Mid-West Fastener Association
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: MWFA SCHOLARSHIP AND HALL OF FAME DINNER
On November 7, 2024, the Mid-West Fastener Association hosted its highly anticipated Scholarship and Hall of Fame Dinner at Belvedere Banquets. The evening brought together members and guests to honor outstanding individuals, celebrate achievements, and enjoy an inspiring night of camaraderie and recognition.
The festivities began with a cocktail hour, setting the tone for an evening filled with meaningful connections and celebration. Attendees then gathered for a dinner, which was followed by the centerpiece of the night: the 2024 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
This year, we proudly inducted Glen Brin of DarLoc Corp and Bob Sachs of XL Screw into the Hall of Fame, recognizing their exceptional contributions and dedication to the fastener industry. Additionally, Kanebridge was honored as the 2024 Hall of Fame company inductee, celebrating their significant impact and leadership in the field.
The night’s momentum continued with an engaging keynote address by Joe O’Neil, a distinguished executive from the Chicago Bulls. Joe shared invaluable insights on leadership, perseverance, and the importance of community—lessons that resonated deeply with the audience.
The evening concluded with the presentation of our 2024 MWFA Scholarship Awards. We recognized the hard work and dedication of this year’s recipients, who represent the future of excellence in their respective fields. The scholarships, made possible by the generosity of our members and sponsors, will support these talented individuals as they pursue their educational and professional dreams.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, as well as our sponsors and volunteers who made this event possible. The MWFA is proud to celebrate the achievements of our community and looks forward to continuing this tradition of honoring excellence and fostering growth. »»»
NOTE FROM THE INCOMING PRESIDENT
Now, looking ahead, we have a very important event coming up. Please join us on February 13th at Venuti’s for a joint meeting with the National Association for Surface Finishing. At this meeting, we will focus on the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and how it will impact our industry. This is a crucial topic, and I encourage everyone to attend to better understand how we can prepare.
recommend it. The knowledge gained in this course will stay with them for years to come.
I am honored to serve as your President in 2025, and together, I believe we can make this year a milestone for both the MWFA and the fastener industry as a whole. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, collaboration, and success!
Happy 2025, MWFA Members!
I am excited to begin this year as your President, and I look forward to working together to make 2025 a successful year for all of us in the fastener community.
We have a full calendar ahead, filled with opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.
Before we dive into what’s to come, I would like to take a moment to recognize our previous President, Mr. Jake Davis. Jake’s dedication over the past two years has been truly exceptional. He led with passion, spearheaded a record-breaking bed build during FSTNR Week, and played an integral role in the smooth transition as we bid farewell to Nancy and welcomed Francesca. Jake set a high bar, and I aim to follow in his footsteps and serve you all to the best of my ability.
In March, we’ll hold our annual Fascination with Fasteners event. I took this class 20 years ago, and it’s still fresh in my memory! If you’re new to the industry, or if you have employees who would benefit from this valuable training, I highly
Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events.
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
INTEGRATED PACKAGING & FASTENER
NOTE FROM THE OUTGOING PRESIDENT
“How do I say goodbye to what we had? The good times that made us laugh, outweigh the bad. I thought we’d get to see forever, but forever’s gone away. It’s so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.” – Boyz II Men
As my two years as President of the Mid-West Fastener Association come to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on what an incredible journey it has been. Serving this amazing organization has been both an honor and a privilege, and I am immensely proud of all that we’ve accomplished together.
Thank you for trusting me to lead our association and for your unwavering support along the way. While I may be stepping down as President, I look forward to remaining an active part of this organization and seeing it continue to thrive in the years to come.
Here’s to an exciting future for the MWFA!
God Bless,
Over these past two years, we’ve strengthened our industry connections, hosted impactful events, and continued the MWFA’s tradition of supporting education and growth within our fastener community. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our board members, sponsors, and, of course, our incredible members.
