Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Award – Large Tier
Amsted Automotive
With deep roots in Michigan, a far-reaching impact on the industry and a spirit of innova-tion and community stewardship, Amsted Automotive has earned the John G. Thodis Mich-igan Manufacturer of the Year Award – Large Tier honor.
Read Amsted’s story to learn more or watch the video at right.
Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Award – Small Tier
Observable Space
A passion for math, physics and exploration of the universe was the foundation for what has become a global commercial space company. Founded in 2006 as PlaneWave Instruments, Observable Space manufactures turn-key optical space systems, ground stations, enclosures, mounts, motors and gimbals for more than 1,000 customers.
Watch for Observable Space’s story in 2026.
Coolest Thing Made in Michigan
PF1000 Prime Focus System, Observable Space
Fully designed and built in Michigan, the PF1000 System is the world’s first tactically deployable, wide field space observation platform.
Watch for the PF1000 Prime Focus System’s story in 2026.
Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement
William H. Dobbins • Caster Concepts
For his journey from physician to manufacturing titan, coupled with his unwavering com-mitment to the Albion community, reflect a lifetime of personal and professional success, William H. Dobbins is the 2025 Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.
Read Bill’s story to learn more or watch the video at right.
Manufacturing Innovation Excellence
Elite Mold and Engineering
Elite Mold and Engineering pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in moldmaking, combining innovation, craftsmanship and technology to drive the future of U.S. manufacturing.
Watch for Elite’s story in 2026.
Manufacturing Woman of the Year
Lisa Renee Conn • Llink Technologies
Lisa Renee Conn is recognized as a 2025 Manufacturing Woman of the Year for her ability to leverage hands-on manufacturing experience and strategic vision to drive meaningful transformation for the industry and people who work in it.
Read Lisa’s story to learn more or watch the video at right.
Laurie Harbour • Wipfli
Laurie Harbour is recognized as a 2025 Manufacturing Women of the Year for her steadfast advocacy for women in manufacturing and tireless work for the viability of manufacturing businesses throughout Michigan.
Read Laurie’s story to learn more or watch the video at right.
Manufacturing Community Impact
Goodwill Integrated Solutions
Goodwill Integrated Solutions has transformed the manufacturing floor into a powerful platform for social impact, economic mobility and innovation in workplace inclusion — creating a ripple effect that leads to lasting outcomes in the community.
Watch for Goodwill’s story in 2026.
Manufacturing Talent Champion
Bekum America Apprenticeship Program
Bekum America is recognized as the 2025 Manufacturing Talent Champion for trailblazing manufacturing talent for decades, developing a strong workforce for their own success and the long-term strength of Michigan’s manufacturing industry.
Read Bekum’s story to learn more or watch the video at right.
Michigan Manufactured Export of the Year
One Way Clutch, Means Industries, an Amsted Automotive Company
The One-Way and Selectable One-Way Clutches, produced by Means Industries reduce mass, packaging and torque losses, improving fuel economy. They are suited for multi-ratio transmissions typically used for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, as well as for electrified propulsion systems for hybrid (HEV) and electric vehicles (EV).
.
Watch for the One Way Clutch’s story in 2026.
Manufacturing Sustainability powered by Consumers Energy
Hemlock Semiconductor LLC
Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC) has embedded sustainability into every facet of its operations, leveraging innovation, partnerships and process optimization to make lasting, regenerative impacts in the polysilicon industry.
Watch for HSC’s story in 2026.
Manufacturing Emerging Leader
Zackery Bishop • 4 Flutes Machining
Zackery Bishop is as a 2025 Manufacturing Emerging Leader for his leadership that in-spires, action that delivers and heart for service that uplifts others.
Read Zack’s story to learn more or watch the video at right.
Olivia Ostrander • Powell Fabrication & Manufacturing LLC
Olivia Ostrander’s commitment to the community, the viability of other manufacturing businesses and the education of future professionals earned her the 2025 Manufacturing Emerging Leader award.
Read Olivia’s story to learn more or watch the video at right.