Did you know that fluid power technology helps make things move—from airplane wings and construction equipment to theme park rides and electric vehicles? It’s the driving force behind innovation in industries like aerospace, entertainment, and transportation.
In this recording, engineers Ada Leung, Cindy Cookson, and Sharvari Divey Teall share their journeys and insights during a panel discussion facilitated by members of the National Girls Collaborative Project's Youth Advisory Board.
This town hall was hosted by NGCP and the National Fluid Power Association on December 3, 2025.
Additional Resources:
- Learn more about the National Fluid Power Association: https://www.nfpa.com/
- Apply for a National Fluid Power Association Scholarship Information: https://www.nfpa.com/grantsandscholarships#scholarship
- Explore Companies In the Industry: https://www.nfpa.com/companiesintheindustry
- Submit your resume to be shared with US-based employers in the fluid power industry: https://www.nfpa.com/career-information-2
- Learn more about the International Fluid Power Society, including free certification opportunities: www.ifps.org
Ada Leung
Vice President of Sales at Anfield Sensors Inc.
My career highlight was realizing that having an engineering background enabled me to be able to learn and adapt in various facets of an organization. It has allowed me to pivot into different roles, and now I very much enjoy the ability to travel and communicate with clients around the world. I started off as an engineer and had the opportunity to move into different technical roles and now into sales. My passion is driven by seeing success within the organization, traveling, and playing competitive sports.
Cindy Cookson
Vice President and General Manager, North America Fluid Power at Gates Corporation
I have served as Vice President and General Manager for Gates Corporation’s North America Fluid Power business unit for nearly two years of my 12 years with Gates. In this critical role, I lead the team responsible for both growth and operational success. Over my two decades in the rubber industry, I’ve built a career that spans engineering, manufacturing, and product leadership, providing me a 360-degree view of what it takes to deliver innovation and impact. As a lifelong Girl Scout and a new student of Mahjong, I bring curiosity, resilience, and a sense of community to everything I do.
Sharvari Divey Teall
Group Leader – Hydraulics at Crown Equipment Corporation
I began my career as a fluid power engineer immediately after graduating from college. I have applied my expertise in system design and modeling across various sectors, including agriculture, forestry, off-highway vehicles, and, most recently, the material handling industry. Currently, I serve as the Group Leader for Hydraulics at Crown Equipment Corporation, where I lead a team of four hydraulic engineers. I have always been passionate about Fluid and Thermal Sciences, and my work in hydraulics aligns perfectly with my interests. Fun Fact: I graduated alongside an incredible cohort of 45 female Mechanical Engineers!
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