In this episode of Beyond the Blend, Steve Knapp speaks with Vanda Franco, a reliability and lubrication professional whose career has taken her from Portugal to Qatar through marine chemistry, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, oil analysis and machine reliability.

Vanda shares her remarkable journey of continuous learning, adapting to new industries and building credibility in a traditionally male-dominated environment. From teaching science to young children to helping industrial plants improve reliability and avoid costly shutdowns, her passion for education and problem-solving shines throughout.

The conversation explores machine reliability, the importance of listening to what lubricants and equipment are telling us, and why determination, curiosity and resilience remain essential for anyone building a career in the industry.

💡 What You'll Hear

• From aspiring nurse to reliability specialist
• Building an international career across multiple industries
• Creating a reputation in the Middle East reliability sector
• Why oil and machines are always communicating
• The difference between consumables and strategic assets
• Advice for the next generation entering lubricants and reliability

👤 Guest

Vanda Franco

Reliability, Condition Monitoring & Lubrication Professional

🔗 Connect

Connect with Vanda Franco on LinkedIn and follow Beyond the Blend for more conversations with the people shaping the lubricant industry.