Women & Veterans in Manufacturing
Trailblazing Women Shaping the Future of Manufacturing
Monday, October 27 | 9:30 - 11:00 am (ET)
Veterans Metal (9310 Ulmerton Rd, Building 3-100, Largo, FL 33771)
Beth Galic
President, Bay Area Manufacturers Association
Beth is the President of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA), where she has strengthened networking, resources, and support for manufacturers across the Tampa Bay region. With experience in water treatment, chemical, and injection molding sectors, Beth brings deep industry knowledge and a passion for growth and innovation. She began with BAMA as a Board member and has since driven strategic growth, community partnerships, and member engagement. Beyond BAMA, Beth serves on the Boards of CareerSource Pasco Hernando and Soroptimist Pasco, as well as advisory committees for the Florida SBDC at USF and St. Petersburg College, where she helps shape workforce development, education, and community initiatives.
Sydney Kossowski
Co-Owner, Veterans Metal
Sydney is the Co-Owner and Account Manager of Veterans Metal, where she oversees finance, administration, and customer operations in support of the company’s NADCAP-certified finishing services. She brings over two decades of experience in banking, sales, and business development, including senior roles at SunTrust Bank and YMCA South Dade, where she was recognized for top performance and leadership. At Veterans Metal, Sydney combines her financial expertise and people-focused leadership to strengthen operations and ensure customer satisfaction. Beyond her professional role, Sydney is a proud mother of two. Her daughter serves as Office Supervisor at Veterans Metal, and her son is on active duty in the U.S. Army.
Lynette Barry
Founder & CEO, Infinity Industrial Controls
Lynette is the founder and CEO of Infinity Industrial Controls (IIC), which she launched in 2010 with a vision to revitalize American industry through advanced automation. Under her leadership, IIC has grown into a nationally recognized provider of custom industrial control panels and automation solutions serving industries from water and wastewater to manufacturing, transportation, and beyond. A Tampa native, Lynette is passionate about strengthening the local economy and developing workforce talent. She serves as Lead Automation Advisor on the Electrical Automation Advisory Committee at Pinellas Technical College, where she helps shape curriculum to prepare the next generation of highly skilled electrical professionals.
Cristine Torrefranca, CPA
Senior Manager, Saltmarsh
Cristine is a Senior Manager at Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund, where she provides audit and assurance services to clients in the manufacturing, distribution, and construction industries. With over 15 years of experience in public accounting, Cristine has extensive expertise managing audit engagements for privately held companies and supporting clients through complex financial reporting requirements. Cristine also serves as Treasurer and Executive Committee member for the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA) and is actively involved with Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay, supporting education and workforce development initiatives in the community.
