CELEBRATING 80 YEARS COMMITMENT TO THE FASTENER INDUSTRY SUMMER 2026
MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME: CLASS OF 2026
...plus our company inductees The Mid-West Fastener Association is proud to celebrate the 2026 Hall of Fame class. Ten individuals and companies whose careers and contributions have shaped this industry and this association for the better. The MWFA Hall of Fame recognizes those who have gone beyond the ordinary, giving their time, expertise and passion in service of something larger than their own success. This year’s class is no exception. From decades of board service and educational leadership to business innovation and steadfast advocacy, each inductee has left a mark on the fastener community that will be felt for years to come.
David Gawlik
Branch Manager, Stelfast Inc. David Gawlik’s career in the fastener industry spans 37 years, beginning in 1989 in inside sales at Willie Washer. He went on to hold
and positions at Brico Industries and Porteous Fastener Company before joining Stelfast Inc., where he opened the company’s Chicago branch from the ground up, sourcing the facility, hiring staff, establishing inventory, and developing a ten-state territory. He later built his Midwest book of business at Autocraft from zero to over $5 million annually, with no existing accounts provided to him. He returned to Stelfast as Branch Manager in 2021, the role he holds today. Education - The MWFA approached David while he was at Porteous and asked him to teach a segment of the association’s introductory fastener course. He accepted, and before long had taken full ownership of the class. He developed the curriculum, assembled the sample bag that accompanied each session, and coined the course’s new name, “Fascination with Fasteners,” which is still in use today. What began as a class of 15 grew under his leadership to 40 or more attendees. »»»
TURN TO PAGE 6 TO READ MORE ABOUT THE MWFA’s HALL OF FAME: CLASS OF 2026
NOTE FROM OUR PRESIDENT Whether through our scholarship program,
2026 MWFA PRESIDENT
Jill Lewis INTEGRATED PACKAGING & FASTENER
which has now awarded more than $1
Thanks to you all for your continued
million to deserving students over the years,
membership, participation, and commitment
or our charitable initiatives that positively
to MWFA. Together, we are honoring the
impact local communities, MWFA members
legacy of those who came before us while
consistently demonstrate that our association
building a stronger future for the next
is about more than just business.
generation of fastener professionals.
As we enter the second half of the
I look forward to seeing many of you
year, I encourage each of you to stay
at our upcoming events and continuing our
engaged, participate in upcoming events,
celebration of this historic 80th Anniversary
and take advantage of the educational and
year.
networking opportunities available through Happy Summer MWFA Members!!
community.
the association. Our industry continues to
As we move through the summer
face challenges and opportunities alike, but
months, I continue to be inspired by the
one thing remains constant—the value
strength, resilience, and generosity of the
of strong relationships and a supportive
Wishing you and your families a safe, successful, and enjoyable summer.
MWFA community. This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the Mid-West Fastener Association—a milestone that reflects eight decades of industry leadership, education, collaboration, and friendship. FSTNR Week was a tremendous success and a perfect example of what makes our association special. From plant tours and
2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Directors
networking events to our community service projects and the Fastener Show, the week showcased the passion and dedication that drive our industry forward. Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered,
Alternates
sponsored, and helped make the week memorable. One of the things I am most proud of is our continued commitment to giving back.
2
Executive Director
Jill Lewis - Integrated Packaging & Fastener Bobby Wegner - Beacon Fasteners and Components George Hunt III - Brighton-Best International Sam Lang - Certified Fastener Jake Davis - BTM Manufacturing Glen Brin - DarLoc Corporation Cory Wing - Wing-Hamlin Co. Inc. Matt Delawder - SWD Inc. Ignacy Paprocki - Blue Ribbon Fastener Jeff Kempka - GF&D Systems Steve Payne - Parker Fasteners Michael Naidenovich - AFI Industries Francesca Lewis
THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 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.