2024 MWFA PRESIDENT
Jake Davis
BTM MANUFACTURING
HONORARY NIGHT FOR OUR HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
GLEN BRIN - VICE PRESIDENT, DARLOC CORPORATION
Glen graduated from Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. He began his career in the fastener industry in 1979 at Abbott Screw & Mfg. in Chicago, now known as Abbott Interfast Corporation in Wheeling, IL. Starting as an inside salesperson, Glen was promoted to Product Manager of their Locknut and Automatic Screw Machine Divisions, and later to Sales Manager. In 1990, Glen began his tenure at ContinentalAero’s Niles, IL office as Sales Manager, swiftly advancing to Vice President of Sales. Prior to this, he held sales roles at Innovative Components, Inc. in Schaumburg, IL. After retiring from Innovative Components in April, Glen now focuses exclusively on DarLoc Corporation, which he co-founded with his wife Darlene in 2006. His current efforts are dedicated to expanding DarLoc Corporation, particularly by broadening its offerings to include automatic screw machine parts tailored to precise specifications, alongside enhancing its miniature and clinch self-locking nut lines. In 2002, Glen was elected to the CBNSA
Board of Directors, the predecessor of the MWFA. He has served as Vice President, Secretary, and is currently the Scholarship Committee Chairman. Glen is thrilled to see the MWFA Scholarship program surpass $1 million in contributions to the employees, spouses, and children of their membership at the upcoming November meeting. Glen resides in Long Grove, IL, with his wife Darlene. They have three adult married children and two grandchildren.
BOB SACHS - PRESIDENT/CEO XL SCREW CORPORATION
Bob joined XL Screw Corporation (XL) in 1972 as the third employee. In 1979, Bob Sachs became a shareholder and Vice President of XL Screw Corporation. In January 2003, Bob was promoted to President and bought the company in 2005. Under his leadership, XL started leveraging technology and advanced computer systems in 1981 in order to expand its business. Because of their continual commitment to customer service, above standard quality in their products and speed to market, the company will be celebrating 56 years in business this November. As one of the very
first importers, Bob was instrumental in shaping the fastener industry as it is today. He educated and trained several overseas suppliers on manufacturing processes, quality, pallet bracing and much more. The fastener industry would likely not be what it is today if not for his time and hard work to help guide the importation of fastener products. Bob’s unwavering belief in education and the success of the MWFA makes him a respected figure within the industry. The idea of establishing a scholarship program for the CBNSA/ MWFA, was initiated by Bob. The program has flourished beyond expectations. He has donated to the scholarship fund for 26 consecutive years with contributions over $72,000. Bob is a staunch supporter of the MWFA with sponsorships at all events along with donating door and raffle prizes. In 2021, XL Screw Corp was honored with an induction into the MWFA Hall of Fame. Bob was also personally honored with an induction into the 2018 International Fastener Expo Hall of Fame.
COMPANY INDUCTEE
Kanebridge Corporation was founded on July 10, 1975, in a 350sq.ft. garage in Bloomfield, NJ, offering 27 sizes of Steel Round Head U-Drive screws. Rapid growth led to moves to larger facilities in Westwood, NJ (1976), Hillsdale, NJ (1977), and Mahwah, NJ (1983). »»»
HONORARY NIGHT FOR OUR HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
In 1982, the company shifted to serving only fastener distributors, introducing “1/8-Kegs” of pre zinc plated fasteners and publishing a net price catalog. By 1985, Kanebridge celebrated 10 years and opened a second branch in Bell, CA. It introduced Blind Rivets and began offering North American-made Grade-5 and Grade-8 Hex Cap Screws with certifications in 1986, alongside “Service Guarantees” for customer satisfaction. Expansion continued with a third location in Addison, IL (1987) and the introduction of 100% lot traceability in 1988. In 1994, Kanebridge became the first to stock U.S.made Zinc-plated Alloy Steel Socket Head Cap Screws and launched its Fastener
Reference Guide in 1996. The company reintroduced a comprehensive Stainless Steel line in 1997 and launched the “FasNet” e-commerce system in 1998. It expanded its product range to include Military-Grade hardware and Metric fasteners in 1999. Kanebridge’s Midwest branch moved to Elgin, IL in 2001, centralizing operations. By 2002, the inventory surpassed 20,000 items, and the company published a Source Book. In 2004, Kanebridge.com became the primary resource for pricing information. The company launched its Mobile App in 2014 and exceeded 40,000 items by 2015. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Kanebridge maintained high service levels. In 2022, the Elgin facility expanded to 120,000 sq.ft.. Kanebridge published its final printed Source Book in 2023, featuring 43,000 items, and launched a new website. In 2024, it introduced American Sockets, a full line of U.S.-made Socket products. From its humble beginnings, Kanebridge has grown into a leader in fastener distribution, known for its extensive product range, exceptional service, and continuous innovation. Kanebridge has been a loyal supporter of the MWFA for forty-eight years. A staple at most events and top sponsoring contributor of MWFA events. Joe McGrath, owner of Kanebridge Corporation has valued the networking and educational aspect of what the MWFA brought to the industry. See page 13 for event photos.
