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Celebrating Black History Month

We are proud to celebrate those within the Black Community who’ve contributed and continue to support advancements in manufacturing. The manufacturing community has taken steps toward building a diverse and inclusive culture. It’s our responsibility to continue to break down barriers that exclude these underrepresented communities from an industry that is in much need of creative, energetic, qualified, and skilled employees. Meet the individuals who started this movement of diversity, equity, and inclusion within manufacturing, and learn more about the people and programs leading the charge today.

The New Faces of Manufacturing: DE&I at Work

Sheronda Carr, Senior Director of Membership for SME discusses diversity, equity, and inclusion within manufacturing. She explains the positive shifts related to DE&I, why it’s important for manufacturers, and what implementation strategies companies should consider for achieving success.

What are industry experts saying about DE&I within manufacturing?

Brinda Murty

Addressing Manufacturing’s Diversity Problem

By Brinda Murty - Transformation Services Leader, Hi-Tech, Manufacturing & Services Vertical, Genpact

Montez King

How to Include More People of Color in Management

By Linda S. Wallace - Contributing Editor, Smart Manufacturing

Diversity, Equality & Inclusion

DE&I Strategy Targets Scholarships and SME PRIME

By Rob Luce – Vice President, SME Education Foundation

A Statement from SME CEO Bob Willig

"I believe that manufacturing is at its best when we hear voices and receive contributions of all community members.”

Spotlighting Organizations Advancing DE&I in Manufacturing

Female Chef

National Association of Black Food Manufacturers

The NABFM exists to support and promote the collective interests of African American food and beverage manufacturers, farmers, and industry professionals, as well as those in supportive industries. The vision is to provide meaningful and measurable access to information, resources, and opportunities for underrepresented industry professionals.

National Society of Black Engineers children

The National Society of Black Engineers

The NSBE is one of the largest student-governed organizations based in the United States. Founded in 1975, the NSBE supports and promotes the aspirations of collegiate and pre-collegiate students and technical professionals in engineering and technology. NSBE is committed to building and maintaining a vibrant STEM pipeline.

Frank W. Ervin III Elected Board President of the SME Education Foundation

The SME Education Foundation, the philanthropic arm of SME, announced Frank W. Ervin III was elected as its 2023 board of directors’ president at its recent SME Fall Gala, with all officers and directors taking office on Jan. 1.