The 2026 Colorado Manufacturing Network Awards
Join the Colorado Manufacturing Network as we come together from across all four corners of the state to honor the trailblazers of Colorado’s manufacturing industry! This awards program celebrates excellence across various categories, recognizing the exceptional individuals and companies who are setting new standards in workforce development, Industry 4.0 innovation, leadership, and the advancement of women in manufacturing.
The 2026 Colorado Manufacturing Awards
Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 5:00PM – 8:00PM
Co-hosted by Manufacturer’s Edge and AC-REP with support from the Colorado Manufacturing Network partners, including the The Warehouse, World Trade Center Denver, the Economic Development Council of Colorado, and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.
The 2026 Colorado Manufacturing Network Awards
Manufacturing Workforce Innovator
This award can be given to a company or an individual who demonstrates a commitment to workforce development. This includes creating a culture that supports and values innovation in hiring, training, upskilling, reskilling, employee engagement, and retention. The nominee demonstrates a commitment to nurturing the workforce from within and providing opportunities for underserved communities through internships, apprenticeships, mentoring programs, and skills-based hiring practices.
Manufacturing Generational Excellence Award
This award will be given to a company that has been operational and successful for multiple decades and has become a pillar of its community. The company will have a rich history and tradition of working within its home community by hiring locally and supporting local manufacturing and other small businesses. Special consideration will be given to manufacturing companies established by a family member and passed down through multiple generations, with each generation occupying key roles throughout the organization.
Manufacturer Community Outreach Award
This award recognizes a manufacturing facility in Colorado demonstrating excellence in community outreach. It celebrates effective, innovative expansion programs or initiatives that have been established or are active for at least two years.
Manufacturing Woman of the Year
Developed and awarded by the Colorado Chapter of Women in Manufacturing (WiM), this award recognizes a woman who has made exceptional contributions throughout her career in the manufacturing industry. The award is given to a woman who has shown dedication to supporting, promoting, and inspiring other women in manufacturing.
Manufacturing Champion Award
This award recognizes an individual who is leading the industry forward through significant contributions to the manufacturing sector via strategic thinking and implementation of industry-wide plans, programs, or policies. A Manufacturing Champion does not have to be a manufacturer. Eligible candidates may include educators, legislators, and economic developers. The recipient will have shown tireless commitment to advancing the industry through actions, policies, advocacy, mentorship, and participation in industry-recognized organizations, events, and programs.
Emerging Manufacturer Award
Presented by Warehouse Business Accelerator, this award recognizes an individual or company that demonstrates innovation with new products, services, or business models. These manufacturers have shown exceptional market insight used to drive innovation, capture market share, and create value for customers. The award is intended to recognize entrepreneurial individuals or companies expanding their businesses into successful organizations through innovation while generating new employment opportunities.
Global Business Excellence Award
Presented by the World Trade Center Denver, this award celebrates exceptional businesses that excel in international markets through innovative strategies, operational excellence, and sustainable practices. It recognizes companies that significantly contribute to global commerce and demonstrate remarkable growth, adaptability, and leadership in their international operations while upholding ethical standards, cultural sensitivity, and corporate social responsibility.