USG Corp. announced Sarah Messa as a recipient of The Manufacturing Institute’s 2025 Women MAKE Award. Messa, plant manager at USG Detroit’s facility in River Rouge, was selected from thousands of nominees nationwide and recognized at a recent ceremony in Washington, D.C.  

As the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, the Manufacturing Institute honored Messa for her exemplary leadership, ongoing efforts to cultivate the next generation of female talent in manufacturing careers, and contributions to USG and her community. USG products are used to construct hospitals, schools, homes, offices, airports, and roads across North America.

"Sarah is an inspiring leader who fosters a culture of collaboration, excellence, and upskilling that brings out the best in our team," said Bill St. Leger, USG Vice President Manufacturing - Surfaces. “Her leadership and her unwavering commitment to safety will continue to have a lasting impact on our operations, our employees, and the broader community.”

Messa began her career with USG in 2002 as an electrician and ascended the ranks, affording her a unique understanding of manufacturing within a plant setting and across the entire supply chain. She now oversees a 100+ person team and manages the production of multiple products, including USG Durock® cement board. USG Detroit a is seven-time recipient of the Top Workplaces in Michigan Award, most recently in 2024.

Previously, Sarah served as production manager at USG’s Westlake, Ohio facility, one of the company’s largest producers of ceilings tiles.

Among her key achievements, Messa led the local implementation of Project Home, USG’s large-scale initiative to modernize its North American manufacturing locations. At the nearly century-old River Rouge facility, Project Home improved operational efficiency and workplace comfort. She has also strengthened the facility’s community engagement efforts, spearheading volunteer programs and philanthropic initiatives to build lasting connections with local organizations in River Rouge and the Downriver Community as well as in Macomb and Oakland Counties.

Women comprise nearly half of the U.S. workforce but account for less than one-third of manufacturing jobs. Increasing female representation in the industry is critical to closing this gap, and the Women MAKE Award honorees are leading the charge. The Women MAKE Awards Gala was held April 24 in Washington, D.C.

"I am deeply honored to be recognized with a 2025 Women MAKE Award, especially knowing my peers at USG had a hand in the nomination," Messa said. "This award is a testament to the incredible women in manufacturing who contribute to their workplaces, local economies, and communities. My hope is for the next generation of female manufacturing leaders to see the opportunities available to grow a fulfilling career in this dynamic industry."

Messa earned Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Electricity, and Mechatronics and Robotics degrees from Bowling Green State University, and resides near Toledo, Ohio.