#HeraeusPeople Story
What I learned, I now share
Marleny Fonseca Quiñones, Line Leader, Heraeus Medevio
"When I walk through the production area today and train new colleagues, I often think back to my very first day. Back then, experienced team members stood beside me and patiently explained every step of the process. They taught me what to look out for, why quality matters so much, and what kind of responsibility we carry.
Suddenly, I was the one explaining
Because we are not producing just any product, like detergent or consumer goods. We are producing components that help physicians perform life-saving procedures in the heart and vascular system. “Tomorrow, someone in our own family might need exactly what we manufacture today.” That thought has stayed with me since my very first day. Of course, things looked very different back then. We were still working at the predecessor’s facility. Production figures were recorded by hand on paper. Shift reports were filed in binders. Today, data flows directly into SAP, processes are standardized, and much of our work has become digital. I have witnessed that transformation firsthand.
One moment stands out. As new production lines were built and more people joined the company, I found myself passing on what others had once taught me. Suddenly, I was the one explaining. The one training new employees. The one who had the answers. How did that happen? I started as an operator. Today, I am responsible for the CFM production line and lead a team of eight employees. Getting there was not always easy. When you are only responsible for your own work, things seem relatively straightforward. It becomes more demanding when an entire production line depends on your decisions. During that time, my supervisor played an important role in my development. He encouraged me to take on more responsibility and helped me believe in myself. Heraeus Medevio also gave me opportunities to continue learning, including training in technical quality assurance. “I received support for my development here. I am still grateful for that today.”
Names that stay with you
One of the things that makes me happiest is that many of the people from those early years are still part of my life. I regularly speak with former colleagues, even though some of them now work in different departments or locations. And within the company, real friendships have grown. Many names come to mind. What connects us goes far beyond our daily work. Together, we watched a small site grow into multiple facilities. We saw construction projects, installed new machines, launched new production lines, and welcomed more and more employees. Experiencing all of that together creates a special bond. When I think about Heraeus Medevio, three words come to mind: growth, security, opportunity. Not only for the company – but for me personally as well. That is why I still enjoy coming to work every morning: because of my role and because of the people who have shared this journey with me."