Mid-West Fastener Association
CELEBRATING 79 YEARS COMMITMENT TO THE FASTENER INDUSTRY FALL 2025
CELEBRATING 2025 FSTNR WEEK: A SUPER WEEK OF CONNECTION, COLLABORATION, AND COMMUNITY
FSTNR Week 2025 once again brought the fastener industry together for an unforgettable week of networking, education, and giving back—celebrating the strength of our community from start to finish.
The week unofficially kicked off on Saturday, August 23rd, when the Rugged Nuts team took on the Tough Mudder in Rockford, Illinois. This spirited group of industry professionals tackled the muddy obstacle course together, showing off their teamwork, endurance, and sense of adventure. After conquering the course, they celebrated their success with a well-earned team lunch—setting the tone for a week centered on camaraderie and connection.
On Sunday, August 24th, MWFA members and volunteers came together for one of the week’s most meaningful events— the annual Sleep in Heavenly Peace Bed Build. Partnering once again with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, more than 100 volunteers gathered at the Marriott Lincolnshire to build 100 beds for
children in need. The day was filled with teamwork, laughter, and community spirit. Volunteers stayed fueled thanks to Cheesie’s Food Truck, sponsored by Brighton-Best International, and cooled off with treats from an ice cream truck, generously sponsored by Integrated Packaging.
The excitement continued on Monday, August 25th, as attendees participated in exclusive plant tours at Tri-Star Industries and SWD Inc. These visits offered a behind-the-scenes look at industry-leading operations and allowed participants to see the precision and innovation that drive the fastener world. »»
TURN TO PAGE 3 FOR MORE FSTNR WEEK ROUNDUP, PLUS A THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS
NOTE FROM OUR PRESIDENT
INTEGRATED PACKAGING & FASTENER
Happy Fall MWFA Members!!
As the leaves start to turn and the year begins to wind down, I can’t help but reflect on how much we’ve accomplished together this year. From our summer events, along with an incredible FSTNR Week to the connections made throughout the industry, it’s been an amazing year of growth, collaboration, and community.
Our Hall of Fame this year will bring together both long-time members and new faces — a great reminder of how strong and vibrant our association remains. Congratulations to all our scholarship winners, Hall of Fame Inductees, and Brighton Best International as this year’s company into the Hall of fame. The MWFA will be awarding over $60,000 in scholarships this year and we have exceeded $1 million dollars to date. We look forward to Rudy Ruettiger as our guest speaker this year. His story of perseverance
and determination is sure to inspire us all.
As we look ahead, our Holiday Party & Toys for Tots Drive is on December 11th, is right around the corner — one of my favorite MWFA traditions. It’s a time not only to celebrate another successful year, but to give back to those in need. I hope to see everyone come together for a night of fun, laughter, and generosity. We will be collecting toys so please bring an unwrapped gift for the kids!
On a personal note, serving as your MWFA President this year has been an honor. I continue to be amazed by the passion and dedication within our community — from our board members to our volunteers
to every company that supports MWFA’s mission. We’ve faced challenges, but we’ve done it together, and that’s what makes this group so special.
Let’s finish the year strong and continue building the foundation for a great 2026. Thank you for being part of this incredible organization and for all you do to make our industry thrive.
Wishing you a wonderful fall season filled with success, connection, and maybe even a little pumpkin spice.
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
On Monday evening, members and guests gathered at Three Embers Restaurant for the Welcome Mixer, a relaxed networking event featuring live music, great food, and outdoor fire pits. It was the perfect opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new ones as the week’s activities ramped up.
Tuesday, August 26th, began with the IFI/Chicago Federal Reserve Breakfast, a new collaboration that provided valuable insight into the manufacturing and economic outlook for the fastener industry. Later that morning, exhibitors joined together for a pre-show lunch, setting the stage for the highly anticipated MWFA Tabletop Show, which featured more than 100 exhibitors showcasing the latest in fastener products, technologies, and services. The show floor
buzzed with energy as attendees engaged with vendors, forged new partnerships, and explored innovative solutions across the industry.As the show concluded, guests transitioned into the Superhero Bash, where themed cocktails, photo opportunities, and entertainment created a lively, celebratory atmosphere. »» continued on page 7
CELEBRATING FSTNR WEEK
The week wrapped up on Wednesday, August 27th, with the 71st MWFA Golf Outing at Crane’s Landing Golf Club. More than 140 golfers enjoyed a day of sunshine, friendly competition, and oncourse contests. The outing concluded with a cocktail hour and awards presentation, giving everyone the chance to unwind, connect, and celebrate another successful MWFA tradition.