MWFA SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS
$1,500 SCHOLARSHIPS
Marisa Vodicka, son of Bill and Gale Vodicka, MW Components. A junior at Coe College, Marisa is majoring in Elementary Education to pursue a career as an elementary school teacher with dreams of also coaching one day.
Brady Adelman, son of Greg Adelman, of Integrated Packaging. Brady is a freshman at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he’s working towards his undergraduate degree in Accounting. He plans to continue his education by pursuing a Master’s degree and eventually sitting for the CPA exam to become a certified accountant.
Luke Veech, son of Michael Veech of Nucor Fasteners, is a senior at St. Xavier High School. A decorated student, Luke has set his sights on pursuing a double major in Business and Broadcasting/ Sports Journalism, combining his academic excellence with a passion for storytelling and sports.
Haley Ronk, daughter of Jim Ronk of Endries International. Haley is a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with aspirations of building a career in healthcare. Following her graduation in May 2025, she plans to further her education by attending dental school, where she hopes to turn her passion for helping others into a lifelong profession.
Ryan Strieter, son of Vicki Strieter of GF&D System. Ryan is a junior at Concordia University, majoring in Sports and Business Entertainment. He has a passion for the sports industry and dreams of working with one of Milwaukee’s major league teams.
graduate in May 2025 and aims to continue her education at Aurora University for her Master’s degree.
$2,000 BIG BOLT SCHOLARSHIP
Wyatt Titus, son of Christina Titus of Issco Inc. Wyatt is a dedicated third-year Doctor of Physical Therapy student at Missouri State University, building on his strong foundation from Truman State University, where he completed his undergraduate degree. With a passion for improving patient care, Wyatt aims to leverage his doctorate to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field.
Fletch Titus, son of Christina Titus of Issco Inc. Fletch is a sophomore at Missouri State University, majoring in Agriculture Business Finance Management. With a strong passion for the farming industry, he aims to leverage his degree to focus on the equipment sector and address its unique needs.
$2,000 DELTA SECONDARY SCHOLARSHIP
The scholarship has been granted to Monserrat Lopez, the daughter of Matias Lopez of Davies Molding Monserrat is currently a Senior at Elmhurst University, where she is pursuing a double major in Psychology and Spanish, along with a minor in Latino Studies. She plans to
The scholarship has been granted to Victoria Weaver, daughter of Gerald Weaver of Ken Forging Inc. Victoria is a second-year student at Mercyhurst University, pursuing studies in both Intelligence Studies and Political Science, along with a pre-law concentration. Her academic focus is on political theory and understanding policy making.
$2,000 MIKE & CAROL O’CONNOR SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship is awarded to Stephanie Castillo, an employee at SWD INC. Stephanie is pursuing her undergraduate degree in Human Resources while working in the HR department. She is dedicated to advancing her knowledge and skills in this field as she continues to grow professionally.
$2,000 FASTENER FAIR SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship is awarded to Nicole Polak, daughter of Pawel Polak of Gateway Screws & Rivet. Nicole attends Illinois Wesleyan University pursuing a degree in Biology with a pre-dental focus. After graduation, she plans to apply to dental school to advance in the dental field and improve care using her knowledge. »»»
MWFA SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS
$2,000 CONTINENTAL-AERO SCHOLARSHIP
undergraduate degree, including medicine, fashion design, and architecture.
This scholarship is awarded to Laney Haines, daughter of Tracy Haines of ICS Flange. Laney is a dedicated student at Utah State University, pursuing a major in Marketing and a minor in Graphic Design. With a passion for creativity and strategy, she envisions opening her own Brand Design firm in the future.
$2,000 INTEGRATED PACKAGING SCHOLARSHIP
$2,500 SWD INC. SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship is awarded to McKenna Eichmeier, an employee of Endries International. McKenna is currently in her third year at Carroll University, where she is pursuing a degree in Health Sciences with an emphasis on Radiologic Technology and a minor in Psychology. She aspires to become a Radiologic Technologist.
This scholarship is awarded to Nayeli Contreras, daughter of Artemio Contreras of SWD Inc. Nayeli is a senior at Walter Payton College Preparatory School, preparing to embark on her journey at Boston University this fall. She plans to focus her studies on Sociology and Education, with a keen interest in pre-law.
