AJ Jorgenson is the Vice President of Strategic Engagement at The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education partner of the National Association of Manufacturers. Ms. Jorgenson develops and executes all strategic operations for the Institute’s Diversity and Inclusion initiative, and the Institute’s longest running program, the STEP Women’s Initiative. She is helping to foster and promote an inclusive culture in manufacturing, supporting companies with their D&I efforts and amplifying best practices to multiply the impact and leading industry engagements to increase the number of women and underrepresented populations in manufacturing. Previously, Ms. Jorgenson oversaw national Manufacturing Day to 2,500 events nationwide, reaching 350,000 students, parents, and teachers and helped lead the Institute’s partnership with the U.S. military to assist veterans and transitioning military personnel prepare for and find jobs in manufacturing. As Communications Director, she also managed all aspects of the Institute’s communications strategy and execution, public relations and internal communications for the organization. Prior to joining the Institute, Ms. Jorgenson worked at the NAM as the Manager of Board and Strategic Initiatives, where she was responsible for developing engagement strategies for the Board of Directors. Prior to joining the NAM, Ms. Jorgenson served as the Executive Coordinator of Research and Development for Mars, Incorporated. Before Mars, she worked as a programs and marketing associate, specializing in government affairs and event planning.