Innovation is built by people who aren’t afraid to step into challenging spaces, ask bold questions, and shape what comes next. For FAST Product Manager Mallory Sagedahl, that spirit shows up in her work within the Engineering Department at our Glenwood facility and also at home, where she’s raising two daughters who are discovering their own creative and technical passions.
This Mother’s Day, we’re proud to spotlight Mallory and her daughters, Kylee (18) and Reese (14), whose shared curiosity and support for one another reflect the heart of FAST’s culture.
Engineering a Life Full of Creativity and Connection
With two teenagers, and Kylee off to college next year, Mallory knows that time together is something to treasure. Their family rhythm shifts with the seasons where Minnesota summers are spent on the boat “pretending” to fish, and winters are filled with creativity and experimentation.
Lately, that creativity has taken a new shape in the families 3D printer.
This home gadget has quickly turned into a hands‑on playground for ideas, especially for Reese, who has begun exploring engineering concepts with growing excitement.
“Watching Reese explore engineering and creating has been especially fun,” Mallory shared. “It’s been a great way for us to learn and build things together.”
A Woman Leading in a Traditionally Male‑Dominated Space
As a Product Manager in Engineering, Mallory works in a field where women are still underrepresented. But she doesn’t let that define her and lets her work speak for itself.
And she hopes her daughters see that.
“I hope they see that no matter what their interests are, they don’t need to fear who else might be in the room,” she said.
“Their voice and perspective have value, and they belong at the table just as much as anyone else.”
Advice for Young Women Considering Engineering or Manufacturing
Mallory’s guidance echoes the encouragement she gives her own daughters:
“Don’t be afraid to chase what you’re passionate about, and don’t let perceived barriers, including who you think might be in the room, hold you back.”
She also reminds young women that support is more abundant than they might expect.
“There are far more people who want to see you succeed than you might realize. Seek them out and let them support you.”
Her words reflect the same collaborative, people‑first culture that defines FAST.
The Family Behind the Career
Every strong professional has a support system at their back, and Mallory is quick to acknowledge hers.
“One thing that helps me succeed is the flexibility my family shows when workdays run long,” she said. “We support each other and share the load (sometimes laundry), which makes a bigger difference than they probably realize.”
Success is a team effort built on understanding, shared responsibilities, and a whole lot of love.
A Mother’s Day Story That Reflects FAST’s Values
Between balancing leadership in engineering, to raising two confident, creative daughters, Mallory reminds all of us that innovation and resilience are what we need to shape the future. A future where her daughters, and young women everywhere, can see themselves in any room, any role, and any industry.
This Mother’s Day, we celebrate Mallory, Kylee, and Reese, and all the mothers at FAST who inspire us through the work they do and the families they raise.