As International Women’s Day approaches, it’s an honor to spotlight Robin Schilz, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Twin Disc. Robin’s story is a testament to the transformative power of inclusion and the boundless potential of women in leadership. 

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin with a degree in industrial engineering, Robin initially embarked on a career in manufacturing operations. However, her trajectory shifted to IT when management consulting companies were hiring and training resources during the boom in ERP systems. Afterwards, she continued to broaden her IT expertise with large capital companies, which ultimately paved the way for her ascension to the role of Twin Disc’s CIO. 

“Before joining Twin Disc, I had never been a CIO,” noted Robin. “Twin Disc not only gave me the opportunity, but everyone from my team to the CEO accepted and supported me.” 

Reflecting on her journey, Robin offers invaluable advice to aspiring women: “Don’t be afraid of taking an opportunity because you don’t know everything. Get comfortable learning to figure things out.”  

Since taking over the role in July 2019, Robin has been entrusted with leading the organization’s IT initiatives and aligning technology with strategic objectives. Her responsibilities encompass a wide array of tasks, from IT leadership and strategic planning to information security and workforce management. She credits the organization for embracing her as a leader, providing her with opportunities to contribute at the highest levels of decision-making. From leadership team meetings to board gatherings, Robin has been given a seat at the table, enabling her to shape the company’s strategy and execution. 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Robin’s message on why it is important to #InspireInclusion is clear: “Inclusion fosters a positive atmosphere where everyone feels accepted and respected. When everyone is comfortable being themselves and is able to contribute in their own way to the success of the team and organization, this boosts employee satisfaction and loyalty to the organization.”  

Robin journey is a testament to the transformative power of inclusion and the potential of women in leadership. Her story inspires us to break barriers, challenge norms, and create a future where diversity is celebrated and valued. Her words serve as a reminder of the importance of gender equality and inclusion in creating workplaces where everyone can thrive.