Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – The Manufacturing Leadership Council, the digital transformation division of the National Association of Manufacturers, today announced the finalists for the 2026 Manufacturing Leadership Awards, honoring world-class manufacturers and individual leaders for outstanding achievements in digital transformation. In addition, MLC unveiled the 2026 Partners in Collaborative Innovation, which recognizes technology and consulting organizations that play a vital role in advancing Manufacturing 4.0 throughout the industry.

The 2026 Manufacturing Leadership Awards finalists represent excellence across nine project categories and two individual categories, reflecting the breadth, depth and momentum of digital innovation underway throughout the manufacturing sector. A complete list of finalists is available here.

“In an era defined by rapid technological change and continued business uncertainty, manufacturers are demonstrating that digital transformation remains a powerful driver of resilience, competitiveness and long-term growth,” said David R. Brousell, founder, vice president and executive director of the Manufacturing Leadership Council. “The 2026 finalists showcase the ingenuity, leadership and strategic vision that are shaping the future of manufacturing, and we are proud to recognize their accomplishments.”

Category winners will be announced at the Manufacturing Leadership Awards Gala on June 24, 2026, at the Fairmont Princess in Scottsdale, Arizona. In addition to category winners, the gala will also recognize recipients of the Future of Manufacturing Award, Small/Medium Enterprise Manufacturer of the Year, Large Enterprise Manufacturer of the Year and Manufacturing Leader of the Year. The gala takes place at the conclusion of Rethink: Accelerating Digital Transformation in Manufacturing.

“The Manufacturing Leadership Awards continue to evolve alongside the industry, mirroring how manufacturers are applying advanced technologies to transform operations, culture and business models,” said Penelope Brown, senior content director at the Manufacturing Leadership Council and director of the awards program. “This year’s finalists reflect an exceptional level of strategic thinking and execution, underscoring how digital initiatives are delivering real, measurable impact across the manufacturing enterprise.”

In conjunction with the finalist announcement, MLC also named its 2026 Partners in Collaborative Innovation, honoring organizations that support manufacturers on their digital transformation journeys through thought leadership, technology, research and ecosystem-building. These partners play an essential role in fostering collaboration, accelerating innovation and strengthening the broader Manufacturing 4.0 community.

All finalists will be formally recognized on stage during the Manufacturing Leadership Awards Gala. Additional details about the awards program, the gala event and the complete list of finalists and Partners in Collaboration can be found here.