GEM: Growth, Empowerment, and Mentorship for Women in Manufacturing
GEM is a dynamic initiative designed to support, connect, and uplift women in Idaho’s manufacturing sector. Created and led by the Idaho Manufacturing Alliance (IMA), GEM offers a vibrant community where women at all levels—from the production floor to the C-suite—can grow personally and professionally through shared experiences, strategic mentorship, and industry-specific empowerment.
Why GEM?
Women remain underrepresented in manufacturing, but that’s changing. GEM was launched to accelerate that change by creating space for:
Professional Development – Workshops, webinars, and resources tailored to leadership, communication, and technical skills specific to manufacturing environments.
Empowerment & Inspiration – Hear from trailblazing women in Idaho manufacturing who are breaking barriers and building legacies.
Mentorship & Peer Support – Join a supportive network of peers and mentors who understand your challenges and are committed to helping you succeed.
Community & Connection – Participate in GEM Circles and local events to foster authentic connections that extend beyond the workplace.
Visibility & Recognition – Celebrate women’s contributions to manufacturing and help shape the future of the industry in Idaho.
Whether you’re starting your career, managing teams, or leading a company, GEM is your space to be seen, heard, and supported.
Join GEM and be part of a movement that’s changing the face of manufacturing in Idaho—one woman at a time.
Manufacturing Makes a Difference
Workforce Representation: As of 2023, women constitute approximately 29% of the U.S. manufacturing workforce. (NAM)
Breaking Barriers: Going back ten years ago when IMA was founded, women represented only about 24% of Idaho’s manufacturing workforce. Today, that figure has risen to approximately 32%. This increase may seem incremental, but it translates to thousands more women in Idaho actively participating in a field traditionally, not pursued by women.
Leadership Roles: Women hold about 25% of management positions within the manufacturing sector.
- Contributions: The contributions of women leading manufacturing firms, innovating in engineering roles, and excelling in these highly-skilled occupations are not just significant—they are essential. Research shows that companies with more women in leadership roles see 34% higher returns on equity compared to their peers.
Earnings: On average, women in manufacturing earn 16% more than the national median annual income for women across all industries. (Census.gov U.S. Department of Commerce+2cardinalstaffing.com)
- Higher Performance: Companies have begun to realize that diverse teams drive innovation, improve problem-solving, and enhance productivity. Companies with more diverse workforces are 15% more likely to outperform their peers. Women bring new perspectives, foster collaboration, and drive our industry forward.
Mentoring Makes a Difference: Nearly 60% of women in manufacturing reported that mentorship programs (like apprenticeship) were crucial in their decision to pursue a career in this field.
Make It Yours
March 26, 2025 marked the beginning of GEM with the EmpowerHER luncheon – a platform for discussion, thought leadership, and connection. It was the “launching pad” for GEM, and the event quickly sold out.
We are still listening and learning from women in the industry, and we want to hear from you! Let us know what you would like to experience with GEM.