April 22, 2025 by SME Communications A new generation of innovators is driving a powerful transformation in the manufacturing industry, one fueled by fresh ideas, cutting-edge technologies and an unwavering passion for progress. At the recent SME Membership webinar, Rising Stars in Manufacturing: A 30 Under 30 Conversation, young professionals shared their unique journeys, accomplishments and visions for the future of the industry. The event featured several of the 2024 SME 30 Under 30 honorees, each making a significant impact across various fields, from AI and automation to materials engineering and robotics. Their stories were not just inspiring, they revealed the exciting direction in which manufacturing is headed, propelled by collaboration, innovation and bold thinking. As manufacturing evolves, collaboration is becoming more than a best practice—it’s a necessity. “No one person has all the answers,” said Justin West, a member of the Advanced Machining and Machine Tool Research Group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. “By blending additive techniques with traditional machining, we’re tackling complex problems that no single discipline could solve alone.” This spirit of teamwork and integration resonates across the industry. The power of collaboration is especially evident among today’s emerging professionals, who recognize that solving modern challenges requires a cross-functional mindset. From materials science to artificial intelligence, they understand that bringing together diverse areas of expertise is essential for developing sustainable and forward-thinking solutions. April Tu, a researcher at GM R&D, identified adaptability as a critical factor in navigating the complexities of today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape. “AI is transforming simulation and modeling in ways we couldn’t have imagined a few years ago,” she explained. “AI adapts and fills in the gaps, helping us predict and respond to behaviors.” For her and many others, continuous learning is crucial to staying ahead of the curve. That commitment to growth through learning is how Iyanuoluwa Akojiyan, an advanced manufacturing engineer at ABB, stays ahead of the curve. “I subscribe to journals like SME and SAE, attend conferences like Automate and The Assembly Show, and take online courses such as digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0,” she said. “I also connect with senior colleagues for insights and use LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest manufacturing trends.” Behind the scenes of innovation and progress, mentorship plays a pivotal role. For Jackie Sharp,it has been a cornerstone of her professional journey. “It’s about building relationships with people who’ve already walked the path,” she said. “They provide guidance, support, and wisdom that helps you grow.” She credits much of her own success to mentorship—both giving and receiving, which has helped her strengthen not only her technical skills but also her leadership capabilities. For her, the exchange of knowledge is a two-way street, and that reciprocity is what drives continuous growth. For those considering a career in manufacturing, the SME 30 Under 30 honorees prove there has never been a more exciting time to get involved. Whether it's innovating sustainable materials for EV batteries, designing smarter systems, or leading teams through groundbreaking projects, these young professionals are making a difference. "No one has it all figured out. The key is to stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to dive into new areas," said Dr. Michael Gomez, Principal Engineer at MSC Industrial Supply. These innovators aren’t just preparing for the future, they’re actively building it. As they push boundaries and break molds, the manufacturing industry is evolving into something more collaborative, innovative and human-centered than ever before. If you or someone you know fits the mold of a rising star in manufacturing, nominate them for the SME 30 Under 30 honor today. The deadline to apply is April 25, 2025.
