Mid-West Fastener Association | Spring 2025 Newsletter by Graphika Creative

NOTE FROM OUR PRESIDENT

to be partnering with Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) to help provide beds and bedding to children in need. Donations will be accepted at both the Screwed Up Open and our upcoming Nuts & Brews event, so let’s come together to make a difference— one swing and one blanket at a time.

Then, on July 30, we’re heading to Milwaukee for one of our favorite traditions:

members and families alike.

Looking even further ahead, now is the perfect time to start planning for FSTNR Week 2025. As our biggest event of the year, you’ll want to make sure your booth is secured and your plans are in place early. This year’s Fastener Week is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet—and we want to see you there, front and center.

What a Year It’s Been – And We’re Just Getting Started!

Can you believe we’re already into the second quarter of 2025? Time is flying, and the Mid-West Fastener Association is just getting warmed up. We’ve already had some incredible moments this year, and there’s so much more to look forward to with a packed schedule of events right around the corner.

First up, mark your calendars for May 22 and join us for Another Screwed Up Open – a day of golf, networking, and good vibes! This fun and relaxed outing is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow members, enjoy some fresh air, and warm up your swing ahead of our big August golf event. The day kicks off with a shotgun start at 11:00 a.m., and we promise plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and quality time with your fastener industry friends.

While you’re there, don’t forget to bring a twin-size comforter to donate! We’re proud

A Day at the Ballpark! Watch the Chicago Cubs take on the Brewers and soak in the summer sun with our MWFA community. The fun starts with some good old-fashioned tailgating, and continues inside the stadium in our semi-private seating area. Great baseball, great company, and unbeatable summer vibes—it’s a can’t-miss event for

We’re excited for all that’s ahead and can’t wait to see familiar and new faces at these upcoming events. Here’s to making the rest of 2025 unforgettable—together!

2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Jill Lewis - Integrated Packaging & Fastener

Vice President Bobby Wegner - Beacon Fasteners and Components

Treasurer George Hunt III - Brighton-Best International

Secretary Matt Delawder - SWD Inc.

Directors Jake Davis - BTM Manufacturing

Glen Brin - DarLoc Corporation

Cory Wing - Wing-Hamlin Co. Inc.

Sam Lang - Certified Fastener

Ignacy Paprocki - Blue Ribbon Fastener

Alternates Bob Baer - Abbott Interfast

David Gawlik - Stelfast, Inc.

Jeff Kempka - GF&D Systems

Executive Director Francesca Lewis

2025 MWFA PRESIDENT Jill Lewis

PACKAGING & FASTENER

DON’T MISS THESE GREAT EVENTS!

SCREWED UP OPEN AND NUTS & BREWS SOCIAL

Get ready for a fun day of golf and socializing! Join us on May 22nd, 2025 for the Screwed Up Open at White Pines Golf Club in Bensenville, IL. After the tournament, head over to Church Street Brewing Company for our Nuts and Brews Cocktail Hour.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just in it for a good time, this event is the perfect mix of friendly competition and post-game relaxation. Don’t miss out!

Date: May 22nd 2025

Time: 10am Registration Opens 11am Shotgun Start

Following the Screwed Up Open, the Nuts & Brews Cocktail Hour will take place at Church Street Brewing Company, We hope to see you there!

BREWERS vs. CHICAGO CUBS

Join the MWFA for an exciting summer outing as we head to the ballpark for the Brewers vs. Cubs game! Get ready to cheer on the Brewers, enjoy some cold brews, and soak in the electric atmosphere. It’s the perfect chance to connect with fellow MWFA members and make some unforgettable memories.

Date: July 30th

Time: 1pm

More details for all of our events can be found online at www.mwfa.net

FASTENER SHOW, TRAINING, NETWORKING AND RECREATIONALL IN ONE WEEK

MWFA is thrilled to announce FSTNR Week, taking place from August 24th to August 27th, 2025. This event continues to serve as a pivotal week for the fastener industry, fostering numerous opportunities for collaboration and growth.

