Shaping the Future of Manufacturing Leadership

More than half of privately-owned businesses expect to change ownership or leadership over the next decade. You could be the next manufacturing business leader.

 
At Manufacturing Works, we are committed to developing and diversifying the new generation of manufacturing leaders and owners.

2024 cohorts are currently all full. Applications for the first cohort of 2025 will open soon.


Manufacturing Works' Leadership Institute provides a high-level overview of essential knowledge and skills needed for acquiring or leading a manufacturing company. The 12-week program helps you explore your leadership strengths, gain confidence, and expand your network.

View Sample Learning Sessions 


Topics and Activities

  • Extensive interaction with subject matter experts on topics related to finance and accounting, risk and legal, and business operations
  • Personal reflection and self-discovery (e.g. What motivates you?)
  • AMA (Ask Me Anything) sessions with current business owners and leaders

Who Should Apply

  • A rising star employee at a manufacturing-related business who wants to develop their leadership skills
  • Aspiring owners of manufacturing or related companies
  • Current business owners and team members looking to grow through acquisition
  • Upcoming senior leaders and potential equity partners, such as Presidents and C-suite executives

We are dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion in manufacturing. Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.


Format and Schedule

  • 2-hour sessions, once per week for 12 weeks
  • Most sessions are in person with virtual options available 

Cost

$2,000 per person
Along with full and partial scholarships, we offer payment options to suit your needs. Please don't let cost be a factor. Apply today!

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Leadership Institute is made possible by generous funding from Cleveland Foundation and The George Gund Foundation.


Program Sponsor

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Leadership isn't just about having passion—it's a journey of self-discovery, learning collaboratively with peers, and honing your skills with expert guidance. Our participant-led Leadership Institute is designed to be a key for your leadership development, tailoring its approach to your individual growth path.

What the Manufacturing Works' Leadership Institute Offers

Leadership Institute teaches you how to think like a business owner. It helps you uncover and leverage your leadership strengths and carve out your future career trajectory.

We are now accepting applications for our next cohort and encourage you to apply today!

 

Some of Our Past Successful Participants Included

  • A senior team member strategizing acquisitions to scale their manufacturing business
  • A new owner in the manufacturing sector seeking foundational business ownership knowledge
  • A human resources professional in a manufacturing business encouraged by the general manager to grow their skill set
  • A co-owner gearing up for majority ownership
  • Entrepreneurs eager to integrate or acquire manufacturing operations
  • A next-generation member of a family business looking to secure the future of a century-old company 

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"The Leadership Institute at Manufacturing Works is exceptional at simplifying complexities of purchasing a business into manageable steps, guiding you through a thoughtful selection process tailored to your needs, and seamlessly integrating transitions while preserving your company's legacy all while connecting you with local entrepreneurs."

– Jackie Valek, Chief Operating Officer, Tesar Industrial Contractors  

 

Benefits of Participating

  • Enhance your authentic leadership capabilities.
  • Acquire high-level executive and operational skills transferable across industries.
  • Grow your professional network, becoming more diverse and extensive.
  • Elevate your marketability; add fresh talents and connections to your professional portfolio.

Step into a role that not only challenges but also changes the manufacturing industry. Join us at Manufacturing Works’ Leadership Institute and be at the forefront of the next wave of manufacturing leadership.



Application Process

  • Interested participants should complete the online application and submit a current resume.
  • Applications will be reviewed and then applicants will be notified either way.
  • Once selected, participants will be prompted to register and pay for the program.
  • Reach out to Brianna Schultz at 216.920.1967 for more detailed information.

SPACE IS LIMITED, APPLY TODAY!

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Help Your Business Thrive Now and Well Into the Future

Strategizing for business growth and successful transitions helps keep your business—and the Northeast Ohio manufacturing industry—healthy. Let us help you build the strategies that will set you up for success.

Join Manufacturing Works