Women have always played important roles in manufacturing – a fact acknowledged by Metalforming Magazine in its December 2018 issue with a special section recognizing “Women of Excellence.” Erika Klein, Vice President of Research and Development for Global Shop Solutions, a leading provider of ERP software for manufacturers around the globe, has been selected to receive this recognition.

Women of Excellence celebrates female achievers who make the metalforming industry progressive, dynamic and innovative, and who demonstrate dedication to their company and excellence in the workplace. Klein began her career with Global Shop Solutions straight out of college, serving as a front-line customer service specialist. She was soon promoted to ERP implementation consultant, and since 2002 has led the company’s highly-respected R&D department.

Klein has spearheaded the development of many notable ERP modules, including Shop Floor Data Collection, the Paperless shop floor, Customer Relationship Management, Quality and Job Costing. Most recently, she guided the conversion of tens of millions of lines of code into a modern technology stack and database.

“For the past 25 years, Erika has lived and breathed manufacturing, especially metalforming,” said Dusty Alexander, President & CEO of Global Shop Solutions.

She has had a tremendous impact on the growth of our business by leading the design, development, and commercial release of the entire Global Shop Solutions ERP package, which consists of over 25 modules.

– Dusty Alexander, CEO of Global Shop Solutions

Alexander continues, “she has accomplished this by motivating, coaching, growing, and leading nearly 100 R&D employees across four teams. She also serves as a tireless advocate for the voice of the customer, focusing on their long-term success as the #1 priority.”

“Erika has touched thousands of lives – employees, customers, and in the local community – where she leads and supports many charity and volunteer causes. She truly exemplifies the Global Shop Solutions core values of love, serve, care, and we are proud to have her as a leader at Global Shop Solutions.”