Inspire Innovation. Elevate Leadership. Champion Women in Manufacturing.
As manufacturing continues to evolve through digital transformation, so does the role of women driving innovation across the industry. The Women of SMART Virtual Experience is designed to empower, celebrate, and equip women in smart manufacturing with the insights and strategies they need to lead with confidence and shape the future of the sector.
Join us for a dynamic half-day virtual event featuring inspiring keynote speakers, expert-led panels, and sessions focused on practical strategies for leadership and workplace success in advanced manufacturing.
Why Attend?
Celebrate Women Leading Innovation
Hear from trailblazing women who are driving change across smart manufacturing. Discover how they’ve overcome challenges, led innovation, and opened doors for others through real-world insights and practical strategies.
Gain Practical Tools to Lead and Inspire
With sessions focused on talent retention, leadership development, and cultivating strong workplace cultures, you’ll leave with actionable takeaways to support your growth and impact in the industry.
Connect with a Powerful Professional Network
Engage with peers from across the manufacturing sector during interactive Q&As and virtual networking opportunities—all from the convenience of your screen.
Agenda Highlights
Welcome Address
10:00 – 10:05 a.m. ET
Speaker: Sheronda L. Carr, Vice President, Membership, SME
Sheronda L. Carr will open the program by welcoming attendees and sharing SME’s vision for the future of women in smart manufacturing. She will also highlight SME’s broader mission to accelerate the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies and strengthen North America’s talent and capabilities.
Trailblazers in Smart Manufacturing: Women Leading Innovation
10:05 – 11:05 a.m. ET
Join a panel of influential women who are shaping the future of smart manufacturing. Learn from their personal journeys, challenges, and leadership insights.
Panelists Include:
• Jane Arnold, Chief Customer Officer, APERIO
• Carley Mollica, Ph.D., MRC Program Manager, Lockheed Martin
• Supriya Puragundla, Senior Solutions Architect, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
• Suzy Teele, Chief Strategy Officer, ARM Institute
• Facilitated by: Jennifer Coyne, Director of Programs, The Barnes Global Advisors
Learning Outcomes:
• Gain insights into the latest smart manufacturing innovations
• Understand the unique challenges and leadership lessons from women in the field
• Discover strategies to advance your career and impact
Break
11:10 – 11:15 a.m. ET
Retaining Top Talent & Cultivating a Culture of Gratitude in Manufacturing
11:15 AM – 12:20 p.m. ET
Speaker: Lisa Ryan, CSP
The manufacturing industry faces challenges in attracting and retaining talent. In this interactive workshop, Lisa Ryan will explore how leaders can create a workplace culture rooted in appreciation, purpose, and engagement.
Learning Outcomes:
• Explore the five key drivers of employee engagement in manufacturing
• Learn practical ways to foster a positive, productive culture
• Understand how gratitude impacts retention and leadership effectiveness
• Walk away with tools to create an environment where employees feel valued and connected
Your Registration Includes ($300+ Value)
• Access to all sessions, keynotes, and panel discussions ($150 value)
• Interactive Q&A and opportunities to connect with attendees post-event ($75 value)
• Post-event recordings and downloadable materials for continued learning ($100+ value)
Reserve your spot today and be part of a powerful event designed to inspire and empower women in smart manufacturing.
Questions? Contact us at membership@sme.org