This year, all events will be held at the prestigious Lincolnshire Marriott Resort in Lincolnshire, IL. This venue offers attendees the convenience of staying onsite for all events, reducing travel time and enhancing networking opportunities. Located just 18 miles from O’Hare International Airport, the resort boasts a range of amenities including multiple dining options, indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, spa, theater, and more.

The week will kick off on Sunday, August 24th, with MWFA once again partnering with Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) for a charitable event in the north parking lot of the Marriott Lincolnshire. SHP collaborates with groups and communities to build beds for children in need who lack their own.

On Monday, August 25th, plant tours across the Chicago area will provide attendees the chance to explore various companies and their operations. A detailed schedule for each company will be provided to assist in planning the day.

Any company is welcome to host a plant tour, but we encourage you to get in touch with us ASAP as allocation is filling up fast for what promises to be a great day of tours!

If you’d like to be on the plant tour schedule for August 25th, contact Francesca Lewis at mwfa@mwfa.net. You select the hours you’d like to allow industry friends to stop by. We will ask for registrations, but they are not required. Visitors must adhere to the published schedule.

The social festivities begin on Monday night (August 25th) with the MWFA Welcome Mixer. »»

FASTENER SHOW, TRAINING, NETWORKING AND RECREATION - ALL

IN ONE WEEK

On Tuesday morning, August 26th, The MWFA is proud to annouce a new event to the calendar - an economic update presentation hosted by Industrial Fasteners Institute and the Chicago Federal Reserve. Visit www.mwfa.net for more information and to register for this not-to-be-missed event.

In the afternoon, the 43rd MWFA Fastener Show will take place in a tabletop format, facilitating easy and cost-effective exhibits. Fastener suppliers are cordially invited to showcase their products and services at this one-day Tabletop Show, a highlight of FSTNR Week. This event provides suppliers from across the country with a prime opportunity to exhibit their offerings at the heart of the fastener industry. Attendees can capitalize on this platform to showcase their products, forge new supplier connections, reconnect with industry peers, and explore innovations and their applications. The show

will feature suppliers of fasteners, secondary services, heat treating, plating, and other relevant services.

Following the Tabletop Show, attendees can look forward to the Fastener Bash with an exciting superhero theme. Whether you’re a fan of Marvel, DC, or have your own favorite hero, come dressed in your best superhero gear for a chance to win prizes and enjoy a fun-filled evening of networking and entertainment. Capes, masks, and creative costumes are encouraged—this is your chance to let your inner hero shine!

On Wednesday, August 27th, the 72nd MWFA Golf Outing will take place at Crane’s Landing, nestled within the

Lincolnshire Marriott Resort. Distributors, manufacturers, suppliers, fastener industry services, and friends are invited to participate in this prestigious event, which promises breathtaking views of the Des Plaines River amidst 110 acres of preserved woodlands. With just over 6,300 yards of challenging terrain, Crane’s Landing Golf Club offers an unforgettable golfing experience. Register early to secure your spot, as participation is limited to ensure smooth play.

As part of FSTNR Week, the Fastener Training Institute will offer its Fastener Week program from August 27th to August 31st, providing participants with the opportunity to earn their Certified Fastener Specialist certificate through intensive education and plant tours.

Online registration is available at www.fastenertrainingevents.com/fastenertraining-chicago.htm.

FSTNR Week promises to be an enriching experience for all participants, offering valuable insights, networking opportunities, and fun!

THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 SCHOLARSHIP DONORS

The MWFA Scholarship Program has been phenomenally successful due to our many generous members and supporters in the fastener industry. Several companies have committed to a named scholarship. A donation of $1,000 or more is automatically set up as a company named scholarship. Those indicated in bold below had named scholarships awarded in last year.

Anyone wishing to donate to this year’s scholarship fund may do so at any time by sending in a check marked scholarship fund or going online (click QR code) and donating.

