Sarah Shields

Sarah Shields is the Director of Engagement Programs at the Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education partner of the National Association of Manufacturers. Sarah serves as the day-to-day manager of the Women MAKE America Initiative and supports the development and execution of D&I workforce programs.

Prior to joining the institute, Sarah served as U.S. Travel Association’s director of industry communications, leading a team responsible for developing communication strategies and messaging to inform and engage the travel industry. She also managed the programming of National Travel and Tourism Week, America’s annual salute to the travel industry, consistently doubling industry engagement year-over-year.

Sarah has also worked for two public relations agencies, Ogilvy Washington and the District Communications Group, where she supported multi-faceted federal campaigns. Her previous clients include FEMA, the IRS, the VA and CDC.

Sarah holds a bachelor’s degree in History and East Asian Studies from the University of Delaware, as well as a proficiency certificate in Mandarin Chinese from Beijing Language and Culture University. She currently resides in Takoma Park, MD with her husband.