$2,000 ABBOTT INTERFAST SCHOLARSHIP
$3,000 SOUTH HOLLAND METAL FINISHING/BRIAN CHRISTIANSON SCHOLARSHIP
Metal Finishing. Colten is a Biomedical Engineering student at the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is passionate about applying his knowledge to create impactful solutions in the medical field.
$4,000 BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship is awarded Devin Estacio, son of Herbert Estacio of Liberty Fasteners. Devin is a senior at Niles West High School and a distinguished student, recognized as a member of the National Honor Society. He is exploring various fields of study for his
This scholarship is awarded to Lindsey Weaver, daughter of Gerald Weaver of Ken Forging Inc. Lindsey is currently completing her Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy at Slippery Rock University. She has been accepted into the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at Slippery Rock and plans to specialize in pediatric occupational therapy, focusing on supporting children with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
$3,00 RICHARD S. PISKOTY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by Clarcorp Industrial Sales)
This scholarship is awarded to Colten Palkon, son of David Palkon of South Holland
This scholarship is awarded to Kaylie Adelman, daughter of Greg Adelman of Integrated Packaging. Kaylie is a first-year student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she is focusing on Consumer Behavior and Marketplace Studies. With a keen interest in business, marketing, and psychology, she aspires to build a career in marketing.
$4,000 RAUL TORRES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by Star Stainless Screw)
The scholarship is presented to Tanner Borowski, son of Larry and Sheila of Greenslade & Company.
Tanner is a senior at Burleson High School, where he has excelled as a member of the National Honor Society for four years, served on student council, and actively participated in numerous clubs and organizations. He plans to pursue a degree in Engineering, with interests in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, or Environmental disciplines. »»»
MWFA SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS
$4,000 NANCY RICH SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by Mid-West Fastener Association)
The scholarship is awarded to Jaylen Estacio, son of Herbert Estacio of Liberty Fasteners. Jaylen is a senior at Niles West High School, where he has distinguished himself as an accomplished student, earning honors such as membership in the National Honor Society and consistently making the High Honor Roll. He plans to major in Biology in college, with the long-term goal of becoming a Physician Assistant.
$5,500 XL SCREW CORPORATION SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship is awarded to Emily Brandt, daughter of Stephanie Brandt of Lindfast Solutions Group. At Legacy Christian Academy, Emily excelled as a four-year varsity golfer and was a proud member of the National Honor Society. She is eager to pursue a degree in International Business, with a focus on Economics and International Relations. Emily aspires to secure an executive role in either business or government.
AS WE START THE NEW YEAR, WE WISH ALL OF OUR MEMBERS, FASTENER FRIENDS, AND FAMILIES A HEALTHY, SAFE, HAPPY, AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR. LET’S ENJOY 2025 TOGETHER AT MWFA EVENTS.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 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.
» Abbott-Interfast
» All American Systems
» Arlington Fastener
» Avante Imports
» Big Bolt, LLC
» Brico Industries, Inc.
» Brighton-Best International
» Brikksen
» BTM Manufacturing
» Central Wire
» Certified Products
» Chicago Hardware & Fixture Co.
» Clarcorp Industrial Sales
» Component Technologies International
» Continental-Aero
» Crescent Manufacturing
» Crystal Engineering
» Darling Bolt Co.
» Delta Secondary
» Earnest Machine
» EFC International
» Eurolink FSS
» Greenslade & Company
» Hercules Bolt
» Inland Fastener, Inc.
» Integrated Packaging
» J&M Plating, Inc.
» Kanebridge Corporation
» Ken Forging
» Liberty Fastener Company
» Metric & Multistandard Components
» Morgan Ohare, Inc.
» Mike and Carol O’Connor
» North East Fasteners Corp.
» Riverdale Plating & Heat Treating
» Screws Industries Inc.
» Sems and Specials, Inc.
» South Holland Metal Finishing
» SPIROL International
» Star Stainless Screw
» Stelfast Fasteners
» SWD Inc.
» Three J’s Industies, Inc.
» Tru-Pack
» Wafios Machinery Corporation
» Wing-Hamlin Company, Inc.
