As Women in Manufacturing (WiM) celebrates its 15th anniversary, we reflect on our remarkable journey and the milestones we have achieved. What started as a conference focused on collaboration and resource-sharing has grown into a vibrant trade association with over 32,000 members, including an expanding international presence. In 2024 alone, WiM’s membership grew from 25,000 to 30,000, underscoring the increasing need for community, support, and advocacy for women in industry.

While we have made significant strides in the past 15 years, there is still important work to be done. Women working in the manufacturing industry still face barriers that must be addressed, and WiM remains committed to tackling these challenges.

Our work is driven by a core belief: networking and knowledge-sharing are essential for success. In September 2024, our flagship national conference, the WiM SUMMIT, attracted nearly 2,400 participants from around the world. With the theme Champion For Success, the event included plant tours, educational sessions, and specialized discussions on the latest technological advancements.

We also produced our first-ever Men as Allies conference in February 2025. This event was designed for male leaders in manufacturing committed to fostering collaboration, inclusion and innovation in the industry. With expert-led discussions and real-world examples, attendees gained actionable strategies to support and champion women on their teams and in their facilities. The inaugural event welcomed 65 attendees, marking a strong start to ongoing conversations about creating a workplace culture that contributes to retention and a successful bottom line.

This year also marked a new chapter as we amplified our presence in public affairs, strengthening our position as a thought leader and advocate on fundamental issues impacting women and their families. Key areas of focus continue to include advocating for accessible and affordable childcare and enhancing workforce development initiatives that empower women to grow as leaders and build sustainable careers.

Additionally, we strengthened our international engagement. We expanded to 1,000 members abroad and hosted four more successful international events. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by women outside the U.S., we are committed to building a global network of support. 

As we approach the close of this fiscal year, WiM is excited to have kicked off its 15th anniversary in January 2025. This significant achievement will be celebrated in the upcoming year with dynamic events and initiatives that honor our community’s remarkable growth and reflect on the milestones we’ve reached together.

Looking ahead, WiM remains steadfast in its mission to support, promote, and inspire women in manufacturing. But we can’t do it alone. With the ongoing commitment of our members, industry partners, and allies, we will continue to drive meaningful change, expand opportunities, and shape a more inclusive and innovative manufacturing workforce for the next generation.