Leadership Institute for Women in STEM and Manufacturing (LIW) | Weatherhead School at Case Western Reserve University
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Leadership Institute for Women in STEM and Manufacturing (LIW)

Elevating Leaders. Advancing Industry.

In fields like manufacturing and STEM–where technical excellence is expected but leadership opportunities can be elusive–this program provides a critical next step for professionals committed to advancing women into senior leadership roles. While welcoming all participants, the program centers on the unique challenges, aspirations, and leadership advancement of women in traditionally male-dominated industries.

The Leadership Institute for Women in STEM and Manufacturing (LIW) is grounded in research-backed skills specifically geared to supporting women advance. This program equips participants with strategic insight, presence, and confidence, enabling them to lead effectively and navigate complex environments. Whether you're newly managing a team or preparing to step into a senior leadership role, LIW equips you to navigate complex environments, lead with authenticity, and accelerate your career with clarity and purpose.

What Makes LIW Unique

LIW is more than a leadership course–it's a launchpad for professionals ready to move from technical expert to trusted leader. The program is built on decades of research and executive education expertise from Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University.

  • Emotional Intelligence & Resonant Leadership – Learn how emotional awareness strengthens trust, communication, and collaboration.
  • Intentional Change and Vision–Driven Leadership – Use a proven framework to define your personal leadership vision and align it with your career.
  • Leadership Presence & Influence – Strengthen your voice as a leader, navigate power dynamics, and communicate with authority.
  • Team Dynamics & Inclusive Culture Building – Build high-functioning, inclusive teams that motivate others to contribute their best.
  • Strategic Thinking & Systems-Level Leadership – Transition from problem-solver to strategy-setter with an enterprise-wide perspective.

Executive Coaching: Accelerating Your Growth

A cornerstone of LIW is your relationship with a dedicated executive coach. You'll be matched with a Weatherhead Coach trained in emotional intelligence, behavioral change, and organizational leadership who guides your growth journey from start to finish.

  • Uncover blind spots and challenge limiting mindsets
  • Design a personalized path to senior leadership
  • Use real-time work challenges as fuel for growth
  • Identify the internal shifts needed to lead with authenticity and vision

Cohort Experience: Grow Together, Lead Together

LIW immerses you in a selective, intimate cohort of professionals reflecting today's diverse workforce. Your cohort becomes a safe space for courageous conversations, real-time feedback, and a community of practice that pushes you to grow and expand your perspective.

Blended Delivery for Impact and Efficiency

The program features a blended format–two virtual sessions and one immersive, in-person residency at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. This minimizes travel while maximizing connection, reflection, and experiential learning.

Who Should Attend

Designed for experienced professionals in STEM and manufacturing fields ready for senior leadership roles. Most participants have 5+ years of experience and are already managing teams, functions, or projects–but may not have had leadership development that prepares them with more executive-level skills.

  • A senior manager or director preparing for a higher executive role
  • A leader in a technical or operational function seeking broader influence
  • An expert ready to shift from individual contributor to enterprise-level leader

Program Investment

  • Early Bird Rate – Until Oct 31, 2025: $7,250
  • Standard Rate: $8,500
  • Women in Manufacturing Member Discount: $6,500 (must be an active member)
  • Discounted Rate: $8,000 – available to CWRU alumni, nonprofit leaders, and Weatherhead Corporate Subscribers
  • Group Rate: $6,750/person
    • Organizations sending 3 or more employees benefit from stronger leadership pipelines, improved retention of talent, and employees who return with new strategies, increased engagement, and a broader organizational mindset.

Investment Includes:

  • Two virtual live learning sessions and one immersive residency in Cleveland, OH
  • Three 1:1 coaching sessions with a Weatherhead Coach
  • ESCI 360° assessment
  • All learning materials, meals, and parking
  • Digital badge upon completion
  • Tuition deduction eligibility for Weatherhead degree programs

Apply Today

If you're ready to lead at the next level–and help shape the future of your field–join us for the Leadership Institute for Women in STEM and Manufacturing.

Apply Now

Or contact Missy Bleick at 216-368-2066 or email signatureprograms@case.edu to learn more.