Throughout the week, the Fastener Training Institute hosted its Fastener Training Week, where participants worked toward earning their Certified Fastener Specialist™ credentials. This educational
program continues to be a cornerstone of FSTNR Week, reinforcing MWFA’s commitment to supporting professional development within the fastener industry.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all of the sponsors, exhibitors, attendees, and volunteers who made 2025 FSTNR Week an incredible success. Your enthusiasm,
support, and dedication continue to make this event one of the highlights of the year.
We’re already gearing up for an even bigger celebration in 2026— MWFA’s 80th Anniversary at Navy Pier!
To enjoy pictures from of all events and get more information on future events, visit www.mwfa.net
THANK YOU FSTNR WEEK ‘FULL EVENT’ SPONSORS
FSTNR Week was an amazing event. Thank you to everyone who participated in making it an industry success. Thank you to our FSTNR Week Sponsors who sponsored all events throughout the week. We are already looking forward to next year’s event - if you would like to become a sponsor of Fastener Week ‘26, please contact Francesca Lewis at mwfa@mwfa.net for more details.
THANK YOU ‘EVENT’ SPONSORS
SHOW/BASH SPONSORS
» Goebel Fasteners
» J&M Plating
» Sems and Specials
» USI Insurance
» Vogelsang
» Wyandotte Industries
GOLF SPONSORS
» Abbott Interfast
» Avante Imports
» Beacon Fasteners & Components
» Brighton-Best International
» BTM Manufacturing
» Buckeye Fasteners
» Cavanaugh Government Group
» Central Wire
» Certified Fasteners
» Crescent Manufacturing
» EWMenn
» Fascomp Electronic Hardware
» Fastener Solutions Group
» FPM Heat Treating
» Goebel Fasteners
» Infasco
» Integrated Packaging
» Intercorp
» J & M Plating
» Kanebridge Corporation
» Ken Forging
» Kerr Lakeside
» Lindfast Solutions Group
» Metric & Multistandard
» Morgan Ohare
» ND Industries
» NOF Metals
» Parker Fasteners
» Sems and Specials
» Star Stainless Screw
» Surface Combustion
» SWD Inc.
» Volt Industrial Plastics
» Wafios
» Wing-Hamlin
» XL Screw Corporation
FASTENER BASH PHOTOS
EVENT RECAP: MWFA @ BREWERS vs CUBS!
The Mid-West Fastener Association hit it out of the park once again with our annual Brewers vs. Cubs outing—and not even a little rain could stop the fun!
For the second year in a row, MWFA members and guests gathered for a lively pregame tailgate in the Yount Lot, where the smell of grilled food, the sound of laughter, and the clink of coolers set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Even as summer showers passed through, our group stayed
in high spirits—popping up tents, pulling out umbrellas, and turning the rain into just another reason to laugh and connect.
Once the gates opened, everyone made their way to the Johnsonville Party Deck, where the energy carried right into the stands. With all-inclusive food, drinks, and a fantastic view of the field, members enjoyed a perfect mix of baseball, networking, and camaraderie. The friendly rivalry between Brewers and Cubs fans
added an extra spark to the night, making every inning that much more exciting.
A huge thank you to all who joined us and helped make this event another home run. Whether cheering for the Brewers, the Cubs, or simply for great company, one thing’s for sure—the MWFA knows how to have fun, rain or shine!
We can’t wait to keep this tradition going and see everyone back at the ballpark next season!
FASTENER SHOW
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
» Big Bolt LLC
» 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
» Crown Screw & Bolt Corporation
» Crystal Engineering
» Darling Bolt Co.
» DarLoc Corporation
» Delta Secondary
» Fall River Manufacturing
» G-Fast Distribution Inc
» Greenslade & Company
» Hariton Machinery Co. Inc.
» Integrated Packaging
» J&M Plating, Inc.
» Kanebridge Corporation
» Ken Forging
» Manten
» Metric & Multistandard Components
» North East Fasteners Corp.
» Screws Industries Inc.
» Sems and Specials, Inc.
» Solution Industries
» South Holland Metal Finishing
» SPIROL International
» Star Stainless
» Stelfast Fasteners
» SWD Inc.
