Two SEL Leaders Honored by the Manufacturing Institute

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Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) is pleased to announce that two SEL employee owners, Factory Manager Taylor Howell and Purchasing Manager Angelica Salazar, have been recognized as 2026 STEP Ahead Award honorees. This national recognition celebrates people who demonstrate excellence and leadership in all levels of the manufacturing industry.

The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education partner of the National Association of Manufacturers, presents the STEP Ahead Awards annually to recognize individuals who individuals making a positive impact in the manufacturing industry. Honorees are selected for their achievements in innovation and leadership as well as for their efforts to support the next generation of manufacturers.

“The STEP Ahead Awards are truly a celebration of the outstanding character and contributions of so many members of the manufacturing workforce,” said Manufacturing Institute President Carolyn Lee. “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.”

Howell began her career at SEL as a human resources intern before transitioning into manufacturing leadership. She was promoted to factory manager of the SEL E.O. Schweitzer Manufacturing facility in Lake Zurich, Illinois, where she has led transformative improvements in output, efficiency and culture. Under her leadership, the factory increased capacity by 30% while reducing average lead times by 68%. She is deeply committed to developing others, promoting multiple team members into leadership roles and strengthening community partnerships through STEM education and outreach.

Salazar joined SEL as an intern in 2010 and now leads the purchasing teams for new product introduction and the U.S. panels supply chain. She played a key role in navigating global supply chain disruptions during and after the COVID‑19 pandemic, implementing long‑lead strategies, safety stock plans and visibility tools that helped keep SEL production lines running. Salazar also spearheaded a companywide initiative documenting supply chain data for more than 30,000 parts, enabling rapid response to recent global tariff changes. In addition to driving cross‑functional innovation, she actively mentors emerging professionals through the SEL Women in STEM program and volunteers in STEM and community service initiatives.

Howell and Salazar are among 145 honorees selected from more than 1,000 nominees who will be recognized by The Manufacturing Institute in Washington, D.C., in April.

“We are so proud to see the contributions of Taylor and Angelica recognized at the national level and grateful for the impact they make on our teams, customers and communities,” said Senior Vice President of Manufacturing Leith Sorenson. “Their hard work, leadership and dedication to serving others strengthen our manufacturing operations and inspire the people around them.”