Ranae Stewart
MEP Executive Director
317-709-0723
Ranae is currently serving as the Purdue Manufacturing Extension Partnership’s Interim Executive Director who oversees the organization’s efforts to help manufacturers increase their competitiveness. This is done by implementing solutions such as continuous improvement principles, quality management systems, technology solutions, and workforce development. Ranae knows these initiatives are vital to Indiana’s economy, as the manufacturing industry accounts for nearly 30% of the state’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Ranae has been closely involved with the Center's workforce development initiatives. This includes the launch of the organization's Manufacturing Skills for Success program, which has trained over 1,500 individuals since 2018. Currently, Ranae focuses on engaging industry stakeholders, state and federal partners, and manufacturers to ensure that Purdue MEP is offering solutions for industry challenges.
Ranae is a graduate of NIST MEP Emerging Leaders, as well as the Opportunity Indianapolis program. She currently serves as a board member for the Indiana Small Business Development Corporation, Foundation for Manufacturing Excellence, and Children’s Cardiomyopathy Foundation. Ranae holds a Bachelor of Science in Management from Purdue University and is working toward completing her Master’s Degree in Public Administration through Purdue Global.
When Ranae is not touting the great work of Purdue MEP, she is likely spending time with her two teenage sons or running with her rescue dog.
