Econometric work at the Aspen Institute and elsewhere shows that a main barrier to a strong resurgence in the manufacturing sector is the need for more skilled workers. Women are increasingly outperforming men in acquiring advanced skills and college degrees, yet are vastly underrepresented in the manufacturing workforce. This growing sector would greatly benefit from a more diverse workforce that taps into this talent pool.

Providing incentives for women to enter the manufacturing sector requires vision and concerted effort. Young women need to be encouraged to enter the sector and acquire the skills needed to succeed. Manufacturers need to increase the ranks of women in leadership and mentoring roles, and provide a supportive environment for employees to integrate work and personal responsibilities. The panel discussion will explore these questions

Featured Guests include:

Karen A. Fletcher, Vice President, DuPont Engineering and Chief Engineer

Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Principal, Deloitte Consulting

Former Senator Blanche Lincoln, Founder and Principal, Lincoln Policy Group

Elizabeth Woo, Vice Presdient, Thermo Fisher Scientific Corporation

Session Moderator:  Theresa A. Maldonado, Director EEC Division, National Science Foundation