Zimmer Biomet Engineer Honored with 2026 STEP Ahead Award
Kuhl selected among top 145 manufacturing leaders across the U.S.
Tonya Kuhl, Engineering Associate Director at Zimmer Biomet, has been recognized as a 2026 STEP Ahead Awards honoree.
The STEP Ahead Awards, presented by the Manufacturing Institute — the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers — honor outstanding women and allies in manufacturing who are driving impact from the shop floor to the C‑suite. These awards shine a spotlight on leaders whose expertise, innovation and commitment to others strengthen workplaces and communities. As manufacturers work to attract, retain and advance talent in a rapidly evolving industry, STEP Ahead plays a critical role in elevating role models and demonstrating what leadership in modern manufacturing looks like.
Speaking about Tonya’s inclusion on this distinguished list, her leader and award nominator, Derek Demory, Manufacturing Director at Zimmer Biomet, shared, “Tonya brings together nearly three decades of manufacturing experience with a leadership style that empowers people to grow and deliver their best work. Her innovative approach to problem solving, her commitment to developing talent and her ability to build strong, collaborative teams make her an invaluable part of our organization. She consistently drives results through technical excellence and continuous improvement, but her greatest impact is the culture she creates — one where people feel supported, challenged and inspired to advance. This STEP Ahead recognition reflects the meaningful difference she makes every day for her team, our operations and the future of manufacturing.”
“Being named a STEP Ahead honoree is an incredible privilege, but what means the most to me is the opportunity to inspire the next generation of engineers by providing intentional development, guided opportunities through mentorship and by maintaining a culture that builds confidence, sharpens technical skills and ignites continuous personal and professional growth,” said Tonya Kuhl. “Every day, I’m inspired by the teams I work with, the students stepping into this industry and the communities we serve. This recognition reinforces my commitment to helping others grow, innovate and find their own path to making an impact.”
Tonya’s Impact at Zimmer Biomet and Beyond
Tonya's contributions extend beyond her work at Zimmer Biomet where she has led high‑impact process improvements, launched new products and earned her Six Sigma Black Belt. As champion of the Engineering Internship Program, she has transformed it into a nationally recognized opportunity, expanding participation from 50 to more than 400 applicants and ensuring interns gain meaningful, real‑world experience. Her influence extends into the community through her work with the Regional Advanced Manufacturing Pathway (RAMP), the Indiana FAME program and local service initiatives, where she mentors students, supports emerging talent and gives back through volunteerism.
Tonya Kuhl will be honored at the annual STEP Ahead Awards Gala in Washington, D.C., on April 23, 2026.
