SMArt:

Empowering the Next Generation of Manufacturing Leaders

SMArt, the Smaller Manufacturers Association’s Rising Talent program, is designed to help the next generation of manufacturing professionals grow, inspire and lead. Through skills training, network building, professional development and community impact initiatives, SMArt gives rising talent the opportunity to build strong industry relationships and shape the future of manufacturing.

Growth and Connection to Support Emerging Leaders

Building a skilled workforce is a challenge for any businesses, but one with unique considerations for small manufacturers. While smaller organizations compete with large names for talent with more limited resources, they also offer unique opportunities and a more personalized experience. As champions of the small manufacturing communnity, SMArt is our unique program designed specifically to help our member organizations meet their workforce goals.

 

Supported by the Smaller Manufacturers Association, SMArt offers low and often no-cost opportunities for rising talent across member companies to build and learn from a network of peers, chart their career path, and access training and resources.

 

SMArt celebrates our shared successes with our annual Cornhole Tournament, one of our best-attended annual events, working to ensure that everyone wins with SMArt.

About SMA

SMA is a trusted partner for the small manufacturing community, bringing together businesses and leaders to drive growth and strengthen our industry.

Contact Us
Contact the SMA Team
We welcome your inquires about the SMArt program or membership. Reach out today! (203) 575-0711  |  admin@sma-ct.com

Building Skills Beyond the Plant Floor

SMArt believes career growth extends beyond technical skills. Through engaging events and workshops our members gain valuable communication and presentation skills, learning how to enter a room with confidence, speak to customers and strengthening their professional soft skills.

“We focus on three areas with Rising Talent: networking, professional development, and community impact,” said Katie Barry, Quality Manager at Marion Manufacturing and co-chair of the SMArt planning committee. “I’m so amazed at the success we see with our SMArt initaitives, and proud we have created a unique way to engage entire manufacturing organizations with unique events for team members at different stages of their careers.”

Engaging Events That Make an Impact

From cornhole tournaments and trivia nights to Human Bingo at Fascia’s Chocolates, SMArt creates fun and meaningful ways for members to connect. Happy hours and special events often incorporate impact projects, like food drives supporting United Way, holiday toy drives, Earth Day cleanup efforts and more – giving members a chance to give back to the community while growing themselves professionally.

Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders

With support from SMA leadership and member companies, SMArt hosts professional development seminars such as “Networking 101” and personal planning sessions like “Obtaining Financial Freedom.” These events help rising talent gain the tools, knowledge and confidence needed to advance their careers and become strong leaders in the manufacturing industry.

Get Involved with SMArt

SMArt is open to rising talent from all SMA member companies. It’s a powerful way to support you workforce, and helps your team grow, improve and succeed.

For more information or to join the SMArt Rising Talent group, contact the SMA Administrator at 203.575.0711 or admin@sma-ct.com.

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