LANSING – Manufacturers across Michigan will gather in Lansing on May 13 to honor the recipients of the 2014 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Award.
The Award, an annual honor since 1981, recognizes manufacturers for their dedication to community service and their role as a symbol of the positive work being done by the manufacturing industry. The 2014 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year award recipients are:
Large Tier Manufacturer of the Year: Jack Finlayson, president of Gerdau Special Steel North America (Jackson, Lansing and Monroe)
Small Tier Manufacturer of the Year: Patrick H. Curry, president of Fullerton Tool (Saginaw)
Special Achievement Award for Commitment and Innovation to Talent Development: Geoff O?Brien, president of Proper Group International Inc. (Warren)
Jack Finlayson is being recognized as the 2014 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Large Tier Award winner, presented to a company with 200 or more employees, for his drive and commitment to making a positive impact in his community. During his years running Gerdau Special Steel North America, Finlayson has played a critical role in positioning the company as a leader in Michigan. The city of Monroe has benefitted from the $155.6 million investment into Gerdau?s facility, spearheaded by Finlayson. The project has already helped grow Gerdau?s employment in Michigan by 12 percent with further increases expected. His long-term strategy for developing Michigan?s bright future is worthy of recognition.
Patrick Curry is being honored as the 2014 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Small Tier Award winner, awarded to a company with less than 200 employees, for his efforts in the revitalization of Saginaw and surrounding communities. Driven by four key values ? people, principles, passion and productivity ? Curry leads by example both at Fullerton Tool and in his partnerships with organizations throughout the Saginaw region. Curry is a strong advocate for creating a more competitive Michigan through regulatory reforms and career-focused training.
Geoff O?Brien is being awarded the 2014 John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Special Achievement Award for Commitment and Innovation to Talent Development. As president of Proper Group International Inc. in Warren, O?Brien?s time and focus has been on ensuring students have a pathway toward becoming the manufacturers of tomorrow. By collaborating with colleges, universities and veterans? programs, O?Brien has rolled up his sleeves to solve the talent crisis in eastern Michigan. Manufacturers across the state are proud to celebrate his hard work and continuing effort.
The John G. Thodis Michigan Manufacturer of the Year Award recipients will be honored at the 2014 CEO & Executive Forum on Tuesday, May 13, 2014. The event will be held at the University Club of Michigan State University in Lansing and will be attended by manufacturing executives and Michigan leaders. See the MMA website, www.mimfg.org, for registration information.
