stay connected with your professional network?
I often email, call or have a TEAMS meeting with our customers and vendors to stay in constant connection with my network.
How have friendships helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
My family has always been my greatest support. I’m fortunate that one of my younger sisters, Jillian, is also a Delta Zeta. She’s always been there to cheer me on – from changing my major to engineering, to getting my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees, and also when I formed the Engineers Without Borders club on Wright State’s campus. She once told me that I helped inspire her to also pursue a career in Mechanical Engineering. What she might not know is that she also helps inspire me too. She’s constantly wanting to learn something new and pushes herself. This also makes me want to strive to do more too. There are also so many other Delta Zeta friends (Emily, Alex and Tiffany) who have also been my cheerleaders throughout college and professional life. They helped give me the courage and strength to get to where I am today.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
I love to travel! On my bucket list is to go to all of the National Parks!