By Eileen (Roxy) Updyke

Abstract:

As lithium-ion batteries become ever more integral to modern technology - from smartphones and electric vehicles to grid-scale storage - the importance of getting safety right has never been higher. With risks like thermal runaway, chemical instability, and manufacturing variability, these high-energy systems require more than just attention to “Form, Fit, and Function.” They demand precision and discipline across the entire value stream - from supplier and material selection to final product delivery and customer support - where a strong safety culture is not just present but fully integrated into the overall quality culture.

This session explores how a Quality Management System (QMS) that embeds safety into every process is not just a best practice, but a critical line of defense for any organization. Through real-world incidents and hard-earned lessons, we’ll examine how even small lapses in discipline can lead to serious safety risks, operational disruptions, and reputational harm. We’ll also explore how proven systems like ISO 9001 can serve as the foundation for a culture of quality that extends beyond compliance - ensuring the production of safe, high-integrity battery products, and also the protection of the employees who make them.

Whether you're in manufacturing, quality, auditing, or engineering, this talk offers practical strategies for how quality professionals can lead the charge in powering safety - and the future of energy.

Bio:

Eileen (Roxy) Updyke was born and raised in the local area, and her entire professional career has been rooted in local manufacturing. After completing two years of college, she began her career at a local book bindery, which launched a lifelong commitment to manufacturing. After 20+ years of experience in bookbinding she spent another 20+ years in printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing—both at all levels of responsibility.

In September 2025, she joined Battery-NY as Quality Manager, following three years in the same role at Imperium3, manufacturing cutting edge lithium-ion batteries.

Over the years, Roxy has earned a reputation as being uncompromising on quality - only safety ranks higher in priority. The two often go hand in hand, and safety is built into all of her systems.

Before joining Battery-NY, she was instrumental in designing and implementing quality systems across multiple industries. These systems consistently passed rigorous audits, including those required for lithium-ion battery certification, ISO and IPC certifications, and military compliance under MIL-PRF-31032. Her broad experience uniquely equips her to lead the development of a world-class Quality Management System—one that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our most demanding customers.

Outside of work, Roxy is a passionate lifelong learner. She holds three academic degrees, a Six Sigma Green Belt, and numerous certifications across a wide range of disciplines.

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