(Southfield, Mich., September 17, 2025) – With more than 40 years of experience in manufacturing, Vincent Howell Sr., FSME, CMfgE, stepped into his role as President of SME Board of Directors earlier this year, bringing a strong commitment to advancing the organization’s mission. Howell’s leadership guides SME to achieve continued success in its mission of accelerating the adoption of manufacturing technologies and building North America’s talent capabilities through encouraging innovation and fostering collaboration across the manufacturing sector.

A member of SME since 1982, Howell has held key leadership positions with major industry players including Corning, Raytheon and Ford Aerospace. His contributions span process improvement, quality management and innovation, including authoring more than 50 manufacturing articles and conference presentations. He holds two patents for glass inspection systems and has earned several industry accolades throughout his career including being named an SME Fellow in 2013. The Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering honored Howell with its Industry Innovation Award in 2011 and Salve Regina University awarded him with its 2010 Distinguished Graduate Alumnus award.

“It’s an honor to be able to give back to the industry by leading the Board of Directors of SME, a respected organization with a long history of supporting and nurturing the manufacturing industry,” said Howell.

His leadership focuses on driving initiatives to address current challenges in manufacturing, including investing in workforce development to fill a growing gap in skilled manufacturing talent, encouraging adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies to improve productivity and supply chain resiliency.

“I’m excited to help move SME’s mission forward,” said Howell. “Manufacturing is at a pivotal moment, and I’m here to help SME strengthen our role in supporting the industry.”

“It’s an honor to have someone with the level of commitment and passion that Vincent has serving as SME president,” said Jeannine Kunz, SME executive director and CEO. “I greatly value the opportunity to collaborate with him and the entire Board of Directors as we drive forward manufacturing initiatives that bolster competitiveness, resilience, and national security.” 

Howell is a native of Shelby, N.C., and currently resides in Clemmons, N.C. He is a graduate of the North Carolina A&T State University Applied Engineering Technology program.

About SME:

Founded in 1932, SME is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the North American manufacturing industry. SME connects manufacturers, educators, students, and the broader community to foster innovation and strengthen the industry’s impact on economic growth. Through the acceleration of technology adoption and the development of talent, SME helps to drive competitiveness, national security, and sustainability within manufacturing. Learn more at SME.org.