The Future of Manufacturing: Careers, Collaboration, and Global Growth

Live Workshop with Sara Johnson
The Future of Manufacturing: Careers, Collaboration, and Global Growth 🇫🇷🇺🇸

A powerful and often overlooked industry, manufacturing is undergoing a major transformation — driven by innovation, technology, and global collaboration. This session will give you a fresh perspective on its impact, opportunities, and future.

Presentation Overview

The New Era of Manufacturing
• Overview of modern manufacturing
• How innovation, technology, and global trade are transforming the industry
• Why manufacturing is critical to economic growth and workforce development

Career Opportunities
Manufacturing offers diverse, high-growth career paths, including:
• Engineering, operations & production
• Supply chain & logistics
• Robotics, automation & AI
• Business roles (marketing, HR, finance)
• Workforce demand, talent shortages, and career advancement opportunities
• The role of women and diverse talent in shaping the future workforce

Partnering with Manufacturers
Collaboration is key to innovation and economic development:
• Supplier relationships & business partnerships
• Technology and innovation collaborations
• Workforce development & academic partnerships
• Real-world examples and benefits of strong ecosystems

International Opportunities
Manufacturing is a global industry:
• Global supply chains and trade relationships
• Cross-border partnerships and exporting opportunities
• Collaboration with international organizations
• Career opportunities on a global scale

The Future of Manufacturing
• Key trends: automation, AI, sustainability
• The importance of global collaboration
• How partnerships and talent will shape the next decade

Closing & Takeaways
• Engage with manufacturing organizations
• Foster collaboration across industries and borders
• Explore new career and partnership opportunities

About Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in business
development, events, and strategic marketing. With a career spanning more than a decade,
she has worked across a variety of sectors—including manufacturing, technology,

government, nonprofit, and fashion/textiles—building high-impact relationships with C-
level executives and industry stakeholders.

Sarah currently serves as Strategy & Growth Liaison at Druven Advocacy, a stakeholder
advocacy consulting firm that influences the people who matter most to organizations
through Public Relations, Public Affairs, Issue Advocacy, Stakeholder Engagement, and
Legal Advisory—bringing clients’ visions to life with meaningful impact. In this role, she
focuses on strategic growth, partnership development, and elevating client visibility within
complex business and regulatory environments.
She also serves as Chair of the Women in Manufacturing (WiM) California Chapter,
where she leads initiatives to elevate and empower women in the manufacturing sector.
Her work centers on advancing the industry through strategic partnerships, high-value
programming, and advocacy efforts that strengthen California’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Sarah began her career in mobile marketing and technology, helping businesses grow
through innovative digital solutions. This foundation led to key roles with organizations
such as the California Fashion Association, California Manufacturers & Technology
Association, and the Association of Washington Business, where she worked closely with
companies across California and Washington. Through these experiences, she developed a
deep passion for manufacturing—drawn to its innovation, resilience, and impact on local
communities. She continues to champion the sector, dedicating her efforts to driving
growth, fostering meaningful connections, and supporting manufacturers at every level.
Throughout her career, Sarah has cultivated a strong understanding of the political and
regulatory challenges businesses face. She remains committed to helping organizations
navigate complex environments through connection, education, and strategic policy
engagement.
Sarah’s career is defined by her ability to identify opportunities, create impactful programs,
and build meaningful relationships—especially where business, advocacy, and purpose
intersect.

Registration required