» AFI Industries Inc. » Abbott-Interfast » All American Systems » Brighton-Best International » Brikksen Stainless » Brynolf Manufacturing » BTM Manufacturing » Buckeye Fastener Company » Certified Fastener & Industrial Supply » Chicago Hardware & Fixture Co. » Clarcorp Industrial Sales » Component Technologies International » Crescent Manufacturing » Darling Bolt Company » Darloc Corporation » Engineered Components Company » Eurolink FSS » Fall River Manufacturing » Fastron Company » Hanger Bolt & Stud Company
» Integrated Packaging » ISSCO Inc. » Kanebridge Corporation » Ken Forging » Komar Screw Corporation » Lindfast Solutions Group » Metric & Multistandard » National Bolt & Nut » Sems and Specials, Inc. » South Holland Metal Finishing » SWD Inc. » Tru-PackS » WAFIOS » Wing-Hamlin Company, Inc. » Wurth » XL Screw Corporation » ZMG Fasteners Plus * Bold indicates a company or personal sponsorship
3
4
5
HALL OF FAME: CLASS OF 2026 continued David Gawlik cont.
Robert R. Baer
Branch Manager, Stelfast Inc.
CEO/President, Abbott Interfast
has served on the Fastener Fair advisory board. In recognition of his contributions, Robert was
David was largely
Robert Baer joined
previously inducted into the International
responsible for creating
Abbott Interfast as CEO
Fastener Hall of Fame at the International
two additional courses
and President in 1992, a
Fastener Expo.
that are now cornerstones
position he has held ever
of the curriculum: Print
since. At Abbott, he has
Becky Russo-Botti
Reading and Essentials
built and strengthened
Sems and Specials
of Heat Treating and Plating. He also recruited
global supply chains, managed high-volume
Becky Russo-Botti’s
many of the speakers, instructors, and
fastener programs, and developed long-term
career in the fastener
companies that provide facility tours, and
strategic supplier partnerships across North
industry began in 1983
co-authored the MWFA’s Fastener Technical
America and Asia. His expertise navigating
at Globe Fasteners. She
tariffs, trade regulations, and complex
went on to hold positions
international sourcing environments has
at MNP International, Rumco, and American
made him an invaluable resource throughout
Fasteners and Components before joining
the industry.
Sems and Specials in 2015, where she remains
Guide. He took the program on the road to Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Indiana, setting attendance records along the way. Years after leading the introductory course, David has called on customers who were former students and found that they still have their certificates and sample bags. That kind of lasting impression speaks to the value and care he brought to every class.
Board Service - David served on the MWFA Board of Directors for approximately 20 years, holding the offices of President, Vice President, and Secretary. As President, he expanded the association’s outreach into Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and other surrounding areas, hosting dinner and education meetings in new cities and growing membership in the process.
MWFA Service - Robert’s service to the Mid-West Fastener Association spans more than 20 years of volunteer leadership. He served two years as President and for more than 15 years as Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee. His disciplined approach to financial oversight helped build the reserves and planning frameworks that continue to support MWFA operations today. He has also actively contributed to numerous MWFA committees over the years.
Industry Leadership - Robert has served as a Board Member of the
today. Becky served on the MWFA Board of Directors for eight years. Her passion for education was a constant throughout her tenure. She served on the Education Committee and taught at numerous MWFA educational seminars, sharing her knowledge and elevating the skills of industry professionals. She advanced from the Education Committee to Vice President and ultimately became the MWFA’s second female President, a meaningful milestone for the association.
Though he is no longer on the Board,
Fastener Industry Coalition (FIC) since 2014,
Even after completing her board service,
David remains a committed advocate for the
contributing to trade policy advocacy affecting
Becky has continued to volunteer at industry
MWFA. He accepted his 2026 Hall of Fame
the entire fastener supply chain. He is also a
events, particularly the annual golf outing.
induction with characteristic humility: “I want
Board Member of the Fastener Training
She remains an enthusiastic ambassador
to sincerely thank the MWFA Board for naming
Institute (FTI), supporting the education of the
for the MWFA, encouraging colleagues and
me to the Hall of Fame. I am truly honored.”
next generation of fastener professionals, and
industry partners to get involved. »»»
6
HALL OF FAME: CLASS OF 2026 continued Joe L. Davis Jr.
