NCNGM at the Next Gen Leadership (NGL) Summit

On Monday, October 6th, Karen Wosczyna Birch, Principal Investigator and Director of the National Science Foundation-funded National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing, took part in the US Center for Advanced Manufacturing's Next Generation Leadership Summit. This was supported by Infosys and Agora Leadership (Stephanie Wright). The panel that Dr. Wosczyna-Birch participated in was titled "The Value of Emerging Talent & Ecosystem Investment." The session was facilitated by Beth Hammond, who serves as the Managing Director of the Center for Ethical and Socially Responsible Leadership at Michigan State University.

With Beth Hammond's extensive background in leadership development, ethical business practices, and social responsibility, she set the stage for an enlightening dialogue. Hammond's impressive career spans over several years, during which she has cultivated a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances involved in ethical leadership. Her academic credentials, combined with practical experience in various sectors, uniquely position her to address the challenges faced by leaders in today's corporate environment. In her role, Hammond not only guided the discussion but also ensured that the insights shared were firmly grounded in the principles of ethical leadership. She emphasized the necessity of integrating ethical considerations into decision-making processes, especially in the context of globalization and technological advancements that continuously reshape the business landscape. Hammond highlighted the growing importance of social responsibility in business today. She discussed how companies that prioritize ethical practices and social accountability are more likely to build trust and loyalty among consumers, ultimately leading to long-term success. By showcasing real-world examples of organizations that have successfully implemented ethical leadership strategies, she illustrated the tangible benefits of such an approach. Beth Hammond's facilitation of the session was not merely about sharing knowledge; it was about inspiring a movement towards more ethical and socially responsible leadership.

Emerging talent refers to the fresh ideas, perspectives, and skills that new entrants bring to the workforce, which are essential for driving progress and adaptation in a rapidly changing global landscape. During the panel, Dr. Wosczyna-Birch and her fellow panelists provided valuable insights that not only highlighted the importance of nurturing emerging talent but also emphasized the responsibility of current leaders to create an environment conducive to growth and ethical leadership. They discussed how organizations must prioritize mentorship programs, internships, and training initiatives that empower young professionals to develop their skills and navigate the complexities of their respective fields. Additionally, the panelists explored the concept of ecosystem investment, which involves creating a supportive network of resources, partnerships, and opportunities that enable emerging talent to thrive. This investment can take many forms, including funding for startups, collaboration with educational institutions, and fostering connections between established companies and new innovators. By building a strong ecosystem, organizations can facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration, which are crucial for sparking creativity and driving technological advancements. The discussion also delved into the challenges that emerging talent often faces, such as limited access to funding, mentorship, and professional networks. Dr. Wosczyna-Birch and her colleagues emphasized the importance of addressing these barriers to ensure that diverse voices and perspectives can contribute to the growth of industries. They argued that a commitment to inclusivity not only benefits the individuals involved but also enriches the entire industry by bringing forth a wider range of ideas and solutions. By prioritizing integrity and transparency, leaders can inspire the next generation to uphold similar values, fostering a more responsible and sustainable approach to business and innovation.