The EMERGING ELITE IN MANUFACTURING Awards recognizes West Virginia high school students who have excelled in career readiness fields, technical education, and STEM classes that focus on manufacturing careers. Each awardee demonstrates workforce-ready skills and communication skills critical to successful employee performance.

This award honors the memory of education and manufacturing champion Gary Clay, who helped establish the WVMA Educational Fund, Inc. and served as the organization's board chair. A champion for the region and state, Clay volunteered countless hours to his community and various causes, including the American Red Cross West Virginia Region, United Way of Randolph County, and Randolph County Development Authority. This award is a special designation of Explore the New Manufacturing's Emerging Elite in Manufacturing Award Program.

Working in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Education, the Explore the New Manufacturing Program, state manufacturers, and educators join forces throughout the year to strengthen manufacturing education programs and narrow the skills gap, guiding West Virginia’s youth into opportunities that will lead to long-term rewarding careers in the manufacturing industry. Today provides an opportunity to recognize the partners who are committed to helping students discover a host of exciting and rewarding careers within the Mountain State.