MAJ Archives

A journalist's profile, stories and career in the field of journalism. Know a journalist who should be profiled here? Send an e-mail to Janet E. Bardon.

February 15, 2002
Peter Fretty
petefretty@aol.com
http://pfretty.netfirms.com

With a BA in management and an MBA in marketing, my career actually started in the business world - automotive and aerospace manufacturing to be exact. After a series of positions in manufacturing ranging from sales to operations management, I knew that there had to be something better out there. Rather than continuing to subject myself to more headaches I decided a few years back that I would finally follow my passion. I decided it was time to give writing a shot.

I started my writing career by submitting an article to a trade publication in the manufacturing arena. Coming from the rush, rush, rush world of manufacturing, I did not know all of the "ins and outs" of the industry (editorial calendars, copy deadlines, etc.), so I was a little disheartened when I did not immediately hear back from the editor. After finally receiving an overwhelmingly positive response along with a handful of assignments five months later, I went full force towards my new career.

I have since written hundreds of articles for a dozen different magazines including Advanced Manufacturing, Industrial Management, Cutting Tool Engineering, Plant Engineering and Maintenance, and Industrial Distribution. I continue to write for magazines, primarily covering advances in technology.

Although I enjoy the challenge of each new writing assignment, I have most thoroughly enjoyed cover story "profiles" of leading executives. It is always interesting to talk to these individuals about the decisions they have made along their journey. My most recent profile was of Bill George, the soon to be retired Chairman of Medtronic - considered to be the Microsoft of the medical technology industry.

What is my advice to those just starting out in journalism? Be confident in your abilities and follow the beat that truly correlates with your passion in life. The more you enjoy the topic the better the piece will turn out. Always pay attention to the advice editors provide - the information they provide is invaluable to your future. I know I am truly indebted to the many editors that I have worked with along the way.