SME Announces New Workforce Development Award Program
Recognizing Excellence in Developing a Skilled Manufacturing Workforce
SOUTHFIELD, Mich., January 8, 2025 — SME, the nonprofit committed to advancing manufacturing and developing a skilled workforce, has announced a new award program, The Workforce Development Innovation Award, which recognizes organizations demonstrating exceptional commitment to developing a skilled manufacturing workforce. This prestigious award honors those who effectively prepare individuals for in-demand manufacturing jobs and support manufacturers by building a robust pipeline of qualified workers.
In today's rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, a skilled workforce is more critical than ever. This new award aims to highlight best practices in workforce development and provide a benchmark for organizations striving to create impactful workforce strategies. It celebrates organizations dedicated to upskilling employees, enhancing talent, and preparing both new and incumbent workers for successful manufacturing careers.
Nomination Eligibility & Requirements
Organizations interested in applying for the Workforce Development Innovation Award will be evaluated based on their excellence in the following areas:
- Processes and Programs: Implementation of effective workforce development initiatives.
- Curriculum: Development of comprehensive and impactful training programs.
- Quality and Continuous Improvement: Demonstrated commitment to enhancing workforce strategies over time.
- Training Infrastructure: Investment in infrastructure that supports sustainable workforce training.
Who Should Apply
The award is open to organizations dedicated to advancing workforce development in manufacturing, including:
- Community-Based Organizations
- Economic Development Agencies
- Workforce Development Agencies
- Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs)
Award Winner Will Receive
- An official award to showcase their achievement.
- The opportunity to participate in a Tooling U-SME webinar or podcast.
- Invitation to and recognition at the SME Awards Gala.
- Recognition through a robust publicity program highlighting their contributions to workforce development.
About the Workforce Development Innovation Award
The Workforce Development Innovation Award underscores the critical importance of developing a skilled manufacturing workforce to address industry needs. By recognizing organizations that go above and beyond in their workforce development initiatives, this award inspires others to adopt best practices and invest in building a stronger future for manufacturing. Applications are now accepted until February 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET.
SME will announce the winner of the Workforce Development Innovation Award in early spring. For more information or to submit a nomination, please visit our webpage.
About SME
Established in 1932 as a nonprofit organization, SME represents the entire North American manufacturing industry, including manufacturers, academia, professionals, students, and the communities in which they operate. We believe manufacturing holds the key to economic growth and prosperity, and champion the industry's potential as a diverse, thriving, and valued ecosystem. SME accelerates new technology adoption and builds North America’s talent and capabilities to advance manufacturing and drive competitiveness, resiliency, and national security. SME designs new ways to understand and solve problems, and our solutions advance the next wave of growth in manufacturing. Learn more at SME.org.