» 3Q Inc.

» AFI Industries Inc.

» Abbott-Interfast

» All American Systems

» Blue Ribbon Fastener

» Brico Industries, Inc.

» Brighton-Best International

» Brynolf Manufacturing

» BTM Manufacturing

» Certified Products

» Chicago Hardware & Fixture Co.

» Clarcorp Industrial Sales

» Component Technologies International

» Continental-Aero (A Tramec Company)

» Crescent Manufacturing

» Crystal Engineering

» Crown Screw & Bolt Corporation

» DarLoc Corporation

» Darling Bolt Co.

» Eurolink Fastener Supply Service

» Fall River Manufacturing

» Foremost Fastener Corporation

» G-Fast Distribution Inc

» Greenslade & Company

» Hariton Machinery Co. Inc.

» J&M Plating, Inc.

» Kanebridge Corporation

» Ken Forging

» Manten

» Metric & Multistandard Components

» North East Fasteners Corp.

» Rick Rudolph Associates

» RK Precision Products

» Screws Industries Inc.

» Sems and Specials, Inc.

» South Holland Metal Finishing

» SPIROL International

» Stelfast Fasteners

» SWD Inc.

» Tru-Pack

» Wing-Hamlin Company, Inc.

» Wrought Washer Mfg., Inc

» XL Screw Corporation

* Bold indicates a company or personal sponsorship

FTI ANNOUNCES ALL-DAY TRAINING AT FASTENER FAIR USA

FTI PRESENTS FASTENING 101SPONSORED BY STAR STAINLESS

The Fastener Training Institute (FTI) will present Fastening 101 ahead of Fastener Fair USA in Nashville on Tuesday, May 27. Come for the class and stay for the show – or come to the show and take the class.

“Our Fastening 101 class has really evolved. The content is extensive and offers much more than the basics,” said Jo Morris, Managing Director for FTI. “It’s the perfect way to kick-off the show.”

Students will explore nuances of fastener applications and design concepts to understand why certain head styles, drive features, thread forms, materials, heat treatments and plating and coatings are used.

This all-day class, sponsored by Star Stainless, is for OEM’s, engineers,

sales professionals, quality assurance professionals, purchasers, those in sourcing & quoting, marketing or management as well as anyone interested in learning more about fasteners. The class is taught by Laurence Claus, Industrial Fasteners Institute’s Director of Education and Training.

Attendees will leave with a vast appreciation of the diversity and breadth of fastener designs, understand how fasteners are produced and recognize cost variations across fasteners.

Register directly with Fastener Training Institute. The cost for Fastening 101 on May 27 with exhibit hall access on May 28-29 is $399. For those who also want to attend the networking party at Honky Tonk Bar on May 28, the cost is $469. Prices increase on May 6, 2025.

Visit FTI at booth #641 during the show and learn about in-person, online, on demand and on-site training classes.

Fastening 101 sponsored by Star Stainless

Würth Industry USA has been FTI’s sustaining sponsor since 2019 supporting ongoing fastener education efforts.

READER’S CORNER

SWD INC. ACQUIRES METALS TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION

SWD Inc., a leader in the Metal Finishing and Fastener Sorting fields, is proud to announce the acquisition of the assets and retained the employees of Metals Technology Corporation, a renowned Commercial Heat Treater based in Carol Stream, Illinois. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in SWD Inc.’s growth and commitment to providing comprehensive Metal Processing Solutions.

SWD Inc specializes in Black Oxide, Passivation, Phosphating as well as superior corrosion resistant Magni, Doerken and Yuken Coating Systems.

Rick Delawder, President of SWD Inc., expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating, “we are excited to

welcome Metals Technology Corporation into the SWD family. This acquisition aligns with our vision to expand our capabilities and offer our customers an integrated solution for their metal processing needs. The combined expertise and resources of both companies will enable us to deliver even greater value to the essential manufacturing community we serve.”