» Tru-Pack
» Wafios
» Wing-Hamlin Company, Inc.
» Wrought Washer Mfg., Inc
» XL Screw Corporation
* Bold indicates a company or personal sponsorship
EVENT RECAP: PICKLEBALL NETWORKING EVENT
The MWFA served up a night of fun, competition, and connection at our first-ever Pickleball Networking Event held at Pickle Haus in Algonquin! The courts were buzzing with energy as members and industry peers rallied, laughed, and built new connections over a few friendly matches. Whether you were a seasoned player or a first-timer, the spirit of camaraderie made for an unforgettable evening.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors—Metric & Multistandard, Abbott Interfast, Sems & Specials, American Commercial Bank & Trust, SWD, and AFI— for making this event possible. Your support helped us bring together a fantastic group of fastener professionals for an engaging and entertaining night both on and off the court.
Beyond the games, the event offered a relaxed environment to share ideas,
strengthen partnerships, and welcome new faces into the MWFA community. Events like these continue to showcase the enthusiasm and strong bonds within the fastener industry—proof that networking can be both productive and a great time!
We can’t wait to see everyone again at our next MWFA event as we continue to build connections, grow our network, and have a little fun along the way.
2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES ANNOUNCED
HONORING DEDICATION, LEADERSHIP, AND LEGACY
The Mid-West Fastener Association is proud to announce its 2025 Hall of Fame inductees. Each of these honorees has made a profound and lasting impact on the fastener industry and our association. Their commitment, leadership, and service embody the values the MWFA stands for.
WAYNE WISHNEW began his fastener journey 47 years ago when he joined XL Screw in 1978, starting out in the warehouse. After a few injuries and some sage advice from MWFA Hall of Famer Bob Sachs, Wayne transitioned into inventory control—and quickly became an invaluable asset to the company. Over the years, he moved into sales and eventually became Vice President. According to Sachs, Wayne treats every customer like he owns the company. When customers have a need, they don’t call XL Screw—they call Wayne. His rapport, professionalism, and dedication are unmatched, and his loyalty to both XL Screw and the MWFA is unwavering. Wayne was nominated to the CBNSA 18 years ago and played an active role in its transition into the MWFA. Until recently,
he served on the MWFA board, where his wit and insight are deeply missed. Over the years, he’s served as President, Vice President, and on nearly every committee. He spent 14 years on the scholarship committee, generously donating his time and energy to the association. XL Screw, under Wayne’s influence, has been one of MWFA’s most philanthropic supporters, offering countless sponsorships and scholarship donations. Wayne has long championed the MWFA in the marketplace, encouraging participation in educational seminars, shows, and events. His tireless efforts, humble leadership, and genuine passion make him a worthy and deeply respected member of the Hall of Fame.
ROSS SHEPARD is being honored posthumously for his significant and heartfelt contributions to both Alfa Tools and the MWFA. Ross spent 32 years with Alfa Tools, beginning in 1995 and continuing until his retirement in 2022. Hired originally as a salesman, he was later promoted to Sales Manager and quickly became known for his unmatched communication skills and his ability to connect with anyone in the room. According to Alfa Tools Vice President Shaan
Ahluwalia, Ross had a rare talent for public speaking and was the kind of person who could build meaningful relationships with people across all levels of the industry. He worked tirelessly and always kept Alfa Tools closely engaged with MWFA activities and events.
Ross represented Alfa Tools at every MWFA Fastener Show, playing a direct role in helping grow the company’s presence and building new business through those connections. He served on the MWFA board for nine years, including a term as Secretary, and contributed to multiple committees during his tenure. Even after his retirement, Ross remained a familiar and welcome face at MWFA’s holiday events, continuing to show support for the association he held dear. He passed away in 2024, and at his funeral, his family and friends remembered him for his quick wit, sarcasm, and ability to make others laugh—qualities that made him equally beloved in business and in life. Ross Shepard was a special asset to the MWFA, and his posthumous induction into the Hall of Fame ensures his memory and legacy will live on. »»
2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES ANNOUNCED
BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL,
INC. (BBI) rounds out this year’s inductee class as our company honoree. Founded in 1925, BBI celebrates 100 years of excellence in 2025. From its humble beginnings to becoming the world’s largest independent industrial fastener wholesaler, BBI’s journey is one of vision, resilience, and commitment. The company has continually evolved with changing times, embraced innovation, and built strong partnerships. Their motto, “Together Everyone Achieves More,” perfectly captures the collaborative
spirit behind their success.