Paula Evitts
Nick Viggiano
Founder and CEO, ISSCO, INC.
President, Avante Imports
Vice President, Supply Chain Management
Joe L. Davis Jr. began
As a Past President
Brighton-Best International, Inc.
his fastener industry career
of
the
Mid-West
Nick Viggiano’s fastener
in 1963 as an employee of
Fastener
Association,
career spans fifty years.
Kansas City Bolt. He went
Paula Evitts brought to
After two decades at
on to outside sales at Bosco
the role an approach
Reynolds
Bolt, Nut and Screw from 1970 to 1974. When
defined by collaboration and a genuine
Manager, he moved to
his salary was cut in half and his commissions
focus on the long-term success of both the
Heads and Threads, then to Porteous Fastener
eliminated, Joe and his wife Margaret founded
organization and its members. Her presidency
Company as Vice President, before joining
ISSCO, INC. on April 1, 1974, from the basement
strengthened member engagement and
Brighton-Best International as Vice President
of their Independence, Missouri home.
helped shape the direction of the MWFA
of Supply Chain Management.
as
Regional
What followed was fifty years of building
during her tenure. Beyond her time as
In 1989, Nick was a key contact and
a company defined by high service, product
President, Paula has served for many years as
participant for the MWFA as it pertained to
availability, and deep relationships with
an active member of the Board of Directors,
the Fastener Quality Act. He was sent four
customers and suppliers alike. Joe credits
contributing to key initiatives, events, and
times as part of the FQA advisory committee,
those three things as the foundation of ISSCO’s
programs that have helped the association
working alongside industry leaders including
enduring success. In January 2013, Joe and
grow.
Bill Hayes, George Wasmer, Charlie Wilson, Jay
his two sons purchased BTM Manufacturing,
Among
Paula’s
most
enduring
Hebert, Keith Bussie, and Nancy Rich, helping
and both BTM and ISSCO remain active MWFA
contributions is her role in reviving the
to draft the legislation that would shape
members today.
MWFA Hall of Fame through her work on
fastener standards for decades to come.
From the beginning, Joe put his employees
the Historical Committee. Her efforts helped
Nick served on the MWFA Board of
first. He ensured that ISSCO provided benefits
ensure that the legacies of industry leaders
Directors from 1989 to 1995, including six
not seen at many companies, and he served as
are recognized and preserved for future
years as Treasurer and dedicated service on
a mentor to many employees over the years.
generations.
the Scholarship Committee. He took the
He was also an early champion of the CBSNA/
On the professional side, Paula has
scholarship review process seriously, believing
MWFA, recognizing the association’s value
grown Avante Imports into a meaningful
deeply in the program’s value to students and
when ISSCO was still a small, growing company.
contributor to the fastener supply chain,
the industry’s future.
His son Jake, who nominated him for this
building the company largely on her own.
He was also a regular volunteer at MWFA
honor, described his father as the hardest-
Paula’s nominator, MWFA President Jill
events, including the golf outings where he
working man he has ever known, a quiet and
Lewis, put it plainly: “I personally have looked
manned the dunk tank to raise money for the
humble person whose long hours in ISSCO’s
up to Paula and her work in the industry, as
scholarship fund. For fifty years, Nick Viggiano
early years laid the groundwork for everything
well as how she showed me there was a place
has been exactly the kind of member that
that followed.
for women in this industry.”
