Marietta Lee named STEP Ahead Award Honoree

Marietta Lee, president and CEO of Westbrook-based The Lee Company, has been named a 2026 STEP Ahead Awards honoree. 

The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, presents the awards.

They recognize manufacturing leaders at all career stages and leadership levels who are strengthening the industry’s workforce and serving as role models for the next generation.

“Manufacturing’s future depends on leaders who develop talent, strengthen teams, and drive results by building strong workplace cultures,” said STEP Ahead national director Lexi Champion.

Lee is the third-generation owner of the family-owned business, which employs 1,500 people, making it the largest family‑owned advanced manufacturing business in the U.S.

‘Leading with Vulnerability’

STEP Ahead honored Lee for her role in growing the company and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Since Lee became CEO in 2023, the company has increased the number of women serving in leadership roles to its highest level to date.

She also established the Ladies of Lee, an internal group dedicated to advancing women’s professional development in operational, managerial, and leadership positions within both the company and the manufacturing industry.

The group promotes mentorship, workplace flexibility, and relationship-building beyond the workplace.

“I hope to inspire the next generation by leading with vulnerability,” Lee said.

‘Fitting Recognition’

Lee previously served as chair of CBIA’s board of directors, helping lead the expansion of the CBIA Foundation for Economic Growth & Opportunity and the launch of the CBIA Manufacturing Coalition.

“Marietta is one of Connecticut’s most respected business leaders,” said CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima. “Her passion and commitment to her company and community are truly inspiring.”

“This is fitting and well-deserved national recognition of an amazing leader.”

“Our industry is so fortunate to have so many inspiring leaders and mentors.”

Manufacturing Institute’s Carolyn Lee

Lee is one of 145 recipients of the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards.

The honorees include women and allies who are helping close the manufacturing talent gap through mentorship, sponsorship, and inclusive workplace cultures.

“Our industry is so fortunate to have so many inspiring leaders and mentors who are cultivating fulfilling workplace cultures that encourage people to join, stay, and grow our workforce,” said Manufacturing Institute president Carolyn Lee.

Elevating Leaders

The Manufacturing Institute projects that manufacturers will need to fill 3.8 million positions by 2033, with as many as half at risk of going unfilled without stronger pipelines for recruiting and retaining talent.

As manufacturers look to attract, retain, and advance talent, programs like STEP Ahead work elevate leaders and role models at all levels of the industry.

“Real innovation will only come from empowering our workforces and nurturing the next generation of leaders.”

Biogen’s Nicole Murphy

“With our industry facing a critical workforce challenge, real innovation will only come from empowering our workforces and nurturing the next generation of leaders,” said STEP Ahead Awards chair and Biogen executive vice president Nicole Murphy.

“I’m proud to see the next generation of female and ally leaders shaping the future of manufacturing and technology and inspiring others to see STEM careers as both meaningful and attainable,” added STEP Ahead Awards vice chair and AstraZeneca senior vice president Davni Bika.

STEP Ahead will honor this year’s award recipients at an April 23 gala in Washington, D.C.