Materials expert, master collaborator, innovation hall of famer
Litsa Rubino worked for the same company in the automotive industry for 31 years, but was always rising to new opportunities. Over the course of her career, she has taken on several different roles and has been a champion of American manufacturing at each step. Litsa has been recognized with 11 patent awards and inducted into the Delphi Innovation Hall of Fame.
Litsa is a Program Manager for America Makes, where she is responsible for managing the institute’s technical projects and leading internal strategy development and formation of new projects. America Makes, which focuses on integrating additive manufacturing (3D printing) into casting and forging technology for Department of Defense contractors, is managed by the National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining (NCDMM).
Litsa joined America Makes in 2021 as a Senior Project Engineer and was promoted to Program Manager in 2024. She brings vast experience in developing processes to build new products and has established strong collaborations with universities, suppliers, and other research entities.
Throughout her career, Litsa has supervised and mentored engineering peers, entry-level engineers, and student interns. For being a leader in advanced manufacturing, Litsa Rubino is a Modern Maker.
Q&A with Litsa
How did you find your way to working in advanced manufacturing?
My journey began with a love for math and chemistry, a father who was an engineer at General Motors, and a mother who did not want me to pursue a career in medicine. All of these factors led me to pursuing a degree in chemical engineering.
My first job was with a Tier 1 automotive parts supplier that focused on the production of wire and cable harnesses. My role was to develop the rubber compounds used as the insulation of the cable and troubleshoot any quality issues that arose during the wire and cable production process. The exposure to the variety of manufacturing processes early in my career fueled a desire to learn more, leading to a Master’s Degree in polymer engineering.
As my career has progressed, I have been fortunate to be involved in both the development of advanced manufacturing practices and roles that study emerging technologies, such as additive manufacturing. That combination allows me to evaluate potential impacts on future manufacturing operations.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Managing unforeseen problems such as schedule delays, unexpected test results, or uncooperative team members. Handling these challenges involves not only finding solutions but also ensuring that projects stay on track.
What is the best part of your job?
The opportunity to work on projects that impact the warfighter, particularly those involving advanced technologies. My role allows me to continuously learn, interface with a broad variety of people, and observe many different manufacturing processes. It’s rewarding to mentor and encourage young people to enter the engineering field, especially in manufacturing. The combination of innovation, personal growth, and the chance to positively impact others makes my job deeply fulfilling.
What would people be surprised to learn about manufacturing or your role in it?
A diverse range of skills is required in my role, from project management and technical expertise to effective communication and networking. Troubleshooting becomes second nature as you are always looking for ways to solve that one problem or improve that process.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry?
Stay curious and eager to learn. Embrace challenges and view them as opportunities to grow and innovate. Don't be afraid to ask questions or share your ideas, as collaboration often leads to the best solutions. Build a strong network by connecting with people from various sectors. Understand that even small improvements can make a significant impact, so always strive for excellence in your work.
What makes you excited to go to work?
Opportunities to engage in innovative projects, especially those involving advanced technologies. I enjoy meeting new people, learning about new technologies, and exploring different places through work-related travel.
If you didn’t have to work, how would you spend your day?
I’m trying to figure that out as I start to look at retirement! I know that I love to be active and to be outdoors (as long as it’s warm). I also desire to keep learning and solve problems, and that will always be part of my lifestyle.
What activity gives you the most energy?
Meeting new people, visiting different manufacturing plants, digging into a problem to better understand issues.
What hobbies make you better at your career?
Quiet walks or runs, reading, and logic puzzles all help me to think more analytically, understand different perspectives, and allow me to reflect.
How does the work you do impact the world?
My work significantly impacts the world by ensuring that the U.S. warfighter always maintains a superior advantage. My organization is deeply involved in advancing technologies that enhance U.S. capabilities beyond those of our adversaries. This mission is especially meaningful to me, as I am married to a U.S. soldier who has been deployed many times. Knowing that the projects I support have a direct impact on the warfighter and U.S. defense capabilities fills me with immense pride and a sense of purpose as part of this team.