makes an association worth belonging to. »»»
7
HALL OF FAME: CLASS OF 2026 continued Rich Cavoto
Metric & Multi Component Corp. Rich Cavoto started part-time with Metric Multi Component Corp. in 1978, joined fulltime after graduating from Illinois State University in May 1980, and has been with the company ever since. That kind of loyalty to one organization over more than four decades is rare, and it reflects something central to who Rich is: once he is committed to something, he shows up fully and for the long haul. The same has been true of his relationship with the Mid-West Fastener Association. Rich has been a longtime board member and leader, and over the years has played a pivotal role in growing the MWFA’s reputation and helping it gain recognition on a national scale. When the MWFA is mentioned anywhere in the industry, his name tends to come up Education and Mentorship - Long before he officially joined the Board, Rich volunteered to teach the Metric portion of the MWFA’s “Fascination with Fasteners” class, returning to do it multiple times. He consistently donated supplies to support hands-on learning and collaborated with the Fastener Training Institute and Jo Morros to bring the Certified Fastener Specialist class to the MWFA. He also served as a mentor to numerous new board members, helping them find their footing with patience and encouragement.
Leadership and Lasting Contributions - Rich served as a two-term MWFA President from 2014 to 2015. He chaired the Golf Committee for more terms than any other board member, bringing energy and fun to
8
one of the association’s most beloved events, including securing access to his own private country club for one of the most memorable outings in MWFA history. He helped land an impressive roster of high-profile celebrity speakers for the annual November Scholarship Dinner Meeting and collaborated with NFDA and Pac-West to organize the first-ever joint conference among the three associations. He also made frequent appearances on Fully Threaded Radio, consistently and enthusiastically promoting the MWFA and its events to a national audience. Rich Cavoto’s contributions to this association span education, leadership, member engagement, and plain old showing up when it mattered. He is, as his nominator put it, someone who embodies everything the Hall of Fame stands for.
Company Inductee | Addison, IL SWD, Inc. is a third-generation familyowned company that started in 1980 with just three employees. Today it is a recognized leader in the metal finishing and fastener sorting fields, with over 300 employees running three shifts per day out of a 165,000 sq. ft. facility just west of Chicago in Addison, Illinois. SWD has built its reputation on exceptional production quality, complete customer satisfaction, and a continuing commitment to environmental conservation. That combination of operational excellence and community responsibility has made SWD a trusted partner across the fastener industry for more than four
decades. SWD has been an active and generous member of the MWFA, sponsoring many association events, participating in shows, and opening their facility and sharing their expertise in support of the MWFA’s educational mission. Their involvement reflects exactly the kind of industry citizenship the Hall of Fame is meant to recognize.
Company Inductee | Rockford, IL Since its founding, SEMS and Specials has distinguished itself as a leader in the manufacturing and distribution of specialized fasteners. The company has supported a wide range of industries, from automotive and electronics to heavy equipment and construction, by consistently delivering precision-engineered products and customized solutions. The company has continually invested in advanced manufacturing techniques and process improvements, enabling it to stay ahead of market trends and meet increasingly complex customer requirements. Its reputation is built on responsiveness, technical expertise, and a genuine dedication to helping customers succeed. Beyond its business achievements, SEMS and Specials has played an active role in supporting the broader industry through participation in professional associations, collaboration with peers, and the sharing of knowledge. The MWFA is proud to welcome SEMS and Specials into the Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
9
10
11
FSTNR WEEK ‘26: SCHEDULE
12
FSTNR WEEK ‘26: REGISTRATION
13
FASTENER SHOW 2026 - EXHIBITOR LISTING as of July 15, 2026
30 7 51 93 43 77 19 21 107 42 44 32 8 53 11 68 27 79 58 5 91 105 89 25 103 67 38 101 46 23 60 55 80 113 17 92 73 36 4 29
