To close the gap between technical expertise and leadership effectiveness, SME is launching the Manufacturing Leadership Academy (MLA), a portfolio of leadership development programs focused initially on frontline manufacturing leaders.
“Frontline leaders are where strategy, technology and people come together, and their ability to lead effectively has a direct impact on productivity, workforce stability and a company’s ability to adapt and grow,” said Jeannine Kunz, executive director and CEO of SME.
Yet, many employees are not prepared to make the transition from strong individual technical contributor to leader without help. More than one-third of managers say they are insufficiently prepared for the people-management aspects of their roles, according to Deloitte’s 2025 Global Human Capital Trends survey.
“As manufacturers accelerate innovation, their ability to thrive depends on advancing technology and talent together,” said Kunz. “The Manufacturing Leadership Academy strengthens leaders who can guide teams through change, boost productivity and build a culture where people want to stay and grow.”
SME’s MLA offers a flexible suite of leadership development services for manufacturers of different sizes and needs:
· One-time Leadership Webinars: Quick-hit learning covering key leadership topics for manufacturing supervisors and emerging leaders
· Leadership Webinar Series: Focused six-session development series designed to build practical leadership skills over time
· Onsite Instructor Leadership Training: Leadership training delivered at a manufacturer’s facility, tailored to a company’s needs
· Custom Leadership Development Training: Programs designed around a manufacturer’s workforce and business priorities
· Manufacturing Leadership Accelerator: 10-month program, using the latest AI simulation technology, that prepares frontline supervisors to lead people, strengthen performance and navigate change. Enrollment opens in December, with its first cohort beginning spring 2027.
By investing in high performers who are ready to lead, manufacturers can build a stronger internal pipeline for supervisory roles and give valued employees a career pathway for growth.
“In our work with manufacturers, we see how significant the transition from technical expert to frontline leader can be,” said Matt Fieldman, Director, Strategic Projects and Innovation, SME. “Success is no longer just about what you can do yourself. It’s about how effectively you can communicate, coach, solve problems through others and lead a team.”
