Fluid power might be the most overlooked career path in engineering, and Jackie Collins makes the case for why that needs to change now. From her unlikely start at NC State to becoming Director of Marketing and Training at Livingston and Haven, Jackie shares how hands-on experience, culture, and real technical development create stronger employees and better companies.
Jackie’s story starts with a recruiting visit that she almost ignored and turns into a lesson in why the best industry opportunities often hide in plain sight. She and Meghann unpack how a year-long associate development program gave her exposure to the shop floor, panel building, warehouse, inside sales, marketing, and outside sales—and why that kind of rotation still matters for building well-rounded talent.
You’ll discover why training is becoming a bigger priority for companies trying to keep employees engaged, how retirement is creating a dangerous knowledge gap across manufacturing, and why troubleshooting labs and hands-on learning are still the fastest way to build real competence. Jackie also explains how Livingston and Haven hires for character and curiosity first, then teaches the technical pieces, and why that approach works in a small, relationship-driven industry.
We break down how customer expectations have changed too. Today’s buyers want more than a line card or a parts-in-a-box sale—they want subject matter experts who can understand the machine, the system, and the problem behind it. Jackie shares how the distributor role has evolved into a true solutions and integration mindset, especially as hybridization, automation, and electrification make the technical bar higher than ever.
If you work in fluid power, automation, manufacturing, sales, training, or hiring, this conversation is a timely reminder that the next generation needs to be reached earlier, trained better, and shown that this industry still offers real variety, job security, and meaningful careers. Perfect for anyone trying to recruit talent, retain it, or understand where the industry is headed next.
Featured speakers:
Meghann Cook — Host of UnfilteredFlowELSC, guiding the conversation on industry progression, talent development, and the future of fluid power.
Jackie Collins — Director of Marketing and Training at Livingston and Haven, bringing experience in engineering, sales, operations, marketing, hiring, and technical training.