HERStory | Christina Marra
Christina Marra, Executive Vice President, Roma Fence
Building a Career in Manufacturing with Christina Marra
Christina Marra’s journey in manufacturing began long before she held an executive title. It began in the showroom of Roma Fence at age 13, where she spent Saturdays answering phones and learning the fundamentals of customer service. By 15, she was working on the order desk full time through the summers and on Saturdays year-round, building a foundation in sales, operations, and problem solving that would shape her career.
Christina’s early involvement in industry associations provided opportunities to develop leadership skills, build a professional network, and gain insight into the broader manufacturing sector. These experiences helped her develop confidence and prepare for the challenges of a dynamic and evolving industry.
Over the years, Christina has witnessed significant changes in the manufacturing industry. What was once a predominantly male sector with limited leadership opportunities for women has, in her experience, become more diverse, with increased female representation in operations, sales, and management roles. Technology has also transformed processes, requiring continuous learning and adaptability. Christina has embraced these changes while maintaining a focus on hands on leadership, collaboration, and problem solving.
A defining time in her career came in 2014 and 2015, when she led a restructuring at Roma Fence following operational losses in one division. Working closely with business partners, lenders, and her team, Christina helped stabilize the business and guide it through a challenging period. The experience offered invaluable lessons in strategic leadership, operational management, and resilience.
Christina emphasizes that women bring unique strengths to manufacturing, from problem solving and multitasking to leadership and collaboration. She encourages young women to pursue opportunities in the sector, seek mentorship, and engage in professional development. Christina credits industry mentor Cathy Hofstetter for guiding her early career, highlighting the value of support and encouragement in fostering growth.
Through her experience, Christina aims to inspire the next generation of women in manufacturing. Her story demonstrates the opportunities, growth, and impact that a career in this dynamic sector can offer, and the essential role women play in shaping its future.