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.
2025 Winners
The 2025 Award winners were honored in November at a well-attended ceremony.
John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year – Large Tier
- Amsted Automotive (Saginaw)
John G. Thodis Michigan
Manufacturer of the Year – Small Tier
- Observable Space (Adrian)
Coolest Thing Made in Michigan
- PF1000 Prime Focus System, Observable Space (Adrian)
Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement Award
- William H. Dobbins, Caster Concepts (Albion)
Manufacturing Innovation Excellence
- Elite Mold and Engineering (Shelby Township)
Manufacturing Talent Champion
- Bekum America Apprenticeship Program (Williamston)
Manufacturing Woman of the Year
- Laurie Harbour, Wipfli (Southfield)
- Lisa Renee Conn, Llink Technologies (Brown City)
Manufacturing Community Impact
- Goodwill Integrated Solutions (Dearborn)
Manufacturing Sustainability powered by Consumers Energy
- Hemlock Semiconductor LLC (Hemlock)
Michigan Manufactured
Export of the Year
- One Way Clutch, Means Industries, an Amsted Automotive Company (Saginaw)
Manufacturing Emerging Leader
- Olivia Ostrander, Powell Fabrication & Manufacturing
LLC (St. Louis)
- Zackery Bishop, 4 Flutes Machining (Vicksburg)
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