Metals Technology Corporation has been a trusted name in the industry for over 60 years. Known for their high-quality Austemper and Vacuum Heat-Treating Services and dedication to customer satisfaction. The acquisition will allow SWD Inc. to enhance its service offerings and strengthen its position as a market leader in the Metal Finishing and Fastener Sorting sectors.

The newly formed entity, Better4, LLC, will operate Metals Technology Corporation, ensuring co ntinuity and maintaining the strong relationships built with customers over the years. The integration process is already underway, and both companies are committed to a seamless transition that will benefit all stakeholders.

SWD Inc. is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality, innovation, and customer service. With this acquisition, the company is looking at significant investments to streamline operations to continue its legacy of excellence and be “Better⁴ in every degree!”

For more information contact Matthew Delawder, VP Sales & Marketing,, by Tel: 630543-3003, Email: mdelawder@swdinc.com or visit them online at www.swdinc.com.

EVENT UPDATE: MWFA & NASF JOINT MEETING

MWFA & NASF JOINT MEETING ON CBAM: A NIGHT OF INSIGHT AND ENGAGEMENT

The MWFA & NASF joint meeting on CBAM, hosted by Darlene Collis of LindFast Group, was an outstanding success! With CBAM being an ever-evolving topic, attendees from both organizations gained valuable insights from Darlene’s expertise as she navigated the complexities and latest developments surrounding this critical subject.

The discussion was dynamic, with questions continuously flowing as participants explored the impact of CBAM on the fastener and surface finishing industries. Darlene’s in-depth knowledge and engaging presentation made for an informative and thought-provoking session, highlighting the importance of staying ahead of industry changes.

Beyond the learning, the evening was elevated by an amazing dinner, fostering great conversations and valuable

networking opportunities. The interactive atmosphere reinforced the strength of collaboration between MWFA and NASF, demonstrating the value of shared knowledge and industry connections.

A huge thank you to Darlene Collis for leading such an insightful session and to everyone from MWFA and NASF who attended and contributed to the discussion. If you missed this one, be sure to join us for our next MWFA meeting—you won’t want to miss out.

SHOWCASE YOUR COMPANY IN AND EXCLUSIVE “MEMBER HIGHLIGHT” IN ONE OF OUR UPCOMING MWFA NEWSLETTERS.

We are accepting reservations now - the maximum featured members per issue are two so requests will be scheduled in order of receipt. Showcasing your company allows you the opportunity to introduce yourself, in detail to fellow members and fastener personnel. Every company has a story, so share yours!

To secure your spot, contact Francesca Lewis at mwfa@mwfa.net.

EVENT UPDATE: FASCINATION WITH FASTENERS

FASCINATION WITH FASTENERS CLASS DRAWS ONE OF OUR LARGEST GROUPS YET

On March 20th, the Mid-West Fastener Association hosted one of its largest Fascination with Fasteners classes to date at the Addison Village Hall — and it was a full day of learning, engagement, and handson experience.

Students from across the industry gathered to gain foundational fastener

knowledge, guided by an expert team of instructors: Tom Blakely of BBI, Tom Tumbarello of Brico Industries, Matt Delawder of SWD Inc., and Jeff Adams of Wing-Hamlin. Each instructor brought their own perspective and expertise to the class, creating a well-rounded and impactful learning environment.

Midway through the day, attendees enjoyed a special behind-the-scenes tour of Brico Industries. The opportunity to see

manufacturing operations in action added a valuable dimension to the classroom instruction and was a highlight for many participants.

Thank you to our outstanding instructors, to Brico for hosting the plant tour, and to all the students who made the day such a success. Events like these continue to show the power of industry education and collaboration in strengthening the fastener community.

READER’S CORNER

DARLOC CORPORATION OFFERS NEW SAMPLE KIT, AUTOMATIC SCREW MACHINE PARTS TO PRINT & ADDED PATTERNS OF LOCKNUTS.

