Jeannine Kunz, CEO of SME brings over 25 years of experience at the intersection of technology and talent strengthening the manufacturing industry. Previously SME's Chief Workforce Development Officer, she led national initiatives to attract, develop and retain talent in collaboration with employers, educators and government. Kunz has played a key role in shaping industry strategies through the Smart Manufacturing Executive Council and the National Academies of Sciences Engineering and Medicine’s Committee on Smart Manufacturing. Recognizing the need for collaboration and innovation to address manufacturing’s challenges and opportunities, she has focused her career on building industry relationships and partnerships with like-minded organizations. A passionate advocate for manufacturing’s future Kunz actively participates in industry boards and committees driving change shaping policies and fostering innovation. Her work has earned her several industry accolades including the ARM Institute Champion Award and recognition as one of Crain’s Detroit Business Notable Women in Manufacturing.