Rosie the Riveter

Rosie’s Legacy Lives On

During World War II, as men left for battle, women across the country rolled up their sleeves and stepped into factories, shipyards and assembly lines. Rosie the Riveter became the face of this movement—her determined gaze and bold declaration, “We Can Do It!” inspiring millions of women to take on jobs once thought to be beyond their reach. These women built aircrafts, welded ships and operated heavy machinery, proving not only their skills but also their indispensable role in the workforce. When the war ended, many women were expected to return home, but their contributions had already reshaped the workforce and the nation’s perception of what was possible. What began as a necessity in a time of crisis had illuminated a larger truth—women’s skills and expertise were not just invaluable during wartime, but essential to the future of industry. While some did leave their jobs, others remained and became vital contributors to America’s manufacturing workforce.  The shift sparked by Rosie’s generation made it clear that women can take on impactful careers in manufacturing and serve as powerful ambassadors of the opportunities that exist for women in our industry.  Over time, their presence in the workforce continued to grow, challenging outdated perceptions and paving the way for future generations. More than just a wartime figure, Rosie became a symbol of resilience and possibility—one that forever changed the role of women in the workforce.

Today, the Women MAKE Awards carry that same spirit forward, honoring the women who are shaping the future of manufacturing. Like Rosie and her peers, today’s female manufacturers are innovators, problem-solvers and leaders in an industry that is constantly changing, innovating and evolving. They are designing the products of tomorrow, driving efficiency on the factory floor and mentoring the next generation. Yet, despite the growing demand for skilled talent – evidenced by an average of 400,000 open manufacturing jobs monthly in America – women still make up less than one-third of the industry’s workforce. Initiatives like Women MAKE America are working to close this gap. By recognizing and elevating women in manufacturing, the awards honor individual achievements and inspire future generations to see manufacturing as a career where they belong and can thrive.

Rosie the Riveter remains a powerful icon for Women MAKE America because she embodies the resilience, skill and determination that define the women shaping the industry today. Her image is a lasting reminder that when given the opportunity, women have the power to transform industries and strengthen the nation’s economy—not just in times of crisis, but every day. As we honor the Women MAKE Awardees, we celebrate that same spirit of perseverance, ensuring that Rosie’s call to action continues to inspire generations to come.