» Wrought Washer Mfg., Inc
» XL Screw Corporation
* Bold indicates a company or personal sponsorship
MWFA 2024 HOLIDAY PARTY RECAP
On December 12th 2024, the MidWest Fastener Association gathered for an unforgettable evening at the beautiful Medinah Banquet Hall in Addison, Illinois, for our annual Holiday Party. This year’s event was a perfect blend of celebration, community spirit, and gratitude. Guests enjoyed the lively casino setup, where the stakes were fun and friendly. Participants could trade in their winnings for entries into some incredible raffle prizes, adding an exciting twist to the evening’s festivities. The energy was palpable as attendees tried their luck, cheered one another on, and left the casino tables with smiles and prizes in hand.
One of the evening’s most cherished highlights was our continued support of Toys for Tots. Thanks to the generosity of our members and attendees, we filled an astounding eight bins with toys and raised over $1,300 in donations. For yet another year, MWFA proudly earned the distinction of being the #1 donor for the DuPage County Toys for Tots chapter. This incredible achievement reflects the spirit of giving that defines our community during the holiday season.
In addition to the festivities, the evening also marked important milestones for MWFA. We welcomed and introduced our 2025 Board of Directors, who will guide us into another
successful year. At the same time, we bid heartfelt farewells to two of our long-serving board members, Rich Cavoto and Wayne Wishnew. Their dedication, leadership, and countless contributions over the years have left a lasting impact on the MWFA. We are deeply grateful for their service and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
The 2024 Holiday Party was a resounding success, thanks to the support of our members, sponsors, and volunteers. It was a night to remember, full of laughter, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to making a difference. Here’s to a wonderful holiday season and an exciting year ahead for MWFA!
2025 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE
The 2025 MWFA Scholarship is available online at www.mwfa.net (under scholarships). 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 $4,000.
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.
HOLIDAY PARTY PHOTO BOOTH FUN
MWFA MAILBOX
We appreciate the time our Scholarship recipients have taken to write to us in response to their awards. Here are some of the fantastic letters that we have received.
Dear Mid-West Fastener Association,
»» “I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude to the MWFA for awarding me a scholarship on behalf of my essay and application. This generous support means so much to me and has significantly lightened the financial burden of my education. It is truly inspiring to know that MWFA is dedicated to supporting students like me as we strive to achieve our academic and professional goals.
Personally, I am committed to working hard and making the most of this opportunity, as it has urged me to continue doing my best and striving for more each and every day, so thank you--once again for this generosity and support”
Nicole Polak
»» “Thank you for awarding me the MWFA scholarship. I greatly appreciate your generosity in supporting my education as I pursue a degree in occupational therapy at Slippery Rock University. I am pursing my Bachelors of Science in Recreational Therapy and Doctor of Occupational Therapy degrees. After graduation I plan to work as a pediatric occupational therapist with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities”
Lindsey Weaver
»» “I wanted to express my thanks for being considered and chosen to receive one of this year’s MFWA Scholarships. I greatly appreciate being selected as a recipient this
year and I am looking forward to continuing my education in radiologic technology with the help of this scholarship”
McKenna Eichmeier
»» “Thank you for the scholarship! It will help me as I continue my education at Concordia University- Wisconsin!”
Ryan Strieter
»» “I am beyond grateful for the very generous scholarship from MWFA – thank you so much! The scholarship will go a long way in helping me achieve my dreams through my college education.”
Emily Brandt
»» “I am deeply grateful for being awarded this generous scholarship. It will greatly assist me as I complete my final year of Physical Therapy school and work toward earning my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Your support will help ease the financial burden of tuition, allowing me to focus more fully on my clinical internships and provide patient-centered care without the added stress of financial concerns.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Jake Davis, President of ISSCO and BTM Manufacturing, for sponsoring me for this scholarship. Your support means so much, and I truly appreciate your belief in my future as a healthcare professional.
Thank you once again for your generosity and for your ongoing dedication to supporting the futures of students like me. Your commitment makes a significant impact.”
Wyatt Titus
»» “ I wanted to reach out and extent my appreciation for the scholarship I received last night. The award is greatly appreciated by my family and I, who plan to use the funding to further my education in the field of business. Attending the event was a great honor, and it was exciting to get a further glimpse into the field my father is so dedicated to.”
Emily Kovatch
»» “ I am one of the recipients for the MWFA Scholarships and wanted to thank you for choosing me. This scholarship will allow me to save a good amount of money next semester that I can further use for grad school. I really appreciate the time you took to look over my application and for choosing me as the recipient. Attached I have a picture that can be used for the program that you are making.”
