Denise Johnson, Caterpillar Group President of Resource Industries, was elected to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) board of directors for a two-year term, the organization announced Wednesday.

“As a champion for manufacturing from a company with an iconic board, Denise will be a valuable addition to the NAM Board of Directors,” NAM president and chief executive officer Jay Timmons said in a statement. “As a leader in her industry and her community, Denise has proven time and time again that she knows what is needed to advance a new era in modern manufacturing, setting the manufacturing agenda and driving policies that will grow the economy and create jobs.”

Johnson’s term begins in January 2017 and the organization said she will work to promote the organization’s “robust, pro-growth manufacturing policy agenda.” NAM is America’s foremost industrial trade organization representing manufacturers.

“I’m looking forward to working together with my fellow board members to amplify the voice of manufacturing in Washington D.C. and across the country,” said Johnson. “Enhanced trade opportunities, a modern and fair tax system, a comprehensive energy policy and smart regulations are critical to putting manufacturers in the United States in a position to create growth and jobs and allow us to compete effectively in the global marketplace.”

Following a career with General Motors, Johnson joined Caterpillar in 2011. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and dual master’s degrees in mechanical engineering and business administration from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Johnson was also among the first graduating class of NAM’s Executive Leadership Program.

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