MMA Names Two Legislators of the Year for 2026

LANSING (May 15, 2026) — Manufacturers are powerful forces in communities across Michigan, making significant capital investments, providing high wage careers and accelerating the state’s economic engine.

The impact of the industry on Michigan’s economy is undeniable, so it is critical to our state’s future that policymakers are focused on making Michigan the prime location for manufacturing growth and investment.

The Michigan Manufacturers Association (MMA), the unifying champion of Michigan’s manufacturing industry, joined together with manufacturing leaders from across the state to recognize the 2026 MMA Legislators of the Year at the annual Legislative Day reception, held at MMA’s headquarters in Lansing on May 14, 2026.

MMA recognized two legislators with the Association’s highest policy honor in appreciation for outstanding leadership on behalf of Michigan manufacturers.

“These two legislators champion pro manufacturing policies and we appreciate their leadership in inspiring Michigan’s manufacturing business climate,” said Mike Johnston, MMA Executive Vice President of Government Affairs and Workforce Development. “State leaders who champion manufacturing understand that a thriving industry strengthens Michigan’s economy, supports local communities and drives innovation. Their leadership and commitment to pro-manufacturing policies ensure our industry has the momentum needed to grow and compete on a world stage.”

The 2026 Legislator of the Year Award recipients are:

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Senator John Damoose

This marks the fourth consecutive year MMA has recognized Senator John Damoose as an MMA Legislator of the Year—a distinction that reflects his extraordinary and consistent leadership on behalf of Michigan manufacturers. Whether the issue is economic development, regulatory policy, or workforce talent, Senator Damoose understands that manufacturers compete on a global stage—and that every law passed can influence the cost of making products in Michigan, which is why he has earned MMA’s recognition as a 2026 Legislator of the Year.

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Representative Nancy Jenkins‑Arno

As Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Development, Representative Nancy Jenkins- Arno fought to preserve the Going PRO Talent Fund last year and continues to work to restore and strengthen funding this year. Her leadership reflects a deep understanding of manufacturing’s workforce needs and a genuine commitment to Michigan’s economic future. Because of her unwavering support for manufacturing talent development, MMA is proud to recognize Representative Nancy Jenkins‑Arno as a 2026 MMA Legislator of the Year.

For more information or to schedule a call with MMA Executive Vice President of Government Affairs and Workforce Development Mike Johnston, contact MMA’s Delaney McKinley at 517-487-8530 or mckinley@mimfg.org.

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