Annie Rickman, Manufacturing Engineer

Q: What led you to pursue engineering as a career choice?

A: I've always been interested in math and science and using my career to make an impact in people’s lives. I was exposed to biomedical engineering in college through research projects and an internship at Vanderbilt University. I found engineering was the most direct way to help others, so I pursued a career in that field.

Q: Is there a woman who mentored or inspired you throughout your career?

A: In 2015, I applied to The Enrichery program that supports students during their internships. Founder and CEO Sarah Seitz mentored me. She taught me to advocate for myself on projects and positions, practice professionalism in the workplace, and develop my communication and presentation skills. She also exposed me to networking opportunities. Since meeting her, I speak up when I’m interested in various projects that further my career.

Q: If you were asked by another female engineer, who was considering applying for a role at LivaNova, how would you describe your experience at the company?

A: LivaNova is a diverse place to work, and there are many great opportunities within the company. Starting here right after college, I learned a lot of new technical skills, such as process development, statistics, tool design, risk analysis and different engineering software programs. I’ve gained a greater understanding of the FDA and DEKRA submission/approval processes. I’ve enhanced my leadership skills by managing multiple projects, including onboarding and supervising interns and co-ops. LivaNova is small enough that everyone knows, respects and helps one another.

Q: What inspires you to do this work?

Q: What is the best or most helpful benefit that LivaNova offers its employees?

A: LivaNova’s Women’s Network is a beneficial resource that provides women employees with a female mentor to give career advice and set yearly goals and evaluations. The network also holds quarterly meetings to discuss topics such as retaining talent, instilling resilience in the workplace, limiting non-promotable tasks, accountability and promoting women leaders.

Q: What advice would you give to women engineers who are entering the workforce?

A: Learn as many technical skills as possible and advocate for yourself. Don’t be afraid to speak up when there’s a project you want to join or a skill you want to learn. One of the best ways to further your career is to take on new projects and tasks.

Q: Please share with us a little-known fact about you.

A: I got my private pilot's license last year. I was inspired to get it because my dad has one. I’ve always had a passion for aviation and aerospace. When I was young, my family attended air shows every year, and I used to launch model rockets.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Women In Medtech: Annie Rickman

Careers for the head and heart

Annie Rickman is a Manufacturing Engineer II at LivaNova. She is responsible for developing manufacturing technologies and processes that support new neurostimulation products. She’s been with the company since July 2018.