Business and community leaders gather on stage for a traditional Japanese ceremony — Kagami Biraki, or a sake barrel opening — as part of the Grand Opening Ceremony for Panasonic Energy's new EV battery facility in De Soto, KS.

Building the Future, Together: Voices from Panasonic Energy De Soto

  • our people

At Panasonic Energy, our people are our greatest strength. We’re proud to introduce four individuals whose expertise, passion, and commitment embody what it means to build a sustainable future together.

July 21, 2025 / 2 min read

The opening of Panasonic Energy’s EV battery facility in De Soto, Kansas, marks more than a milestone for our company — it represents the start of something bigger. Inside this facility, you’ll find more than cutting-edge technology. You’ll find people from all walks of life, united by shared values: pride in their work, belief in possibility, and the drive to build a better future — for themselves, their families, and their community.

Our team is guided by purpose and grounded in opportunity. Hear directly from some of the individuals powering our progress in De Soto:

MaLinda Somerville, Apprentice VI Formation at Panasonic Energy

“Being part of Panasonic Energy means a better life for my son. It means a new direction of life. Up!”

- MaLinda Somerville, Apprentice VI Formation

Ramon Sebilla, Production Supervision - Formation/VI at Panasonic Energy

“After I applied, I did some research on Panasonic, and I read about the 7 Principles: Contribution to Society, Fairness & Honesty, Cooperation & Team Spirit, Untiring Effort for Improvement, Courtesy & Humility, Adaptability and Gratitude. I was hooked.”

- Ramon Sebilla, Production Supervision - Formation/VI

Kozue Smith, Project Manager at Panasonic Energy

“I’m truly excited to be working with Panasonic, a company that holds personal significance to my family. My father was an engineer at Panasonic long before I was born, so joining PECNA feels like coming full circle.”

- Kozue Smith, Project Manager

Tristan Lowe, SMT 1 – Formation at Panasonic Energy

“I have watched this building rise from the ground and wanted to work for Panasonic since I learned about the project. I’m excited about future growth and leadership opportunities to establish myself financially and plan for my future.”

- Tristan Lowe, SMT 1 – Formation

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