14
10X ERP ABBOTT METAL WERKS ADVANCED CABLE TIES ADVANCED COMPONENTS ALL AMERICAN THREADED PRODUCTS ALLEGHENY COATINGS ALOX.ONLINE AMERICAN RING & TOOL ANGOR-INTOOLS ATLAS DISTRIBUTION SERVICES AUTO BOLT COMPANY AVANTE IMPORTS BEACON FASTENERS & COMPONENTS BOLTWISE BRADLEY ADHESIVE APPLICATIONS BRICO INDUSTRIES INC BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL BRIKKSEN BRYNOLF MANUFACTURING BTM MANUFACTURING BUCKEYE FASTENER CABLE TIE EXPRESS CABLE TIES UNLIMITED CAMBRIDGE RESOURCES CENTRAL WIRE INDUSTRIES CHICAGO HARDWARE & FIXTURE COMPUTER INSIGHTS, INC. CONTINENTAL-AERO: A TRAMEC COMPANY CRESCENT MANUFACTURING DARLOC CORPORATION EDSON MANUFACTURING ENGINEERED COMPONENTS EUROLINK FSS EXPEDITE TESTING SERVICE E-Z LOK FASCOMP ELECTRONIC HARDWARE FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE FPM HEAT TREATING GF&D SYSTEMS GOEBEL FASTENERS
54 14 48 49 74 82 10 81 110 45 26 99 52 16 104 28 39 2 13 20 35 56 12 37 41 114 15 96 1 102 22 34 3 9 90 59 40 18 31 70 57 69 33 47 108 24 50 109 6
GTSE HANGER BOLT & STUD COMPANY HARITON MACHINERY COMPANY HUYETT INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE INFASCO DISTRIBUTION INTEGRATED PACKAGING INTERCORP INTUILIZE INXSQL SOFTWARE IRONCLAD PERFORMANCE WEAR J & M PLATING JAY-CEE SALES & RIVET JM TOR PAR KANEBRIDGE CORPORATION KERR LAKESIDE LINDFAST SOLUTIONS GROUP METAL RESOURCE SOLUTIONS METRIC & MULTISTANDARD MODERN PLATING COMPANY NBS CORPORATION ND INDUSTRIES / H.B. FULLER NORD-LOCK NUCOR FASTENER NYLOK FASTENER CORPORATION PARKER FASTENERS MFG GROUP PRESTIGE STAMPING PROSPECT FASTENER ROGAN CORPORATION S. W. ANDERSON SCHNORR CORPORATION SCREWS INDUSTRIES SEMS & SPECIALS SETKO FASTENERS SHEREX FASTENING SOLUTIONS SPIROL INTERNATIONAL SUMEEKO INDUSTRIES CO., LTD. SWD INC. TRISTAR METALS TRUFORM EQUIPMENT TRU-PACK TRUSORT FASTENER SERVICES VOLT INDUSTRIAL PLASTICS W. J. ROBERTS WILLIE WASHER MANUFACTURING WROUGHT WASHER WTC SERVICES WYANDOTTE INDUSTRIES XL SCREW CORPORATION
THANK YOU TO OUR FSTNR WEEK SPONSORS FSTNR Week is fast approaching and we would like to take a moment to recognize the generosity of our FSTNR Week sponsors. We offer our thanks!
DIAMOND SPONSORS
PLATINUM SPONSORS
» Brighton-Best International » Lindfast Solutions Group » SWD Inc.
» Avante Imports » Integrated Packaging » Kanebridge Corporation
GOLD SPONSORS » Abbott Metal Werks » Angor-Intools » Atlas Distribution Services » Beacon Fasteners & Components » Brikksen Stainless » BTM Manufacturing
» Buckeye Fasteners » FPM Heat Treating » Hanger Bolt & Stud Co. » Industrial Fasteners Institute » Ironclad Performance Wear » J&M Plating
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
» Bay Standard Manufacturing Inc » Fascomp Electronic Hardware » Ken Forging
» 10X ERP » Advance Components » American Ring & Tool » Cable Ties Unlimited » Crescent Manufacturing » GF&D Systems
List current as of 07/15/2026
» Metal Resource Solutions » ND Industries » Parker Fasteners Group » SW Anderson Company » Sems and Specials » XL Screw Corporation
» Goebel Fasteners » Intuilize, Inc. » Nord-Lock » Nylok Fasteners Corporation » Prestige Stamping » Screws Industries
EVENT RECAP: ESSENTIALS IN HEAT TREATING & PLATING The Mid-West Fastener Association was proud to once again host its annual Essentials of Heat Treating and Plating seminar on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Held at two great facilities in Addison, Illinois, the day was a tremendous success and a reminder of why this class is such a valued part of the MWFA’s education calendar. The morning began at SWD Inc., where expert presentations from Matt Delawder of SWD and Joan Sosinski and Ed Garcia of Morgan Ohare set the tone for the day. This intermediate-level class breaks down the heat treating and plating side of the fastener world in a way that is both thorough and accessible, covering
everything from metallurgy fundamentals and electroplating to hydrogen embrittlement, conversion coatings, and popular automotive finishes — all taught by true industry experts. Following the presentations, students were treated to a guided tour of the SWD plant, putting eyes on the very processes they had just been learning about. There is simply no substitute for seeing this work done in person, and the SWD facility provided an ideal environment for that kind of hands-on learning. After the tour, attendees broke for lunch provided by the MWFA before reconvening for the afternoon session back at SWD to complete the day’s coursework.
