Connections That Matter: NJMEP’s 5th Annual Women in Manufacturing Luncheon Brings Industry Together
More than 120 women representing New Jersey’s manufacturing community gathered at the Trenton Country Club on July 9 for NJMEP’s 5th Annual Women in Manufacturing Luncheon, a celebration of leadership, collaboration, and the growing influence of women across one of the state’s most important industries.
What began five years ago as an opportunity to bring women together has continued to grow into one of NJMEP’s signature annual events. This year’s luncheon once again created a space where manufacturing professionals could exchange ideas, build meaningful relationships, and celebrate the people helping shape the future of the industry.
A Growing Community of Leaders
Manufacturing continues to evolve, and so does the workforce helping shape its future.
The Women in Manufacturing Luncheon reflects that progress by bringing together professionals from every stage of their careers—from emerging leaders to seasoned executives—all united by a shared commitment to strengthening New Jersey manufacturing.
The afternoon opened with welcome remarks from Peter Connolly, CEO of NJMEP, followed by Stephanie Casano, Director of Business Growth & Innovation, and Laura Fisher, Director of Human Resources, who serve as Co-Chairs of NJMEP’s Women in Manufacturing Program. Together, they welcomed attendees by emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for women to connect, support one another, and continue advancing throughout the industry.
For Stephanie and Laura, the luncheon represents far more than an annual event. It’s what they proudly describe as a sisterhood; a growing network of women who celebrate one another’s achievements, share their experiences, and help open doors for future generations of manufacturing leaders.
In an industry historically dominated by men, the luncheon continues to recognize the remarkable contributions women make every day while providing a space where their accomplishments, leadership, and voices take center stage.
Stories That Inspire the Next Generation
The luncheon featured several distinguished speakers whose experiences reflected the strength and momentum of women across New Jersey manufacturing.
Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson spoke about the importance of supporting women in manufacturing and recognizing the vital role they play in driving New Jersey’s economy.
Attendees also heard from keynote speaker Kellie Doucette, Chief Operating Officer for the State of New Jersey, whose presentation focused on leadership, workforce development, and preparing today’s workforce for tomorrow’s manufacturing economy. Her interactive question-and-answer session encouraged meaningful dialogue and allowed attendees to engage directly on issues affecting both their organizations and the industry.
Adding another personal perspective was Cari August of Lightera, recipient of the 2025 Rising Star Award at ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day. Cari reflected on her own professional journey, sharing the challenges she faced while building her career in manufacturing and encouraging attendees to continue supporting one another as more women step into leadership roles throughout the industry.
Together, each speaker reinforced a common message: progress happens when opportunity, mentorship, and community come together.
Speed-Networking: Two Minutes That Sparked Lasting Connections
One of the afternoon’s most memorable moments came during NJMEP’s first-ever Speed Networking Session.
Designed to encourage meaningful interaction, attendees were paired with someone new every two minutes before rotating to another conversation. The format created an energetic atmosphere where introductions quickly turned into discussions about careers, leadership, business challenges, and opportunities across the manufacturing industry.
By the end of the session, every participant had the opportunity to meet and network with numerous manufacturing professionals from across New Jersey, many of whom they may never have crossed paths with otherwise.
The excitement throughout the room was on full display. Conversations continued long after the activity concluded, making the speed networking session one of the day’s biggest highlights and a powerful reminder that some of the strongest professional relationships begin with a simple introduction.
Building a Lasting Community
While the Women in Manufacturing Luncheon celebrates the accomplishments of women across the industry, its impact extends far beyond a single afternoon.
Each year, the event strengthens a growing network of professionals committed to supporting one another, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for future leaders. It serves as both a celebration of how far women in manufacturing have come and a reminder that continued progress depends on creating environments where every voice has the opportunity to be heard.
The success of this year’s luncheon reaffirmed what the NJMEP team have envisioned from the beginning: a sisterhood built on encouragement, shared experiences, and a collective commitment to strengthening manufacturing for everyone.
As that sisterhood continues to expand, so too do the opportunities for women across the industry. The relationships formed and experiences celebrated at this year’s luncheon will continue to inspire collaboration, helping ensure the future of manufacturing is shaped by a stronger, more connected community.