Executive Edge is designed for CEOs, Presidents, and Owners of small to mid-size manufacturers. These roundtable discussions are designed to help leaders make better decisions, faster, by working through real challenges with peers and understanding the responsibility of leading a manufacturing business. Participants are leaders who value practical peer learning in a confidential environment, enjoy working on their business as much as in it, and can commit to at least 8 out of 10 professionally facilitated monthly sessions. They’re also seeking fresh perspectives and meaningful connections with manufacturing CEOs from across the country.
What You Gain from SME Executive Edge Each month, gain practical insight, candid peer perspective, and accountability that moves ideas into action - because you tested it with peers who’ve been there. A trusted peer circleExecutive Edge creates a confidential environment where leaders can speak candidly, share lessons learned, and pressure test decisions with CEOs from different regions and industries. All supported with an offline, private community group. Real feedback on real challenges Each month, one leader brings a structured CEO deep dive. One leader brings a live business issue to the group and receives focused, practical input grounded in experience rather than theory. Access to subject matter experts Guest experts join at the cohort’s request to address timely manufacturing topics. Their role is to add context, spark discussion, and support peer learning. Accountability that drives actionSessions close with clear commitments and follow ups, so insights translate into progress between meetings, not just good conversation in the moment.
What to Expect from Executive Edge Executive Edge brings together a curated group of non-competing manufacturing and industrial leaders for candid, peer-driven conversations that go beyond the day-to-day. Program Structure Format: Zoom Meetings with access to a Private Group Forum Cadence: Monthly Meetings (2 hours) Program Length: 10 Monthly Sessions Investment: $2,500 per Company Upcoming Cohort Application Window: March–April 2026 Session Runs: May 2026–February 2027 Cohort size is limited. Apply Now
Meet The Facilitator Matt FieldmanDirector, Strategic Programs & Innovation For nearly two decades, Matt has worked at the intersection of workforce development and manufacturing competitiveness. Most recently, as the Director of Strategic Programs and Innovation at Tooling U-SME, his work supports leadership and workforce initiatives for manufacturers across North America. Prior to that, he was Executive Director of America Works within the Manufacturing Extension Partnership at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, where he helped coordinate workforce strategies across all 50 states and Puerto Rico and built a national learning network for manufacturers and their partners. Earlier, Matt served as Vice President of External Affairs at MAGNET, launching workforce and innovation initiatives in partnership with government and philanthropy. Matt’s work also reflects a long-standing commitment to social innovation. He has helped build mission-driven organizations, including Rekindle and EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute, and is a fellow of the Aspen Institute. These experiences shape his facilitation style, which participants often describe as candid, respectful, and relentlessly practical. Connect with Matt