To cap off an already full and fantastic day, students made their way down the street to Morgan Ohare, where a final plant tour gave everyone one last look at plating operations up close. It was the perfect ending to a day that managed to be both educational and genuinely exciting. Anyone selling or purchasing fasteners benefits enormously from understanding the details of heat treating and plating — and this class delivers exactly that. We look forward to this event every year, and 2026 was no exception. A heartfelt thankyou to SWD Inc., Morgan Ohare, our expert presenters, and everyone who came out and made the day what it was. See you next year!
15
16
17
MWFA SUMMER OUTING: A DAY AT THE BALLPARK On June 24th, members of the Mid-
one bit! What was supposed to be a quick
so many familiar faces — and a few new
West Fastener Association gathered at Rate
gathering before heading to our seats turned
ones — out enjoying the summer evening
Field in Chicago for our summer outing — a
into extra time for members to catch up,
together.
White Sox vs. Cleveland Guardians matchup
swap stories, and enjoy each other’s company
that turned into so much more than just a
before the game even got underway.
ballgame.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out and made this outing such
We were thrilled by the turnout. The
a memorable one. Events like this are what
With a rain delay pushing back the first
size of the crowd that joined us made the
make MWFA more than just an association
pitch, our patio pre-party got an unexpected
outing feel like a true MWFA community
— they make it a community. We can’t wait
extension — and nobody seemed to mind
celebration, and it was wonderful to see
to see you at the next one!
18
19
20
21
RECORD TURNOUT AT THE 2026 SCREWED UP OPEN The 2026 Screwed Up Open is officially
a small, no-frills golf outing — nothing
the event possible year after year, to the
in the books — and what a day it was.
fancy, just good people getting out on the
volunteers who give their time and energy
Despite some chilly temperatures that
course together. Over the years, it has grown
to keep everything running smoothly, and
greeted golfers at White Pines Golf Club in
organically into one of the most anticipated
to every single guest who bundled up and
Bensenville, a record number of attendees
events on the MWFA calendar, and this
headed out to the course. You are the heart
showed up and proved that a little cold
year’s record attendance is a testament to
of this event.
weather is no match for a great outing.
that growth. It is a reminder that the best
If this year’s record turnout is any
Fairways were packed, spirits were high,
traditions aren’t built overnight — they are
indication, the Screwed Up Open is only
and the energy throughout the day was
built through consistency, community, and
going to keep growing. We are already
nothing short of incredible.
a shared love of the game.
looking forward to bringing everyone back
What makes this year’s turnout even
Events like this don’t come together on
together next year for what is sure to be
more meaningful is how far this event has
their own. A huge thank you goes out to our
another unforgettable day on the links. See
come. The Screwed Up Open started as
generous sponsors whose support makes
you on the fairway!
