Brielle Seminerio, the distinguished President of Brewster Washers, represents a new generation of leadership at the helm of a century-old family business. Brielle’s connection to the company is deeply rooted in its history. Growing up around the operations of Brewster Washers, she was exposed to the inner workings of the business from an early age—whether it was folding cardboard boxes for shipping or sitting alongside her grandmother, learning the functions of a typewriter. After earning her degree from Miami University in 2016, Brielle returned to Brewster Washers, gradually rising through the ranks from inspection to shipping operations manager. In 2023, she took on the mantle of leadership after the passing of her father, Salvatore Freda Jr., who had modernized the company and pushed its capabilities forward with new technologies like Wire Electrical Discharge Machining.
In her present role, Brielle breaks new ground. She’s tasked with leading a 100-year legacy into the future while reshaping the landscape of an industry historically ruled by men. This resonates deeply with the profound words of Diane Mariechild: “A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture, and transform.” Brielle embodies this sentiment, bringing a unique blend of innovation, compassion, and a deep-rooted understanding of the company’s heritage to her role.
This sagacious professional is driven to propel Brewster Washers to enduring success. Her vision hinges on nurturing a high-octane team, streamlining operations for peak efficiency, and boldly venturing into new markets. But Brielle’s ambition extends beyond profits. She’s a champion for women in manufacturing, dedicated to cultivating a pipeline of future leaders who will shatter glass ceilings and ignite a new wave of transformation and inclusivity within the industry.
A Family Legacy: The Brewster Washers Story
Brewster Washers was founded by William H. Brewster Jr. in 1919 in Newark, New Jersey. Brielle described William as a progressive man and a forward thinker who invested in the future of his company in 1957 and built a factory in Fairfield, where the company operates even today. Unfortunately, William did not live to witness its inauguration, leaving the company’s responsibility to his two daughters, Katherine and Marguerite Brewster.
As for the Freda family, their paths clashed when Brielle’s grandfather, Salvatore Freda Senior, a metal salesman at that time, sold to the Brewsters. Eventually, the Brewsters took him into the team, and he became the lead foreman overseeing production. After the Brewster Sisters passed, Salvatore officially took over the Brewster Washers and ran it until his passing in 2015. Salvator Freda Jr., Brielle’s father, joined the Brewster team in 1997 and continued to run it after his father’s passing.
In the 21st century, Brielle’s father began modernizing the company by eliminating typewriters and introducing more advanced technology. He decided to upgrade to Wire Electrical Discharge Machining, which significantly expanded the Brewster Washer’s capability to manufacture, in his words, more “funky looking parts.”
Brielle grew up folding cardboard to make shipping boxes, coloring the supply closet, and sitting on her grandmother’s lap while figuring out the typewriter. She graduated from Miami University in 2016 and later returned to the company, to her father, working her way up from inspection to shipping operations manager. She is now the successor of Salvatore Freda Jr. in 2023 as President of Brewster Washers after his passing. She could only describe it as “having some big shoes to fill.”
Maneuvering Challenges and Cultivating Growth in a Male-Dominated Industry
For Brielle, challenges are the wind beneath her wings. She believes complacency is the true poison, and she thrives on the exhilarating chaos of an unpredictable journey. Her career has been a wild ride, full of unexpected twists and turns.
There are two challenges she sees herself needing to overcome. Firstly, as a woman navigating a male-dominated industry, she’s determined to break the mold. She actively seeks opportunities to make her voice heard – from bustling networking events to public speaking platforms – proving that gender shouldn’t limit ambition. A woman can do anything a man could.
Then there’s the weight of running a heritage brand with century old reputation. She is eager to uphold and expand it. However, maintaining consistent quality while venturing into a competitive market is a tightrope walk. One misstep could jeopardize everything. From every obstacle, Brielle uncovers a blueprint for metamorphosis. While others see walls, she sees the way forward. She’s built resilience brick by brick, keeps climbing—higher, stronger, and always ahead.
Building an Inclusive Workplace: Diversity Initiatives at Brewster
At Brewster Washers, fostering diversity and inclusion goes beyond policies—it’s woven into day-to-day interactions. Employees and leaders undergo training to recognize and challenge decision-making, hiring, and promotions, shaping a culture where everyone feels valued. The company also emphasizes cross-training, equipping employees with the skills to step into different roles when needed. This strengthens teamwork and ensures smooth operations, even in a colleague’s absence. In Brielle’s words: “We all wear many different hats and are able to pick up if someone calls out sick.”
Motivating the Team at Brewster Washers
Brielle, a true leader, juggles a packed schedule without sacrificing her team’s spirit. She understands everyone thrives differently, so she customizes motivation like a tailor-made suit.
Here are two ways she keeps her team fired up:
Set a clear and inspiring vision: Brielle knows that people are more motivated when they understand the larger purpose of their work. So, employees and leaders at Brewsters Washers communicate with each other. Such mindful exercise helps them to see how the team’s efforts contribute to the development of the organization’s mission and how each work matters to piece together a bigger picture.
Align personal and team goals: She encourages employees to set personal and professional goals aligning with the team’s mission. When people feel their growth and success are tied to the team’s success, it can boost motivation.
