Business Operations

Is your company involved in a groundbreaking project using digital tech to elevate operations, boost performance or generally change the face of modern manufacturing? What about an inspirational coworker passionate about the manufacturing industry? If so, you’re in luck: Nominations for the 2026 Manufacturing Leadership Awards are now open through Jan. 16.

What’s going on: The honors—given by the Manufacturing Leadership Council, the NAM’s digital transformation arm—recognize the very best in digital manufacturing innovation at both the individual and company levels.

• This year, awards are given out in 11 categories. Nine are for projects and two are for individuals.
• In June, the MLC honored the 2025 award winners with its annual Marco Island, Florida, gala and ceremony.

But don’t take it from us … What are the characteristics of an MLC award winner? Merck Senior Vice President of Digital Manufacturing and Chief Digital and Technology Officer Besu Alemayehu —this year’s winner of the organization’s top individual honor, the Manufacturing Leader of the Year—sets an excellent example.

• Called a “visionary influence,” “master of collaboration” and “prominent role model to young professionals” by his colleagues in nominations for the awards, Alemayehu, who was recognized for his leadership in digital projects that have boosted business value and for his partnership with Merck leaders nationwide, is truly passionate about his work in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• He saw firsthand during his upbringing in Ethiopia “the challenges of a society lacking basic health care,” according to NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons, who introduced Alemayehu at the June gala.
• “When I joined Merck back in 2021, I was tasked with building a leadership team that combined the highest excellence and level of expertise in digital and manufacturing,” Alemayehu told the crowd during his award acceptance speech. “Together, we’re driving a digital transformation that enhances not only our operations, but also how we think about the operations, how we think about our daily work.”

Who can nominate: Anyone can submit a name or project for consideration.
 
Who (and what) they’re looking for: If you know of an outstanding manufacturing team member or initiative that utilizes digital technology, it’s likely there’s a fitting award category for nomination. See here for more information on each one and here for a complete list of rules.

Have questions? Email the MLC awards team.