Focus on: Cristi Cristich, Cristek Interconnects
Three decades ago, I read an article about Cristi Cristich that opened my eyes to the possibility of a meaningful career in the connector industry. Back in the 1980s, successful women in the connector world were few and far between. In fact, I can probably list all of them on one hand. Sure, it was OK for us to answer phones and work the telex machine, and even quote pricing as long as a male gave it to us. But beyond that, you didn’t see or hear much from women in this industry. I was one of only two women in all of TRW Electronics’ outside sales force. That may not mean much, but back in the 1980s, TRW was bigger than AMP (now TE Connectivity), Molex, and Amphenol. Cristi became an inspiration to me and other women. She became our mentor, our example, and proof that women could succeed in the world of connectors. She paved the way for many of us. Her success has been important not only to her, but to all women.

— Lynda Nolen, Bishop & Associates Inc.

Cristi Cristich
Current position: President and founder of Cristek Interconnects Inc. in Anaheim, California, and Lowell, Massachusetts.
Previous industry positions: I began as a receptionist at Stanford Applied Engineering at 18 and was fortunate to be given the opportunity to work in various sales, marketing, and operational roles until I started Cristek at age 23.
Industry affiliations or organizations: IPC, SAE, Nadcap.
Accomplishments you’re proud of: Never missing a payroll in over 25 years and providing a work environment centered on growth opportunities for our employees.
First job: Answering phones and helping with the books — actual books/hand ledgers in those days — for my pop’s small business.
Favorite website: Any site that has a mobile app I can use on my iPad.
The last book I read: Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged (for the third time).
Why did you choose this industry for your profession? It chose me! Right after high school graduation, I had to get a job to help pay for college. The job as a receptionist worked out great, the college…not so much, since I ended up dropping out after about two weeks to work full time in our industry.
If I knew then what I know now, I would have: No regrets!
The best advice anyone ever gave me was: “The only way out is always through.” My mom always told me that, but later I learned it was Robert Frost [who said it first].
What trend in the industry is affecting your job and what would you like to do about it? We’re affected by economic trends — especially in California. We face costs and regulatory pressures on all fronts, such as 40% workers’ comp insurance and health insurance increases, and commodity prices. They all make it tougher for us to create good jobs and pay our great employees what they deserve.