22
23
24
25
READER’S CORNER INTERCORP STRONG TIMBER STRUCTURAL SCREWS RECEIVE ICC REPORT CONFIRMING MODERN SAFETY CODE CONFORMANCE
while providing added confidence in code
ICC Report positions Strong Timber screws
compliance and long-term performance.
for even broader adoption in structural
report, Strong Timber screws also received
For over 38 years, Intercorp has
Intercorp announced that its Strong
additional modern safety code reports in
provided premium fastener solutions under
Timber screw line has officially received the
California, Florida, Oregon, the City of Los
the Strong-Point® brand.
ICC Report, marking a major milestone for
Angeles, and Chicago, helping support
Strong Timber fasteners feature
the company’s structural fastening portfolio
specification opportunities across multiple
advanced WAR coating for corrosion
and expanding opportunities across
major construction markets.
protection,
In addition to the primary ICC-ES
wood construction applications.”
high-grade
carbon
steel
“The ICC Report represents an
construction, and a Type 17 point for
important step forward for the Strong
fast, pre-drill-free installation. Designed
engineers,
Timber line and reinforces Intercorp’s
for demanding framing and structural
architects, and code officials, the ICC Report
continued commitment to delivering
applications,
is a key part of the specification process for
fastening solutions customers can specify
durability, and reduced driving torque for
structural building products. This milestone
with confidence,” said David Harlan, Director
greater jobsite efficiency indoors and out.
positions Strong Timber screws for broader
of Marketing. “As code requirements
For more information about Intercorp, visit
acceptance across structural applications
continue evolving across the industry, the
residential, commercial, and engineered wood construction markets. For
26
many
builders,
they
deliver
strength,
them online at www.intercorpusa.com.
27
WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS » J&L Fasteners - Hammond, Indiana
A family-owned distributor of fasteners, hose, and MRO supplies founded in 1979, with operations across the Chicagoland area, Indianapolis, and Cleveland. jlfasteners.com » Primat Curtis - Sterling Heights, Michigan
A global fastener coatings group offering zinc flake, heat treat, and patching services across North America, Europe, and South America. primatcurtis.com » Charter Wire - Milwaukee, Wisconsin A subsidiary of Charter Manufacturing and a leader in cold rolling technology, supplying precision cold finish bar, cold rolled steel custom profiles, and shaped wire. charterwire.com » DÖRKEN Coatings Grass Lake, Michigan
A specialist in high-quality surface protection and zinc flake coatings, serving the automotive, fastener, and industrial markets worldwide. doerken.com » Abbott Metal Werks Wheeling, Illinois
A precision parts manufacturer producing
28
inserts, standoffs, spacers, custom fasteners, and pins using automatic screw machines and secondary finishing operations. amwfast.com » Schnorr Corp Ann Arbor, Michigan
A manufacturer and distributor of disc springs, serrated safety washers, and boltlocking systems, backed by more than 100 years of German engineering heritage. schnorr.com » TrueNorth Companies Cedar Rapids, Iowa
An independent risk management and insurance brokerage firm offering specialized solutions for manufacturing and distribution businesses. truenorthcompanies.com » Krueger Steel & Wire Elmhurst, Illinois
A family-owned producer of cold-finished bar and wire products, including bright basic and plating-quality wire, with nearly 80 years in the steel industry. kruegerco.com » Woodworth Heat Treating Flint, Michigan
A heat treatment and surface engineering provider offering nitriding, FNC, and proprietary Nanowear/Ultrawear technologies for fastening and
industrial systems. woodworthheattreating.com » Intuilize Inc Grapevine, Texas
An AI-powered pricing and inventory optimization software platform built specifically for industrial and fastener distributors. intuilize. com » Fastener Plus Urbana, Iowa
A family-owned eCommerce fastener distributor offering Simpson Strong-Tie connectors, Tapcon screws, anchors, and custom cutting services. fastenersplus.com » American Specialty Products and
Machine Birmingham, Alabama
A fastener supplier specializing in custom bolts, studs, anchors, and bent products, with over 30 years serving the industry. amerispecandmachine.com » ALOX Online Durham, North Carolina
A full-cloud ERP platform built for fastener and industrial distributors, covering inventory, purchasing, sales, and customer management. alox4.online
