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MiMfg Magazine
November 2019
possible when you chase after your dreams. To elevate
and recognize these accomplishments, MMA introduced
the MFG Woman of the Year Award in 2019.
Donna Russell-Kuhr understands better than most
the barriers that exist for young women and all young
people as they develop an interest in STEM careers —
she cares deeply about the future of all manufacturers
and sets a high bar as the Award’s inaugural recipient.
“I’m a manufacturer first — I just happen to be a
woman. I grew up in this business and I’m so proud
to be a second generation manufacturer and see my
kids become that third generation to enter the
industry,” said Russell-Kuhr. “Manufacturing is not
for the weak of hearts. It takes a lot of planning, great
people and tenacity. Manufacturing is the backbone
of this great state and I’m excited to see so many
companies here tonight investing in the future.”
Learn more about Michigan’s first-ever MFG
Woman of the Year on page 32.
Michigan’s Coolest Thing Unveiled
“Anyone who works in manufacturing knows that
it takes a strong team to achieve everything and it’s
my team that has achieved greatness,” said Sammut.
“They are always responsive to our customers. It
takes patience for a business to be successful and I
want to recognize my team for their hard work and
relentless effort.”
Read how Sammut took Firstronic to new heights
on page 28.
Before Jim Wolf arrived, the company that would
become Avalon & Tahoe was a rudderless business on
the brink. He turned around a reputation, exceeded
expectations and traversed some of the world’s most
treacherous waters all to give the stamp of approval
that, when you buy an Avalon & Tahoe boat, you are
buying quality.
Today, Avalon is the No. 1 employer in their area
and a brand synonymous with luxury and success.
“Growing up I wanted to work hard and be
successful — I’m the luckiest guy alive because I’m in
boating,” exclaimed Wolf. “Everyone on our team has
skin in the game and that makes it so easy to manage
a team when they are in it with you. We’re giving
back a lot, we’re a shining star, this is the American
dream and I’m living it.”
Learn what led Wolf to where he is today on page 30.
Starting a New Tradition
In manufacturing, there are incredible women in
positions of leadership who are examples of what is
Anticipation had built for several months and
culminated in the announcement, live on-stage, of
the 2019 “Coolest Thing Made in Michigan.”
Congratulations to the Custom Booster Cylinder
by Peninsular Cylinder Company.
“Thank you, everybody. We always knew what we
make is the coolest thing, but I never thought we’d
be up here doing this,” exclaimed a surprised Bud
Haver of Peninsular Cylinder Company as he took
the stage on behalf of his company. The Custom
Booster Cylinder is new technology developed between
FTI Machine Worx and Peninsular Cylinder, Co. to
ensure functionality in a unique application. A high-
pressure intensifier for accelerated product pressure
testing, this one-of-a-kind item was specifically made
to a client’s precise specifications.
“Everyone knows the tough things we’ve had to
go through in the state, the tough times we’ve had to
weather,” Haver continued. “At the end of the day, it’s
about innovation, picking yourself back up, providing
great jobs to people and helping them achieve great
success — so keep doing what you’re doing.”
Meet the manufacturer of the 2019 “Coolest
Thing Made in Michigan” in an upcoming spotlight
in MiMfg Magazine.
Honoring Three Lifetimes of Excellence
Leaders shape the world around them. They don’t
let obstacles block their way — they only push
forward more confident that they will succeed. They
don’t ask for accolades but deserve so many. MMA
was honored to end the evening ceremony with a
celebration of the lifetime achievements of three of
manufacturing’s most revered leaders — Tammy
Bernier, Mark Marcucci and Al Thieme.