Haley Ronk
»» “ I want to thank you for your generosity in funding this scholarship. Your contribution to my education will allow me to focus on my studies and lighten my financial burden as I pursue my degree in Consumer Behavior and Marketplace Studies. I am extremely grateful and honored to be the recipient of this scholarship and one day I hope to be able to pay it forward and help others as you have helped me. Thank you again.”
Kaylie Adelman
MWFA MAILBOX
»» “I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for naming me as one of your scholarship recipients for 2024. I was thrilled to learn of my selection and I am deeply appreciative of your support.
Your financial assistance will help me to pursue my degree in accounting and allow me to focus more of my energy on my studies. Thank you again for your generosity.”
Brady Adelman
»» “Thank you so much for choosing me as a winner for the MWFA Scholarship! This was the first scholarship I’ve ever gotten and I can promise you it is not going to waste! I’ve already sent my college applications in and with your scholarship my future of Texas A&M, UTA, Syracuse, or Stanford are looking bright! Thank you.”
Tanner Borowski
»» “Thank you so much for the very generous scholarship award. I am a freshman at the University of Dayton and majoring in Marketing. This scholarship truly means so much to me and I assure you that I will make the most of my academic career over the next four years.”
Luke Veech
»» “MWFA, thank you for offering and awarding me this scholarship, your generosity is greatly appreciated! I am extremely grateful for the opportunity that you have provided me this will assist me in my pursuit of an Agriculture Business Finance Management degree tremendously.”
Fletch Titus
»» “My name is Laney Haines, and I am the daughter of Tracy Haines from ICS. I
just received a scholarship and wanted to express how grateful I am for your support. Your investment in my education is sincerely appreciated, and I’m excited to continue working hard toward my academic and career goals. Thank you for your generosity.”
Laney Haines
»» “Receiving this scholarship is a tremendous honor and a significant support for my educational journey. Your generosity has inspired me to continue to strive for excellence in my studies and future endeavors. A special thanks to Francesca Lewis and the rest of the board at MWFA for your belief in my potential and for providing me with this incredible opportunity. I am committed to making the most of it and hope to give back to the community in meaningful ways.”
Colten Palkon
»» “I am deeply grateful for the scholarship that MWFA has awarded me. This generous support will enable me to focus on my education and participate in extracurricular activities. That enrich my college experience. Your belief in my potential inspires me to work hard and achieve my academic and future career goals. Including going to law school and eventually representing foster children within the child welfare system. I am committed to making the most out of the opportunities this scholarship has
allowed me to capitalize on. Thank you once again for your kindness and support.”
Victoria Weaver
»» “I’d like to sincerely thank you for the opportunity. I’m grateful that my academic talents and efforts have both been recognized and we use this award as not only an opportunity to pursue my goals and dreams but as well as a reminder to keep working hard and strive for greatness, thank you once again for recommending my efforts and for grant me a better opportunity to achieve my goals.”
Devin Estacio
»» “Thank you for recognizing my academic efforts and giving me the opportunity to be successful in my future education I’m very grateful to be granted the scholarship, for it will be put towards reaching my goal of being a licensed metal medical practitioner hopefully, in dermatology this award, not only grant me financial aid, but it serves as a milestone in my career that inspires me to keep pursuing my goals and desires. Thank you for this incredible opportunity.”
Jaylen Estacio
»» “It is a great honor to receive your generous scholarship, which will help fund my education at Elmhurst University. I most grateful for your belief and support and I want to thank you for choosing me. With the scholarship, I am one step closer to realizing my dreams. Your investment in my future is not just a gift but a catalyst for my academic and professional growth. I’m excited for the opportunities to scholarship will enable, and I’m committed to making the most of them thank you once again for your generous and thoughtful support. “
Monserrat Lopez
FASTENER SHOW, TRAINING, NETWORKING AND RECREATION - ALL IN ONE WEEK!
The MWFA is thrilled to announce the 4th annual FSTNR Week, taking place August 24th -27th, 2025, at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort in Lincolnshire, IL. Building on the incredible success of last year, this highly anticipated event promises an exceptional week of opportunities to bring the fastener industry together.
The 43rd MWFA Fastener Show and 72nd MWFA Golf Outing will again take advantage of this premier venue. Attendees will enjoy the convenience of staying on-site for all events, minimizing travel and maximizing networking opportunities. Located just 18
miles from O’Hare International Airport, the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort boasts outstanding amenities, including multiple dining options, indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, spa, theatre, and more.
