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Life at Eaton | Blog

Powering Careers Through Connection: Success Stories from LDP Alumni

At Eaton, the Leadership Development Program (LDP) provides not only hands-on experience and leadership training, but also unlimited access to a supportive, diverse network that lasts well beyond the years of the program. In this article, we highlight LDP alumni who have used the skills and networking opportunities they’ve gained through the program to grow and thrive in different roles across the company. They reflect on how they got to where they are today and share invaluable insights with those who are just starting their careers. 

Career advancement stories from our team

Rowher

Ryan Rohwer

Human Resources LDP, now, Director EatonCare 

“A career isn’t built in a single job, a single location, or a single year.  A career spans decades, so take your time.  Find the right roles for your learning and don’t be afraid to stay a little longer.”

Ryan's career advancement path:

  1. Human Resources (HR) Leadership Development Program 
  2. HR Manager
  3. Product Line Manager
  4. Regional HR Manager
  5. Director EatonCare 

How did the Leadership Development Program influence your career path?

I made connections and friends in the LDP that have helped me succeed in my career.  I had exposure to what the LDPs were doing in IT, Finance, HR, Supply Chain, and Operations.  I also had exposure to long-tenured professionals that taught me so much. Through the program and the connections I made, I was able to get a bigger picture of the work that Eaton does; jumpstarting my learning and understanding.  This network is still in place today as LDPs and tenured professionals I worked with across Eaton have moved into leadership positions of various functions and businesses.  Eaton’s a big company, but when you have a good network, you can always find someone who can help you get things done. 
Parsons

Becky Parsons

Fluid Power Group LDP, now, General Manager

“Focus on the experiences you gain from roles, not a title or a salary band.”

Becky's career advancement path:

  1. Fluid Power Group Leadership Development Program
  2. Process Engineer, Hydraulics
  3. Heavy Duty Assembly Business Team Leader
  4. Quality, Engineering and Continuous Improvement Manager
  5. Product Line Manager
  6. Plant Manager
  7. Global Clutch Product Strategy Manager
  8. Global Product Director
  9. General Manager – Conveyance Products

How did the Leadership Development Program influence your career path? 

While in college, I had several internships/co-ops, yet I was still unsure on what career path I wanted post college. I purposefully only really looked at companies that had Leadership Development Programs, as I wanted early in my career to experience different aspects of business and the company. All my rotations were impactful in my development, however, I would say my Front-Line Leader role was the one that really set me on my career path. I loved working on the shop floor, troubleshooting issues and making sure my team members were able to do their job safely, with high level of quality and efficiently. Most importantly, I realized that these team members are the ones that are creating the ultimate value for our customer. So from there I started exploring an operational path which led me to the Plant Manager role several roles and years later.
Ranft

Brian Ranft

Operational Excellence LDP, now, Regional Manager

“Embrace every opportunity to learn, whether it's through formal training, on-the-job experiences, or from colleagues. Continuous learning will keep you adaptable and open to new ideas, which is crucial for long-term success.”

Brian's career advancement path:

  1. Operational Excellence Leadership Development Program (Now Operations Management LDP)
  2. Production Supervisor
  3. Supplier Quality Specialist
  4. Global Category Manager
  5. Corporate - Manager, Global Categories
  6. AI Strategic Sourcing Manager
  7. Electrical AMER - Regional Manager

How did the Leadership Development Program influence your career path?

The LDP program has been instrumental in helping me build trust and quickly gain larger responsibilities in my roles. I swiftly connected with other LDPs, forming a network that has significantly benefited my career. This network allows me to connect with various parts of the organization and functions, enabling me to learn and apply that knowledge to develop diverse and multi-functional solutions. The training from the LDP program provides a deep understanding of Eaton's business and culture, giving a valuable advantage in early career progression that continues to benefit throughout one's career. My flexibility in roles and opportunities has enabled me to progress rapidly in my 12-year career, spanning 4 businesses, 5 functions, and 8 roles.
Silva

Ronaro Silva

Finance LDP, now, Finance Manager

“Spend time creating a development plan. Engage in discussions with your manager and peers to gain a better perspective on what areas you should focus on for growth. Consider where you want to move next and reflect on the skills and knowledge you need to acquire to achieve those goals.”

Ronaro's career advancement path:

  1. Finance Leadership Development Program
  2. Controller and FP&A Analyst
  3. FP&A Specialist
  4. Controller CPDI Brazil
  5. Controller CPDI Mercosul
  6. Global FP&A Manager
  7. Finance Manager

How did the Leadership Development Program influence your career path?

The opportunity to work directly with senior leaders helped me a lot to improve not only my leadership skill but my strategic point of view. Being exposed to different situations also developed my financial skills faster than I expected and finally, the networking opportunity I always had moving from different roles.

The experiences shared by Eaton’s Leadership Development Program alumni highlight the power of connection, continuous learning, and purposeful career development. Their journeys demonstrate how early exposure to diverse roles and strong networks can shape an impactful career.

As you consider your own professional path, think about how you can leverage the relationships, skills, and insights you’re building today. Stay curious, seek out new challenges, and don’t underestimate the value of mentorship and collaboration. Your career is a journey, and the foundation you’re laying now will support your growth for years to come.

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