Published 9/9/2024

IMTS Elevate: Women Make Manufacturing Move

Honoring women's contributions to manufacturing with networking events and speakers, fostering connections among accomplished women worldwide.

Workforce Development

Christina Fuges

Editorial Director, MoldMaking Technology

Dr. Sharon Cobb, Associate Program Manager for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) Program. Source: NASA

IMTS Elevate: Women Make Manufacturing Move celebrates the impactful contributions of women in the manufacturing industry. The event features two specialty programs designed to ignite careers and foster connections.

The Opening Night Women’s Reception on Monday from 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., powered by AMT – The Association for Manufacturing Technology, offers a unique opportunity for peers, visitors and exhibitors to connect and unlock the power of diversity from day one. “This reception sets the stage for a week of networking and learning from the women who make manufacturing move,” emphasizes Catherine Ross, AMT director of community engagement.

Moreover, the ELEVATE Breakfast keynote, “Women in Motion: Manufacturing a Path to the Moon,” on Wednesday at 7:30 a.m., provides strategic insights and actionable inspiration from Dr. Sharon Cobb.

As the associate program manager for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) Program, Cobb discusses how cutting-edge manufacturing techniques are revolutionizing rocket building and the vital role women play in NASA’s Artemis campaign. “With the help of female engineers, scientists and technicians, American workers are sending humanity to the moon and beyond,” Cobb says.

Cobb brings 34 years of management and technical expertise to her role at NASA. She began her career in 1986 as a senior research scientist and has held various leadership positions within NASA, including serving as a congressional fellow and managing the SLS Program Office. Her numerous awards include the NASA Exceptional Service Award and the Federal Women’s Program Outstanding Achievement Award.

The program celebrates women's impact in manufacturing through networking events and speakers, connecting accomplished women globally. "We want to help women seize opportunities and make their mark, and we hope this event has helped attendees do just that," Ross says.

IMTS Elevate: Women Make Manufacturing Move not only highlights the contributions of women in manufacturing but also inspires the next generation to continue forging a path to the future.