About the Manufacturing Excellence Awards
The annual Manufacturing Excellence Awards is a celebration of the remarkable individuals, groundbreaking products and innovative organizations that are shaping the future of our industry.
Established to recognize what makes Michigan manufacturing the best in the world, this one-of-a-kind awards program reflects the strength, ingenuity and resilience of a sector that touches every aspect of our economy and daily lives. The Manufacturing Excellence Awards are a powerful reminder of the passion, dedication and impact our community delivers every day.
MMA’s program features eleven distinct awards, including the popular Coolest Thing Made in Michigan — a people’s choice favorite. The excitement of the summer Nomination Period builds momentum through a series of fall announcements and two rounds of voting, all of which will culminate in a prestigious evening of recognition — an unforgettable celebration that honors the heart and soul of Michigan manufacturing.
After more than 120 years since our founding, MMA remains steadfast in its mission to serve as a unifying champion for Michigan manufacturers. As a nonprofit representing the most diverse manufacturing hub in the world, we continue to lead with integrity and purpose — through legislative advocacy, workforce development, education, cost-saving programs and opportunities to connect and grow.
2026 Winners
The 2026 Award winners were honored in November during an evening of celebration in Plymouth.
John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year – Large Tier
- Vantage Plastics (Standish)
John G. Thodis Michigan
Manufacturer of the Year – Small Tier
- Highland Engineering Inc. (Howell)
Coolest Thing Made in Michigan
- Pegasus® BTX Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer by Leco Corporation (St. Joseph)
Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement Award
- Paul Aultman, Vantage Plastics (Standish)
Manufacturing Innovation Excellence
- Swarm Defense Technologies (Auburn Hills)
Manufacturing Woman of the Year
- Suzanne Morrison, Hatch Stamping Company (Chelsea)
Manufacturing Community Impact
- Marathon Petroleum - Detroit Refinery (Detroit)
Manufacturing Sustainability powered by Consumers Energy
- Llink Technologies (Brown City)
Manufacturing Emerging Leader
- Clay Stephens, Synergy Molding Technologies LLC (Clinton Twp.)
Manufacturing Talent Champion
- Matt Carr, Storch Products Co Inc (Livonia)
Contact to Learn More
Delaney McKinley
Executive Vice President of Operations
Call 517-487-8530
E-mail mckinley@mimfg.org
Ashley Wakefield
Director of Membership, Marketing & Events
Call 517-487-8523
E-mail wakefield@mimfg.org