Workforce News

Washington, D.C. (March 9, 2026) – The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, announced the 145 recipients of the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards. The Awards recognize manufacturing leaders at every stage of their careers—from the shop floor to the C-suite—who are strengthening the industry’s workforce and serving as role models for the next generation. 

For decades, manufacturers have faced a structural skilled workforce shortage. Today, there are over 400,000 open jobs in the sector. By 2033, manufacturers will need to fill 3.8 million positions, but half could go unfilled due to a lack of talent. While manufacturers have made significant investment in developing talent pipelines and recruiting new entrants into the manufacturing workforce, building strong workplace cultures that attract and retain employees has become a critical competitive advantage. 

The STEP Ahead Awards highlight leaders who are meeting this moment—championing mentorship and fostering supportive workplace environments. By elevating these leaders, the program helps more people see a clear and compelling future in modern manufacturing.  

Biogen Executive Vice President and Head of Pharmaceutical Operations and Technology Nicole Murphy said, “As chair of the STEP Ahead Awards, I’m honored to recognize distinguished leaders who are strengthening manufacturing excellence by investing in the future talent pipeline. With our industry facing a critical workforce challenge, real innovation will only come from empowering our workforces and nurturing the next generation of leaders through mentorship, sponsorship and serving as strong role models. These recipients are helping ensure manufacturing remains a place where talent can grow, thrive and build meaningful and impactful careers.” 

AstraZeneca Senior Vice President and Global Head of Pharmaceutical Technology and Development Dafni Bika said, “It’s a privilege to serve as vice chair of the STEP Ahead Awards and to highlight those who are reimagining what’s possible in our industry. I’m proud to see the next generation of female and ally leaders shaping the future of manufacturing and technology and inspiring others to see STEM careers as both meaningful and attainable.” 

MI President Carolyn Lee added, “The STEP Ahead Awards are truly a celebration of the outstanding character and contributions of so many members of the manufacturing workforce. Our industry is so fortunate to have so many inspiring leaders and mentors who are cultivating fulfilling workplace cultures that encourage people to join, stay and grow our workforce.” 

The 2026 STEP Ahead Awards Gala will take place April 23, 2026, at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. View the full list of awardees or learn more about the awards gala here. 

-The MI- 

The Manufacturing Institute works to build and strengthen the manufacturing workforce for individual opportunity, community prosperity and a competitive manufacturing industry for the future. This is done through implementing groundbreaking initiatives, convening industry leaders, conducting innovative research and promoting public policy that supports the sector as it meets the opportunity of modern manufacturing. As the 501(c)3 nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, the MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. For more information on the MI, please visit www.themanufacturinginstitute.org. 

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