DarLoc Corporation of Long Grove, IL, a stocking supplier of the highest quality, specialty niche product line of Miniature and Clinch Self-Locking Nylon Insert and All-Metal Locknuts, now offers Automatic Screw Machine Parts to Print & a free sample kit. Celebrating its 19th year, DarLoc supplies at competitive “commodity-like” prices, within your delivery requirements.

DarLoc has added many different patterns of locknuts to their product line.

Most are available from stock, in steel, stainless, brass, & aluminum materials. Let us know if you have a special material requirement. We offer zinc, zinc yellow, cadmium, cadmium yellow, cadmium olive drab, & cadmium with molybdenum film lube, wax, & other platings. Chemical, Physical, & Plating Certifications are available.

Their product line now includes the following patterns: “1660” Miniature Hex (from #0-#4), “LH1660” All-Metal, Miniature Hex (from #2-#6), “NM107, 408, 2234” Reduced Hex (from #4 -1/4”), “ND” Spline (from #8-1/2”), “NCFMA” Miniature Clinch Flush Mounting (from #2-#10), “LHCFM” All-Metal Miniature Clinch Flush

Mounting (#2-1/4”), “NKCFM” Miniature Clinch Flush Mounting, with Nylon Cap (#2-#10), “NC” Clinch (#4-5/16”), and NKM/NKE/NKTM/NKTE, Nylon Cap (#41/2”, Steel). Most patterns are available in Steel, Stainless, Brass, & Aluminum. Metric sizes are also available.

Automatic Screw Machine/CNC special parts, per your print, are also being offered.

If you have a special requirement, reach out to DarLoc Sales Department - we will gladly help with all your needs!

For more information or a free sample kit, contact Darloc Corporation at 5348 Red Oak Drive, Long Grove, IL 60047. Tel: 847840-9467, Email: sales@darloc.com or visit them online at www.darloc.com.

BRIGHTON-BEST INTERATIONAL CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

TRIED, TESTED AND TRUE FOR OVER 100 YEARS

Brighton-Best International was established in 1925. In this decade, we saw surging fashion trends, economic prosperity, the repeal of prohibition, women’s suffrage, and the end of a world war. The 1920’s to 1930’s were a time of great change and opportunity in the country.

Our company began its history 100 years ago with the intention of providing distributors with tested, tried, and true products. For a country that is 249 years old, this is an amazing achievement. While the times have changed, our commitment to our distributors have not.

BBI is more than a place of fasteners. Our company is a place where trust in our brands and services can be counted on. A place where people embrace each other and a place where we envision the change of tomorrow.

dedication and hard work of our team.

Imagine the hands that have touched these products over the years. The hundred million of hands that have built bridges, homes, and their dreams with these fasteners. These hands belong to individuals who have poured their heart and soul into their work, ensuring that every piece built with our industry fasteners meets the highest standards of quality.

ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Our vision for tomorrow is one of innovation, sustainability, and continued excellence. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible and setting new standard of service in our industry.

To our employees, past and present, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your hard work, dedication, and passion have been the driving force behind our success.

You are the heart and soul of BrightonBest, and we are incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together. We all truly stand on the shoulders of our predecessors who are in their own rights, giants of our industry. Let’s keep making history together.

As we celebrate our centennial, we reflect on the journey that has brought us here. From humble beginnings, BrightonBest has grown into a beacon of reliability and innovation. Our story is not just one of products and services, but of people and passion. Each bolt, each screw, each fastener we distribute is a testament to the

We are more than just a company; we are part of a community. A community that has weathered storms, celebrated victories, and grown stronger together. The bonds we share are forged through collaboration and mutual respect. We have laughed together, sometimes cried together, faced challenges together, and achieved greatness together.