2025 FSTNR Week Highlights:
• August 24: Sleep in Heavenly Peace Bed Build
• August 25: Welcome Mixer
• August 26: Education Class, Tabletop Show and Fastener Bash
• August 27: Annual Golf Outing
Stay tuned for detailed schedules, exciting additions, and more ways to connect and grow within the fastener industry. For the latest updates, visit www.mwfa.net.
Remembering Ross Arthur Shepard
It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of Ross Arthur Shepard of Deerfield, IL, on December 2, 2024, at the age of 65. Ross was an active member of the Mid-West Fastener Association (MWFA) and a former board member, contributing his time and expertise to our community.
Ross was born on June 2, 1959, to Leonard and Sharon Shepard. From an early age, he displayed a natural warmth and ease in connecting with others, forming friendships wherever he went. Growing up in Deerfield, he shared
countless adventures and mischief with his three siblings and childhood friends.
A proud graduate of Deerfield High School in 1977, Ross went on to attend Coe College in Cedar Rapids, IA. In 1988, he married Margaret Wittlinger, the love of his life, to whom he was unwaveringly devoted. Their marriage was a testament to love and partnership.
Professionally, Ross dedicated many years to his role as a sales manager at Alfa Tools. His commitment to excellence and his personable nature left a lasting impact on colleagues and clients alike.
Outside of work, Ross embraced life with enthusiasm. He was an avid golfer, a master of crossword puzzles, and a lover of music, frequently attending concerts at Ravinia. Known for his quick wit and clever puns, he had a unique ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him.
Ross’s kindness and generosity extended beyond his immediate circle. He deeply cared for his family, friends, and the MWFA community, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
AFC INDUSTRIES HAS ACQUIRED ONTARIO BASED IRWIN INDUSTRIAL
AFC Industries has acquired Ontario based Irwin Industrial (www.irwin-ind. com), terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Founded in 1970, IRWIN has become a trusted partner for manufacturers across Canada, renowned for its innovative supply chain solutions and exceptional customer service. Specializing in customized vendormanaged inventory programs and supply chain solutions for unique components, IRWIN delivers tailored solutions that drive efficiency for customers across a broad range of industries.
Irwin owner and president Glenn Irwin said, “We are excited to join the AFC team. We see in them the same perseverance, commitment to exceptional service, and values that are at the core of how we approach our customer relationships. I am confident that together we will be able to continue to grow and to do it the right way.”
AFC CEO Kevin Godin added, “Canada is an important market for us and we recognized we would need additional resources and infrastructure in Canada for it to reach its full potential. We were looking for a Canadian partner whose culture and approach to the business would fit well with ours. Irwin quickly rose to the top of the list, and we are thankful to be able to add them to the AFC family.”
AFC Industries is a leading provider of supply chain solutions, specializing in Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI), customengineered components, and value-added services. With a strong commitment to streamlining operations and reducing total cost of ownership, AFC partners with manufacturers and assemblers across a wide range of industries, serving them from over 100 locations in 8 countries worldwide. Backed by a global network and a commitment to excellence, AFC delivers tailored solutions that enhance efficiency, drive innovation, and build lasting partnerships.
For more information contact AFC Industries by Tel: 513-874-7456, Email: sales@ afcind.com or online at www.afcind.com.
BRIKKSEN EXPANDS PRODUCT LINE WITH USA-MADE STAINLESS STEEL FLAT WASHERS
Brikksen, a trusted name in stainless and brass fasteners, is proud to announce the addition of stainless steel flat washers to their product lineup.
These washers are available in 18-8 and 316 stainless steel, meeting commercial standards while being both melted and manufactured in the USA—a testament to Brikksen’s ongoing commitment to service their customers, now with an option for domestic material
For customers requiring traceability, certifications are available upon request. This new addition reinforces Brikksen’s position as a reliable source for premium fastener solutions.
We are committed to providing the highest quality stainless products and the most competitive pricing in the industry.
For more information contact Brikksen by Tel: 1-800-962-1614, Email: sales@ brikksen.com or online at www.brikksen.com.
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.
Remembering Lynn Johansen
Sharon “Lynn” Johansen passed away peacefully on October 31st, 2024, surrounded by her family, after a battle with cancer. Lynn was born on October 30th, 1947, in Melrose Park, IL, to Harry Fetzer and Florence Leonhardt. Lynn was the youngest of three children, the late Darlene Stroman and Harry “Butch” Fetzer Jr.