The Power of Reflection and Curiosity
Brielle credits much of her success to a simple yet powerful habit: consistent reflection. Despite her busy schedule, she carves out precious moments each day to pause and assess her actions honestly. This isn’t about self-criticism; it’s about celebrating wins, identifying blind spots, and learning from both triumphs and setbacks. This practice keeps her grounded, adaptable, and laser-focused on what truly matters.
But Brielle doesn’t stop there. She’s a lifelong learner, actively seeking knowledge and always eager to explore new ideas and perspectives. Whether diving into a challenging blueprint course, engaging in thought-provoking conversations, or simply staying open to fresh viewpoints, she believes that curiosity helps her adapt and stay creative—both essential for success in any field.
Recognized for Leadership: “One to Watch” Award
Ranked among “The Most Inspiring Women Leading Business in 2025,” she is like a force of nature—unstoppable, ever-evolving, and impossible to ignore. However, when asked about an award she’s particularly proud of, Brielle’s eyes light up. She mentions the “One to Watch” award she received from the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey (CIANJ) on August 16, 2023, at their third annual awards ceremony. It was her father who nominated her, recognizing her remarkable ability to step up and take on greater responsibilities during a difficult time in their lives. While he battled leukemia in the hospital, Brielle seamlessly stepped into his shoes, demonstrating maturity and resilience beyond her years.
Staying Ahead: Innovation and Investment at Brewster Washers
Brewster Washers’ President shares that the company stays ahead of the curve and innovations by networking and keeping up with industry trends and new business opportunities. Brielle believes that staying abreast with latest happenings and innovations means investing in your company and your employees. Employees are given learning opportunities whenever an educational class or something new is introduced. The organization also invests in new machinery to keep up with the demand and expand our capabilities.
The Road Ahead: The Elaborate Plan for Brewster Washers
Inspired by a philosophy, “You don’t have to be perfect to be an excellent leader. You just have to be yourself and keep moving forward,” Brielle perseverates with unabashed authenticity, inspiring others to embrace their unique strengths. This mindset guides her to accelerate Brewsters Washers’ expansion and development.
She has multiple goals for her company; one of them is to find ways to increase operational efficiency. It aims to streamline production processes to reduce waste, improve product quality, and lower costs. Simultaneously, there is heightened focus on investing in new tools to introduce automation where possible to increase production speed, reduce errors and free up workers for other, more high-value tasks.
Another goal is to enhance workforce development and invest in employees by providing regular training in new technologies, safety protocols, and leadership skills to ensure employees remain sharp. And, of course, expanding the market and attending new trade shows in the US to give Brewster Washers a platform and a name.
Mantra for Work-life Balance
The adept business leader compares balancing personal life and professional responsibilities to a juggling act. In a senior role like hers, the pressure to excel is immense. Yet, she firmly believes that success isn’t measured solely by productivity. “My father always told me, ‘It can wait till tomorrow,’ and sometimes I have to remind myself that so I can leave the office and go home to my family,” Brielle shares.
As she understands the importance of setting boundaries, she implements strategies to keep work-talk out of the home. To her, work-life integration isn’t about merging them but finding the sweet spot – giving your all at work while prioritizing your well-being. This includes taking a short break, meditating, or simply taking a deep breath before diving into the day’s to-do list. Mindfulness helps Brielle stay present, reducing stress and allowing her to engage fully in both work and personal life. She declares that weekends are sacred, a time to recharge and reconnect with her friends and family.
Empowering Gen-Next
This visionary executive hopes to encourage future generations of women leaders by fostering self-confidence, resilience, and a belief in their potential. One key impact she’d like to have on women leaders is helping them understand that leadership doesn’t have a fixed formula. “I want them to know that leadership is not just about authority or titles; it’s about influence, compassion, and the ability to inspire others,” Brielle adds. She also wants leaders to support one another and create spaces where collaboration and diversity of thought can thrive. She regards that cultivating a community of empowered women can break down barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and make a world where leadership isn’t defined by gender but by vision, determination, and integrity.
The Future of Women in Business: Brielle’s Advice to Aspiring Leaders
In recent years, the landscape of the manufacturing industry which is traditionally dominated by men has experienced a profound shift. It is now driven by the increasing involvement of women entrepreneurs and leaders and is reshaping how business is conducted. Experts predict that the future of manufacturing will see a more inclusive, dynamic approach where diversity of thought and perspective brings innovation to the forefront. As Brielle articulates, “The future of manufacturing is limitless, and women are at the heart of its transformation. Our resilience, creativity, and determination are the tools that will shape a stronger, more innovative industry.”
Brielle, like many other women entrepreneurs, is a testament to this growing presence, forging pathways for others by stepping into leadership roles and collaborating with top industry figures. As more women come to the table, they offer fresh insights and solutions, catalyzing growth and fostering an environment welcoming and celebrating diverse leadership. This evolution enriches the manufacturing sector, creating a stronger, more adaptable industry poised for future success. It paves path for equity and equality, fostering a gender-neutral ecosystem.
Having scaled the heights and weathered the storms of success, this apt leader imparts invaluable wisdom to those eager to follow in her footsteps. True to the adage “with great power comes great responsibility,” she feels a deep sense of duty to guide aspiring women leaders toward becoming forces for good in the world. Brielle advises, “Women leaders should stay true to themselves and always follow their gut instincts in what they believe is right.” She also counsels them always to have a good wardrobe for professional events. She considers, “If you look good, you’ll feel good.”