As we look to the future, we do so with a sense of excitement and optimism. The world is changing rapidly, and we are

To our customers and partners, thank you for your trust and loyalty. Your support has been instrumental in our journey, and we look forward to continuing to serve you with the same level of excellence and integrity that you have come to expect from us.

As we look to the next 100 years, we do so with appreciation, excitement, and optimism. Let’s Go!

For more information contact Brighton-Best International at their USA Headquarters: 5860 Paramount Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90805. Tel: 562-8088000, Fax: 562-808-8137, Email: sales@ brightonbest.com or visit them online at www.brightonbest.com.

MWFA WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS

Accurate Screw Machine - part of MW Components, is based in Fairfield, NJ, and has specialized in precision electronic hardware and fasteners since 1967. They offer quick-turn standard and custom components for industries like aerospace, medical, and electronics.

Fastco Industries - based in Grand Rapids, MI, has been manufacturing highquality cold-headed fasteners since 1970. Specializing in custom studs, bolts, rivets, pins, and screws, they serve industries like automotive, construction, and defense— all proudly made in the USA.

GTSE Group - founded in 2014 and based in Chesterfield, England, is a leading supplier of cable ties, tapes, and related accessories. They offer a comprehensive range of products, including standard and colored zip ties, metal and reusable ties, as well as various tapes such as masking, aluminum foil, and vinyl electrical tape.

GTSE serves both individual customers and multinational corporations, emphasizing quality products and exceptional customer service

Modern Plating Corp - Founded in 1936 and headquartered in Freeport, Illinois, Modern Plating Corporation specializes in zinc alloy plating and high-performance finishes for the transportation industry. With additional operations in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, they offer services such as barrel electroplating, organic coatings, and dip-spin processes. As one of the largest zinc alloy plating facilities in the U.S., Modern Plating is ISO 9001:2015 certified and serves a diverse clientele across various sectors.

Precise Stamping - Founded in 1959 and located in North Aurora, Illinois, Precise Stamping, Inc. specializes in precision metal fabrication services, including laser cutting, CNC machining, stamping, forming, and welding. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified company, they are committed to delivering high-quality products across various industries. Their state-of-the-

art facility and experienced team ensure efficient and accurate production, making them a trusted partner for both small-scale and large-scale manufacturing needs.

Setko Fasteners & Distribution - located in Hampshire, Illinois, is a family-owned business with a legacy spanning over 80 years. Setko offers a wide range of products, including set screws, cap screws, bolts, nuts, washers, and hex keys. Committed to building strong customer relationships, they provide both domestically manufactured and imported fasteners to meet diverse client needs.

Valley Fastener Group - Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, Valley Fastener Group is an ISO 9001-certified manufacturer of industrial fastening products. With additional facilities in Naperville, Illinois, and Elyria, Ohio, they specialize in producing rivets, cold-headed fasteners, threaded products, and pins. Valley Fastener serves diverse industries, including automotive, military and defense, and heavy equipment manufacturing.

2025 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

The 2025 MWFA Scholarship application forms are now available online. Vist our website at www. mwfa.net and visit the scholarships section to learn more and get your application form. Download to complete the form and then submit. Eligible employees, their children, and spouses may apply.

Scholarships awarded are a one time award. Awards range, in value, from $1,500 to over $5,500.

Companies wishing to offer a scholarship in their name, or name of their choice, may do so with a donation of $1,000 or more. MWFA will match a portion of the funds and add to our list of “named scholarships” awarded in November.

2025 EVENTS CALENDAR

April 22

April 24

May 22

CBAM Follow up Lunch & Learn

Webinar

Heat Treating & Plating Class

SWD, Addison, IL

Taste of Da Vine

Venuti’s Ristorante, Addison, IL

6th Annual Screwed Up Open

White Pines Golf Course, Elmhurst, IL

May 22 Nuts & Brews

Church Street Brewing Company, Itasca, IL

May 28-29 Fastener Fair Nashville, TN

July 30 Milwaukee Meeting- Brewers Game Milwaukee, WI

August 23-29