READER’S CORNER Intercorp is proud to announce it has been named the 2025 Sphere1 Supplier of the Year during the Sphere1 Annual Conference in Marco Island, Florida. The honor was presented at the cooperative’s prestigious Sapphire Echelon level, marking Intercorp’s first-ever Supplier of the Year recognition within the Sphere1 network. The award recognizes outstanding supplier performance and highlights Intercorp’s continued commitment to growth, partnership, training, and service excellence throughout the construction and industrial supply industries. “This award is an incredible honor for our entire organization,” said David Harlan, Director of Marketing at Intercorp. “Being
recognized by Sphere1 members and fellow suppliers is especially meaningful because it reflects the strength of the relationships we’ve built and the dedication our team brings every day. We’re grateful for the support of our distributor partners and
customers who continue to believe in the Strong-Point® brand.” Supplier of the Year recipients are evaluated on several key performance metrics, including sales volume, year-over-year growth, program participation, engagement within the cooperative, and S1 University training completions. Customer nominations from Sphere1 members also played an important role in the selection process. Intercorp credits the achievement to the collective efforts of its employees, distributor partners, and customers, whose continued trust and collaboration have helped drive the company’s success. For more information about Intercorp, visit them online at www.intercorpusa.com.
29
30
31
32
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS DUE SEPT 1st Pass the word to your employees/ coworkers to take advantage of the opportunity for students to apply for a MWFA Scholarship. Several scholarships will be awarded, minimum of $1,500. The son or daughter (natural or step or dependent child), as well as a spouse of an employee, or employee of a MWFA member are eligible to apply for a scholarship. This applies to all MWFA members who have been members for one calendar year or more. Dues must be current to apply. Please note that all Scholarship Applications must be completed and submitted by September 1st, 2026. Applications may be downloaded at www.mwfa.org. To view or share our digital newsletter, visit us online at www.mwfa.org/newsletter
2026 EVENTS CALENDAR
THE ASSOCIATION
A membership with connections that hold the world together, the Mid-West Fastener Association is one of the oldest fastener associations in the United States. For over 80 years, the association has expanded and evolved from a small local group, to the largest regional fastener association in the industry with members from coast to coast. THE MISSION
The MWFA’s primary purpose is to serve and promote the fastener industry and the ever changing needs of its membership base. The MWFA is dedicated to representing all fastener industry segments: manufacturers, distributors, importers and industry suppliers. THE BENEFIT
August 29 September 2
FSTNR Week Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
August 29
Tough Mudder Rockford, IL
August 30
Sleep In Heavenly Peace Bed Build SWD Inc, Addison, IL
August 31
73rd Annual Golf Outing Cog Hill Golf Club, Lemont, IL
September 1
Educational Program Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
September 1
Welcome Mixer Spirit of Chicago, Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
September 2
44th Tabletop Show Aon Grand Ballroom Balcony, Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
Scan to visit our Events Page
September 2
80th Anniversary Celebrations & Hall of Fame Dinner Aon Grand Ballroom, Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
October 7-9
International Fastener Expo Phoenix, AZ
November 5
Scholarship Dinner
December 10
Holiday Party
© 2026 Mid-West Fastener Association. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission from the copyright owner.
As a leader in the fastener industry, the MWFA continues to focus on educational programs. The association’s programs provide unsurpassed fastener industry training, utilizing industry experts with decades of industry experience, offering extensive knowledge and hands on training. THE MEMBERSHIP
For membership opportunities, contact the association below or visit us online. Mid-West Fastener Association
PO Box 255 Park Ridge, IL 60068 Tel: 847-438-8338 Email: mwfa@mwfa.org www.mwfa.org THE OPPORTUNITY
For advertising and press opportunities in the MWFA newsletter, contact the editor. Francesca Lewis Editor Email: mwfa@mwfa.org Upcoming Newsletter Deadline
September 1, 2026