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Abby Causey knows firsthand what it’s like to have someone invest in your career. Now, as a plant manager at The Timken Company, she’s paying that confidence forward, mentoring rising leaders while running one of the company’s largest facilities.

Path to plant manager: Working hands-on with 3D printers and metal castings during a class at Ohio State University sparked Causey’s interest in manufacturing. An internship at Timken confirmed it was the right career path. She then had the opportunity to join the company full-time through its Operations Development Program (ODP), Timken’s accelerated talent development program. The ODP strengthens new recruits’ skills, knowledge and network, and has produced many of Timken’s plant and operations leaders.

• After completing the two-year ODP, her first manager gave her additional opportunities to grow. “He really pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I grew immensely under his leadership. His belief in me really made me believe in myself,” she said.
• Causey advanced through a series of roles at Timken’s Shiloh, North Carolina facility before becoming a plant manager. Timken later promoted her to lead the larger Bucyrus, Ohio facility, the role she’s in today.

Leadership starts with trust: When Causey arrived in Shiloh, employees didn’t feel heard by leadership. She focused on listening, following through and investing in improvements employees cared about.

• “A positive workplace culture directly improves your operational performance. Employees who feel heard and valued improve their performance. They feel more connected to their company, and they want it to do well,” said Causey.

Giving back through mentorship: Today, Causey mentors rising leaders through the ODP, the STEP Ahead mentorship program and informally within her plant, paying forward the investment Timken and others made in her. “I believe I am where I am today because of that investment, and now it’s my turn to help grow the next generation,” said Causey.

A culture of belonging: Causey is also involved with Timken’s Celebrating Abilities Network (CAN), a grassroots employee resource group that supports individuals with physical and mental disabilities and caregivers. For Causey, it’s another way Timken supports its people.

• She initially joined CAN to better support her nephews with special needs. However, after being diagnosed with a voice disorder, the CAN community helped her navigate the diagnosis.
• “Disability can impact anyone at any point in their career. Having a safe place they can go to when that happens makes a huge impact,” said Causey.

A recognized leader: The 2026 STEP Ahead Awards recognized Causey as an Honoree for her culture-building leadership at Timken. Hosted by the Manufacturing Institute, the NAM’s 501(c)3 workforce and education affiliate, the Awards celebrate manufacturing leaders helping the next generation see themselves in the industry.

• “It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget to look back and see everything you’ve accomplished. Receiving this award has really caused me to reflect in meaningful ways,” she said.

The last word: “Growth happens outside of your comfort zone. Say yes to opportunities that make you nervous. There’s never been a role I’ve taken where I thought, ‘I’m ready for this,’” said Causey. “And I believe there is a place for everyone in manufacturing. If you don’t think someone like you is represented, you may be surprised.”

The next class: Nominations for the 2027 STEP Ahead Awards are open through Friday, Oct. 2. See the nomination form and additional details in the 2027 STEP Ahead Nominations Guide.