THE POWER OF MANUFACTURING BEGINS WITH YOU .
Manufacturing is evolving, be part of the transformation.
A MESSAGE FROM SME LEADERSHIP
Manufacturing thrives when professionals connect, share knowledge and grow together. Throughout my career, I have seen how being part of a strong professional community can open doors, spark innovation and create lasting impact. SME is that community.
SME Membership is more than access to resources and exposure to advanced technology — it’s an opportunity to engage, lead and shape the future of manufacturing. Whether through local chapters, mentorship or industry events, the connections you build here can accelerate your career and expand your influence.
Members are encouraged to take full advantage of what SME offers — from manufacturing publications, data and insights to personalized support through our membership concierge, which helps you navigate SME resources and opportunities. Be active, stay curious and get involved. Your voice, expertise and participation strengthen both your career and the manufacturing industry as a whole.
Let’s move manufacturing forward — together.
Sheronda L. Carr Vice President, Membership SME
THE VALUE OF MEMBERSHIP
You deserve a community that supports your growth in the manufacturing industry, challenges you to innovate and provides the tools to help you thrive. SME Membership is more than just a network — it’s an experience designed for you. Whether you’re launching your career, looking to expand your expertise or leading the future of manufacturing, SME connects you with passionate professionals who share your drive. With access to industry insights, technology, career development resources and meaningful collaborations, you’ll have everything you need to succeed at every stage of your journey.
SME MEMBERSHIP BY THE NUMBERS
15K+ MEMBERS
ACROSS MORE THAN 10 COUNTRIES
LOCAL CHAPTERS
LARGEST MEMBERSHIP PRESENCE CALIFORNIA, MICHIGAN AND TEXAS of members in machinery, metal and technical services 50% of members in manufacturing engineering and production roles 20% of emerging professionals are women 17 %
1. Additive Manufacturing
2. Robotics
3. Automation
TOP AREAS OF INTEREST: FOUR
4. Lean Six Sigma
20+
CORPORATE MEMBERS
30+
INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERS
PARTNERSHIPS WITH
MAJOR MANUFACTURING ORGANIZATIONS INCLUDING:
SME PRODUCES 10+ MANUFACTURING EVENTS
EXPO ACCESS FOR MEMBERS
SME MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
As an SME Member, you gain access to a suite of exclusive benefits designed to enhance your professional growth, industry connections contribute to a more skilled and resilient workforce.
PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
• Virtual Manufacturing, Advanced Technology, and Industry-Focused Programs: Free, timely learning sessions throughout the year, plus unlimited access to recordings.
• Career Resource Center: Job search tools, resume reviews and access to postings before non-members.
• SME Media Publications: Complimentary subscriptions to flagship publications, with additional discounted options.
NETWORKING AND COMMUNITY
• Chapter Network: Connect locally to expand your network, collaborate and explore leadership opportunities.
• Volunteer and Leadership Opportunities: Join committees, speak at events and step into leadership roles.
• Research Support: Personalized help with premier industry databases (valued at $22,000).
• Peer-Reviewed Journals: Free access to top journals (valued up to $4,000), including Journal of Manufacturing Systems, Journal of Manufacturing Processes and Manufacturing Letters.
• Member Newsletters: Four exclusive newsletters with manufacturing trends and SME updates.
• Members-Only Online Community: Engage with a global network of manufacturing professionals.
• SME Bright Minds Student Mentorship Program: Guide students and scholarship recipients entering the field.
THE BENEFITS OF SME
“SME has been instrumental in my professional development. The knowledge, skills and connections I’ve gained have transformed my career and opened doors I never thought possible. I encourage you to embrace the opportunities SME offers and take charge of your career growth.”
Steve Marth, CMfgE, LBC
Production Engineer
Toyota Racing Development
“If you’re considering joining SME, I highly recommend taking part in local or university chapter activities. It’s a great way to build your network and gain hands-on experience.”
”SME Daily Executive Briefing has become a staple in my career. It provides an accurate pulse on the industry, economy and trends — both nationally and globally — helping me diversify my business and career.”
Ryan Mulcahy, CMfgT, CAM-T Materials and Process Engineer Blue Origin
“SME has been a game-changer, providing the tools and connections necessary to stay ahead in the competitive world of manufacturing.”
Reymundo Ortega Senior Chief Engineer
ONEngineering
“As a student, I appreciate being part of a community of experienced engineers who mentor and guide me. SME has helped me feel more confident in my career path.”
Nelida Jimenez Student, University of Texas at Arlington
Sidney Barnes
Aerospace Maintenance Technician
“The SME Bright Minds scholarship allows me to pursue my education without adding a financial burden on my parents. Through the Bright Minds Student Mentorship Program, I’ve connected with manufacturing professionals, learned about the industry and grown my professional skills.”
Hailey Kressin Student
“If you’re in manufacturing and fabrication, SME is your toolbox. Take advantage of SME certifications to set yourself apart. Not engaging with SME is like driving at night without your headlights.”
Clint Lancaster Senior Manufacturing Engineer Smith Detection
Colorado School of Mines
SME CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP
SME Corporate Membership helps companies attract talent, retain employees and engage with the manufacturing community.
• Increase Visibility: Build connections and showcase expertise through SME’s events, industry forums and speaking opportunities.
• Strengthen Career Pathways: Support employee growth with structured career planning, professional development and mentorship programs.
• Access and Upskill Top Talent: Connect with emerging professionals and provide certifications in key manufacturing areas.
• Enjoy Exclusive Benefits: Receive five individual memberships, 85% off additional memberships, access to SME’s Institutional Member Directory and invitations to exclusive career fairs.
• Customizable Packages: For the greatest value, take advantage of customized corporate membership packages tailored to your company’s unique needs.
SME INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIP
SME Institutional Membership connects educational institutions with industry leaders and resources to support students and faculty.
• Visibility and Networking: List your institution in the SME Member Directory for industry connections and student opportunities.
• Exclusive Resources: Access Manufacturing Engineering and Smart Manufacturing magazines, as well as $22,000 worth of research databases.
• Professional Growth and Academic Engagement: Participate in SME’s technical communities, blogs and webinars while gaining access to networking events and research support for students and faculty.
• Affordable Membership $999/year includes five faculty or staff memberships; additional memberships are $20 each.
SME MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
SME has a membership that fits where you are in your career journey. To learn more about membership levels, scan the code.
PROFESSIONAL
$138/YEAR
EMERGING PROFESSIONAL
POST-SECONDARY STUDENT
$45/YEAR
$20/YEAR
Assists industry pros seeking to connect, learn and lead in manufacturing.
Supports young professionals starting or advancing their manufacturing careers.
Helps students in manufacturing-related programs gain a career edge.
HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATORS AND STUDENTS FREE
INSTITUTIONAL GROUP
CORPORATE
Provides educators and students free resources on manufacturing career pathways.
$999/YEAR (5 free memberships + $20 per additional) Equips colleges and universities with SME resources.
VARIES (packages include 5 free memberships + $20 per additional)
Provides discounted access to employees of SME corporate partners.
