From High Heels to Steel Toes: Women Redefining Manufacturing

Breaking Barriers in Manufacturing

For decades, manufacturing has been perceived as a male-dominated industry, with images of assembly lines, heavy machinery, and industrial plants largely excluding women. However, the narrative is rapidly changing. Women are stepping onto factory floors, leading innovation, and driving operational excellence. This transformation is not just about representation—it’s about the tangible impact women have on business performance, efficiency, and workplace culture.

The Business Case for Women in Manufacturing

Research shows that gender diversity in manufacturing enhances decision-making, innovation, and productivity. A 2022 McKinsey report found that companies with greater gender diversity in leadership outperform their less diverse counterparts by 21% in profitability. Additionally, a Deloitte study revealed that manufacturers with higher female participation experience improved collaboration, safety, and retention rates.

Despite these benefits, women make up only about 30% of the global manufacturing workforce, with even fewer in leadership positions. Addressing this gap is crucial for the industry's continued growth and sustainability.

Women Who Are Making a Difference

Several women have made a lasting impact on manufacturing:

Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, is driving the industry's shift toward electric vehicles and sustainability.
Rosalind Brewer, former COO of Starbucks and CEO of Walgreens, has championed operational excellence and supply chain improvements.
Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code, is paving the way for more women in STEM, shaping the future of manufacturing through technology and inclusivity.

Representation in Leadership: ASQ progress

Having served on the American Society for Quality (ASQ)'s Board, I take pride in the organization’s commitment to gender-balanced leadership, with 50% women representation on the board. Moreover, ASQ’s Past Chair and this year’s Chair are both women, exemplifying how inclusive leadership drives excellence and meaningful change in industries like manufacturing.

XcelliUm’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment

As a Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) signatory, XcelliUm is committed to fostering gender equality and creating opportunities for women in operational excellence and manufacturing. By advocating for inclusive leadership and cultural transformation, XcelliUm continues to drive initiatives that support women in manufacturing, ensuring equal access to opportunities for growth and impact. In fact, XcelliUm’s small team is entirely composed of women—a testament to our belief in empowering women at every level.

The Impact of Women on Business Improvement

Women bring unique perspectives and strengths that contribute to business success in various ways:

Lean & Operational Excellence

Women leaders have played a critical role in the implementation of Lean methodologies, continuous improvement initiatives, and workplace safety programs. Their leadership has been linked to increased operational efficiency, waste reduction, and higher safety compliance rates. Research shows that organizations with gender-diverse leadership teams are 21% more likely to outperform their peers in profitability (McKinsey, 2020). Additionally, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that companies with women in operational roles experience higher rates of process innovation and efficiency improvements.

Technology & Innovation

The rise of Industry 4.0 has seen female engineers and leaders driving digital transformation, robotics integration, and smart manufacturing solutions. Women in technology leadership positions contribute to more effective implementation of automation, artificial intelligence, and data-driven decision-making. A report by Deloitte (2022) found that technology firms with diverse leadership teams show 60% better innovation outcomes compared to those with less diversity. Furthermore, research from the World Economic Forum indicates that organizations prioritizing gender diversity in tech-related fields see a 25% increase in digital transformation success rates.

Workplace Culture & Employee Engagement

Women leaders are known for fostering inclusive and collaborative workplace cultures that contribute to higher employee satisfaction, retention, and productivity. Studies indicate that organizations with a higher percentage of women in leadership positions report a 34% higher return to shareholders (Peterson Institute for International Economics, 2016). Additionally, Gallup research suggests that gender-diverse teams achieve 22% higher employee engagement levels, leading to improved organizational performance and reduced turnover rates.

Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility

Women are at the forefront of sustainability initiatives, leading efforts in eco-friendly manufacturing, responsible sourcing, and carbon footprint reduction. According to a study by MSCI (2021), companies with strong female leadership are more likely to have comprehensive sustainability policies and meet ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) targets. The United Nations has also reported that gender-diverse leadership teams contribute to more effective corporate social responsibility strategies and long-term environmental impact reductions.

Women continue to play a transformative role in Lean implementation, technological innovation, workplace culture, and sustainability. Research consistently supports the positive impact of gender diversity on operational performance, strategic execution, and long-term business success. Organizations that embrace and empower women in leadership are better positioned for resilience, adaptability, and growth.

Overcoming Barriers & Encouraging More Women in Manufacturing

While progress is being made, challenges remain, including gender biases, limited mentorship opportunities, and work-life balance concerns. To attract and retain more women in manufacturing, companies must:

Develop inclusive hiring practices to ensure equal opportunities.
Provide mentorship and sponsorship programs to support career growth.
Offer flexible work policies to accommodate diverse needs.
Encourage STEM education for young girls, building a future pipeline of female engineers and leaders.

The transformation of manufacturing is incomplete without recognizing the vital role women play in shaping its future. By breaking stereotypes, fostering inclusive workplaces, and championing operational excellence, women are proving that the industry thrives when diverse perspectives and talents are embraced.

The shift from high heels to steel toes represents more than just a change in footwear—it symbolizes the growing influence of women in manufacturing and their undeniable contributions to business improvement. As industries continue to embrace diversity and inclusion, the future of manufacturing will be shaped by bold, innovative, and resilient women who challenge the status quo and drive excellence.

Nancy Nouaimeh

Culture Transformation and Organizational Excellence Expert

Shingo Alumni

Shingo Certified Facilitator

Nancy.nouaimeh@xcellium-consult.com