STEP Ahead

I've been fortunate to have had several tremendous mentors in my career who challenged me, believed in me and helped me see possibilities I couldn't see on my own. I wouldn't be where I am without their investment, and I think about that often when I consider the professionals coming up in manufacturing today. Strong leaders rarely develop in isolation, yet too few have access to a structured mentoring experience. That's the gap the STEP Ahead Mentorship Program is built to close. Over six months, mentors strengthen their own leadership while helping someone else succeed. Mentees gain practical guidance, expand their networks and see new possibilities for their careers. Everyone benefits, and so does our industry. Sign-ups close Friday, July 10. Whether you're ready to share your experience or invest in your own growth, I encourage you to apply. Be a mentor: https://lnkd.in/ezkbjhS5 Be a mentee: https://lnkd.in/eBn_KDzR Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eFKEKD8B

ICYMI: The STEP Ahead Mentorship Program is currently accepting applications for its July-December cohort! We are seeking both mentors and mentees across all career levels for this 6-month experience designed to build meaningful connections, strengthen leadership and support career growth in manufacturing. Why participate? 🤝 91% of participants say their mentorship match was excellent  📈 80% say it boosted their confidence in their skillset Learn more and sign up today: https://lnkd.in/e6TPfV6f

For many in manufacturing, caregiving responsibilities don't begin after work—they're carried throughout the workday. Balancing work demands with caring for children, aging parents or other loved ones can create a strain on time, focus and energy. That's why The Manufacturing Institute - MI, in partnership with the Howmet Aerospace Foundation, is hosting our next Solution Series: "Preventing Burnout While Caring for Others." Join us next Wednesday at 11 a.m. ET for a webinar focused on practical strategies to manage stress, set boundaries and protect energy on and off the job. This session is designed for caregivers and for HR and people leaders looking to better support employees navigating these realities. Learn more and register: https://lnkd.in/dBSg4Gq3

Ready to grow or give back? The STEP Ahead Mentorship Program's July-December cohort is officially open for sign-ups! Whether you're early in your career or a seasoned professional, this 6-month program has something to offer. 💡 Mentees gain practical guidance and fresh perspectives to help navigate a manufacturing career, while 🏅 Mentors sharpen their leadership skills and experience the reward of shaping someone else's path. 🤝 By the end, all participants will walk away with stronger relationships, greater career clarity and a network built to last. Sign up today by creating an account and filling out your profile, sharing what you hope to achieve during the program. Be a mentor: https://lnkd.in/e745aipz Be a mentee: https://lnkd.in/euM5HGwg Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e6TPfV6f

What does it look like when a career in manufacturing is guided by a sense of purpose? For Nicole Murphy, Executive Vice President and Head of Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology at Biogen, the answer has taken shape over more than three decades, from her start as an engineer on a chemical plant floor to leading a team that develops medicine supporting Biogen’s portfolio in neurology, immunology and rare disease. As chair of the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards, she brought that same service-driven philosophy to one of manufacturing's biggest celebrations of leadership. Read her story: https://lnkd.in/eMsnDj59 Thank you, Nicole, for your leadership in recognizing this year's STEP Ahead awardees!

At the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards, manufacturing’s brightest leaders took center stage, celebrating both their achievements and the pathways they are creating for the next generation to follow. The gala, held last week in Washington, D.C., honored 145 exceptional leaders in the manufacturing industry who were nominated by their peers. These awardees, including 100 leaders (“Honorees”), 30 rising stars (“Emerging Leaders”) and 15 allies (“Champions”), serve as living proof of what’s possible in a manufacturing career. By celebrating their stories, we help reshape perceptions of the industry and showcase the wide array of talent that powers it. Read more: https://hubs.li/Q04dShFD0

Congratulations to the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards recipients! We’re proud to celebrate this incredible achievement and the lasting impact you’re making across the industry. By sharing your stories, you're inspiring the next generation to lead, innovate and shape the future of manufacturing.

Join us for a conversation featuring Patricia Hume, CEO and Co-Founder of Vector GFX and Principal at Advanced Mentorship! Drawing on more than four decades of executive leadership experience, including over 20 years in the C-suite, Patricia brings practical insight into how strong mentorship and sponsorship relationships shape long-term success. In this session you will:  ✔️ Understand the difference between mentorship and sponsorship and why both matter  ✔️ Learn how to identify and engage the right advocates  ✔️ Gain strategies to increase your visibility and position yourself for new opportunities  ✔️ Discover how to be an effective partner in mentorship and sponsorship relationships This session will occur virtually on Tuesday, April 7, 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET. Register here: https://lnkd.in/eTC5Di3n

We are pleased to announce the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards Emerging Leaders, Honorees and Champions! Manufacturing thrives because of workers like the 2026 Awardees—leaders who solve problems, drive innovation and open doors for others. Their character and professional achievements will have a lasting impact on their companies, their communities and the future of the manufacturing workforce. The Awards recognize manufacturing leaders at every stage of their careers—from the shop floor to the C-suite—who are strengthening the workforce, serving as role models and championing mentorship and supportive workplaces. By elevating these leaders, the STEP Ahead Awards help more people see a clear and compelling future in modern manufacturing. Join us in celebrating these inspiring leaders as we recognize their achievements and the incredible impact they have on the industry. Congratulations to all! 🎉 Learn more about the 2026 Awardees: https://lnkd.in/eEkuDb8P #STEPAhead #STEPAheadAwards #MFGLeaders