The Manufacturing Institute announced that Jill Carraway, vice president of finance at Grady-White Boats, and Susan Bonivich, director of dealer development for Volvo Penta of the Americas, will receive 2021 STEP Ahead Awards recognizing outstanding women in manufacturing.

The STEP (science, technology, engineering and production) Ahead initiative recognizes women in manufacturing by highlighting their achievements, with a goal of narrowing the gender gap in that segment.

“Companies across the U.S. agree there is a talent shortage in manufacturing. Through the STEP Ahead Awards, we hope to take another step toward closing this gap by highlighting the stories of successful women in manufacturing and giving them a platform to encourage other women to join the industry and be role models for the next generation,” Manufacturing Institute executive director Carolyn Lee said in a statement.

“Jill is a mentor to many at Grady-White, including young women who are now leaders in the

company,” said Shelley Tubaugh, vice president of marketing. “She has mentored me and many others during her 35-year career here, providing valuable feedback and words of encouragement with great integrity.”

Tubaugh and Grady-White president Kris Carroll have received STEP Ahead Awards.

As director of dealer development, Bonivich promotes Volvo Penta’s easy-boating solutions to 600 dealers and oversees quarterly long-range forecasts.

“Not only is Susan known by most in the marine industry, but she’s also respected by them,” Jens Bering, Volvo Penta vice president of marine sales, said in a statement. “A strong dedication to customer focus and responsiveness to their concerns are cornerstones of her character.”

Volvo Penta said Bonivich and industry colleagues are launching an international initiative for women in boating later this year.

“I don’t want any women to feel they are alone in this industry,” Bonivich said. “As manufacturers, we want our industry to look more like the customers we are representing. I’m confident the tide is turning.”

The awards presentation is scheduled for Nov. 4 in Washington, D.C.