This Mother’s Day, We’re Highlighting a Special Mother-Daughter Story
Ofelia immigrated to the United States from Michoacán, Mexico, at around 15 years old. Her family lived in San Diego for three years before settling in Burlington, Washington, where she finished high school. Her early work life was hands-on jobs, from nurseries to canning plants to crafting windchimes. A friend who worked at Janicki told her about a job opening and urged her to apply.
In November 2003, Ofelia joined the company at the Highway 20 facilities, sanding and finishing tooling. When the Hamilton Building 5 manufacturing plant opened, she transitioned to a mold fabrication role and steadily advanced her skills. Today, she’s a seasoned production lead who oversees a team responsible for laying up and processing composite aerospace parts, a role she has proudly held for two decades.
“My favorite part about layup is that you have to be so conscious about what you do,” says Ofelia. “And then get to see the finished product out on the floor that you made, and that is just so good.”
A Familiar Future
For several years, Ofelia encouraged her daughter, Melody, to apply for a job with Janicki.
“When I was a kid, I would always say I was going to go work at Janicki with my mom. And then I got older and went on my own way, but my mom convinced me to give it a go,” Melody says.
In January, Melody joined the team as a production technician after working in hospitality and customer service jobs, where growth opportunities were limited. She’s been learning the ropes of the Building 9 CCA, laying up aerospace composite parts. She’s especially drawn to the more intricate pieces and is eager to explore other areas of the company in time.
“I always tell my daughter, just don’t get stuck,” says Ofelia. “This company has so many things to learn and grow with. Keep climbing.”
While Ofelia and Melody carpool to work, they’re stationed in different cells. Still, they remain connected through their shared passion for craftsmanship and camaraderie. Both say their favorite part about working at Janicki is the people. Melody works alongside many of her mother’s first coworkers in Building 9. Ofelia is known for spreading cheer with gifts like plants and chocolates on holidays, including Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, a tradition Melody has started helping with.
A Celebrated Bond
At home, Ofelia cares for her 88-year-old mother, also named Ofelia. Together, they attend church every Sunday and enjoy peaceful walks. Melody spends her free time at the gym, playing video games and exploring art projects like painting and crafting.
For this mother-daughter duo, family time is central, whether it’s cooking together or simply sharing the small joys of life. Melody and Ofelia’s specialty dish is chile rellenos, where Melody expertly fluffs the egg whites and folds in the yolks. This Mother’s Day, they plan to celebrate together as mother, grandmother, and daughter at a family gathering, a fitting tribute to the multi-generational bond.
Interested in joining our production team? Check out our Job Openings.