PULLMAN, WA — Two employee owners at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories have been recognized with national honors for their leadership and contributions to the manufacturing industry.

Factory Manager Taylor Howell and Purchasing Manager Angelica Salazar were named 2026 STEP Ahead Award honorees by The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education partner of National Association of Manufacturers.

The annual STEP Ahead Awards recognize individuals across the manufacturing sector who demonstrate excellence in leadership, innovation, and workforce development. This year, 145 honorees were selected from more than 1,000 nominees nationwide and will be recognized during an event in Washington, D.C., in April.

Howell began her career at SEL as a human resources intern before moving into manufacturing leadership. She was later promoted to factory manager at the company’s E.O. Schweitzer Manufacturing facility in Lake Zurich, Illinois. According to the company, Howell has overseen major operational improvements at the facility, increasing production capacity by 30% while reducing average lead times by 68%. She has also worked to mentor employees and expand leadership opportunities while supporting STEM education and outreach in the community.

Salazar joined SEL as an intern in 2010 and now leads purchasing teams responsible for new product introduction and the U.S. panels supply chain. During global supply chain disruptions tied to the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped implement strategies including long-lead planning, safety stock programs and improved supply chain visibility to maintain production. She also led a company-wide effort documenting supply chain data for more than 30,000 parts, allowing faster response to recent global tariff changes.

In addition to her operational work, Salazar mentors emerging professionals through the company’s Women in STEM program and volunteers in community service and STEM initiatives.

Manufacturing Institute President Carolyn Lee said the awards recognize the character and contributions of leaders throughout the manufacturing workforce and the role they play in encouraging others to enter and grow within the industry.

SEL Senior Vice President of Manufacturing Leith Sorenson said the company is proud to see Howell and Salazar recognized at the national level for their leadership and impact on the organization.

The two SEL leaders will be honored alongside other recipients during the STEP Ahead Awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., in April.