She was preceded in death by her husband and the love of her life, the late William B. Johansen. They were married for 39 years before Bill’s passing. Lynn
had five children: Sandra (Pete) Girard, Debbra L. Johansen, William (Michelle) Johansen, Eric (Parveen) Johansen, and Kirk (Kimberly) Johansen. She also had seven grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. Her family was her greatest joy, and her home was always a haven of love—a place where her family could go for advice and share a cup of coffee. Lynn loved cooking for anyone who stopped by, and her meals were treasured by all.
Lynn was a part of the fastener industry for nearly 50 years, working
for Darling Bolt and most recently Nova Machine Products. She served as a dedicated board member of the MidWest Fastener Association (previously the Chicago Bolt & Nut Association) and was deeply committed to the industry. She was well-known and highly respected by her peers, attending numerous fastener functions, including dinners, shows, and meetings. Lynn was an amazing board member who cared deeply for the industry and its people. She will be forever missed by all in the fastener community.
MWFA WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
KING STEEL CORPORATION
For over 50 years, King Steel Corporation has been a leading source for steel products, serving companies across North America with high-quality materials to meet their needs. Through consistent investment in new equipment and process improvements, King Steel has built a strong reputation for growth, professionalism, and exceptional value for both customers and suppliers. Guided by their five principles of excellence—making better buys, selling competitively, delivering flexibility, providing exceptional service, and offering better customization—King Steel ensures they deliver exactly what their customers need, when and where it’s needed. Whether your project requires specialized solutions, custom specifications, or flexible delivery,
King Steel is equipped to meet your demands.
To learn more about their innovative processes and services, visit them online at www.kingsteelcorp.com
JAY-CEE SALES & RIVET
Founded in 1948, Jay-Cee Sales & Rivet has grown from a small army surplus store in Detroit to the nation’s largest in-stock supplier of rivets, rivet tools, and specialty fasteners. With over 35,000 square feet of space and 9 million pounds of inventory, they proudly offer any type of rivet, any size, and any metal to meet customer needs.
As a 4th-generation family business, Jay-Cee Sales remains committed to innovation and excellence, serving end users and distributors with a vast selection of products and unmatched expertise.
To learn more, visit them online at www.rivetsinstock.com.
ROGAN CORPORATION
Founded in 1934, Rogan Corporation has grown into a global leader in injection molding, specializing in two-shot injection molding, insert molding, decorating, and assembly. They manufacture reliable knobs, fasteners, and custom molded components for industries ranging from aerospace to household appliances.
Operating out of their 42,000 sq. ft. ISO 9001:2015 certified facility, Rogan is committed to innovation and delivering a competitive edge to their customers.
To learn more, visit them online at www.rogancorp.com.
MEMBERSHIP DUES
Members, don’t forget membership dues need to be paid by February 15th in order to have your company listing published in our annual Membership Directory.
We hope you’ll consider adding a scholarship donation to your payment. Due to your generosity, the Scholarship program has helped hundreds of students. We look forward to bringing you a year of informative and beneficial programs.
2025 EVENTS CALENDAR
February 13 February Meeting
Venuti’s Restaurant, Addison, IL
March 20 Fascination with Fasteners
April - TBD April Dinner Meeting
April 24 Heat Treating & Plating Class SWD, Addison, IL
May 22 6th Annual Screwed Up Open White Pines Golf Course, Elmhurst, IL
May 28-29 Fastener Fair Nashville, TN
July 30 Milwaukee Meeting- Brewers Game Milwaukee, WI
August 23-29 FSTNR Week (Fastener Show, Training, Networking, Recreation) Marriot Lincolnshire, Lincolnshite, IL
August 23 Tough Mudder
August 24 Sleep In Heavenly Peace Bed Build
August 25 MWFA Welcome Mixer
August 26 Fastener Failure Seminar
August 26 Tabletop Show
August 27 Golf Outing
August 25-29 Fastener Training Week
September 15-17 International Fastener Expo Las Vegas, NV
November 13 Scholarship Awards, Hall of Fame & Board Elections
December 11 Holiday Party
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 75 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
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.net www.mwfa.net
THE OPPORTUNITY
For advertising and press opportunities in the MWFA newsletter, contact the editor.
Francesca Lewis Editor Email: mwfa@mwfa.net