BBI has been a card-carrying MWFA member for more than four decades and is one of only six companies to have exhibited at every MWFA trade show and tabletop event since inception. Their support goes beyond presence—they’ve donated named scholarships, served in board leadership positions, and consistently contributed to the growth and success of the association. Multiple Brighton-Best employees have served as MWFA board members, trustees, and presidents. BBI has also been a Diamond Sponsor of FSTNR Week since the very beginning, reinforcing their commitment to the MWFA and the
industry at large. Their century-long legacy of excellence, service, and support makes them a most deserving recipient of Hall of Fame honors.
Congratulations to all of our 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees - Wayne Wishnew, Ross Shephard and Brighton-Best International, Inc. Your contributions have shaped the MWFA, supported the industry, and inspired us all.
We are honored to recognize your achievements in the 2025 MWFA Hall of Fame, and we look forward to celebrating you this coming November at our annual Hall of Fame and Scholarship Awards Dinner.
NEW MEMBERS
Boltwise is an AI-driven platform that streamlines and automates the quoting process for fasteners and industrial distributors, converting messy requests into ready bids without manual data entry. They serve as a supply-chain and sales enablement tool, helping companies reduce quoting time, improve part attribution, and expand into new product lines.
DynaBurr Chicago, Inc is a highvolume finishing specialist based in Northlake, Illinois, offering mechanical plating, galvanizing, metal deburring, and lubricative E-Tec services—all free of hydrogen embrittlement. Established in 1968, they serve industries such as automotive, electrical, marine, agriculture, and construction by providing precision surface treatments with quick lead times and high quality.
Expedite Testing Service is an A2LAaccredited materials testing laboratory that serves aerospace, military, and industrial clients. They perform evaluations of mechanical, chemical, corrosion, and structural properties to help verify
materials and components meet required specifications.
Hillsdale Terminal was founded in 1976 amd is a U.S. manufacturer of solderless crimp electrical terminals, splices, disconnects, and wiring accessories. The family-owned company supplies over 1,200 vendors and supports a wide range of wire connection needs for electrical and electronic applications.
JM Tor Par is a Houston-area/Mexicobased manufacturer of high-strength, hot-forged bolts, cap screws, and custom fasteners (from 1/2”to 3” diameter, lengths up to 48”), using 100% U.S.-melted steel for North American markets. They serve heavy industries—including oil & gas, construction, mining, and heavy machinery—offering fast quoting, short lead times, and full traceability under ISO 9001 systems.
Richard Manno Company is a U.S.based precision manufacturer specializing in
both standard and custom threaded and nonthreaded fasteners and components—such as shoulder screws, dowel pins, standoffs, and more. Their operations are AS9100D/ ISO 9001:2015 certified, and they support small prototypes through full production runs while complying with DFAR, RoHS, and REACH standards.
United Steel & Fasteners was founded in 1975 and based in Itasca, Illinois, is an ISOcertified manufacturer of fasteners (bolts, nuts, washers, pins, spikes, etc.) in sizes from 3/8”to 4-1/4”, serving diverse industries. Bay Standard Mfg. Their capabilities include threading (roll & cut), coating (galvanization, plating, Xylan), and customized special fasteners, with a strong railroad product division
ZMG Fasteners PLUS is a U.S.-based industrial distributor and merchandising company supplying fasteners, storage systems, display hardware, and related sourcing solutions. They operate an e-commerce platform and offer volume pricing, free shipping above thresholds, and branding/merchandising support to industrial customers.
READER’S CORNER
SIGNATURE ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT TO DISTRIBUTE GROVE PRODUCTS HOSE FITTINGS, ADAPTERS
Signature Engineered Solutions (SES), a provider of engineered fasteners and products for manufacturing and industrial applications, today announced its partnership as an exclusive distributor for Grove Products, a Wisconsin-based manufacturer and distributor of metal hose fittings and adapters.
“We’re pleased to add Grove’s high-quality fittings and adapters to our growing line of products,” said Reno Fricano, chief executive officer at Signature. “This partnership adds to our extensive supply chain network that offers the most sought-after fastener and engineered products in North America.”
Grove’s product line includes standard hose fittings and adapters. The company also provides custom fittings on request.
“We are excited to partner with Signature to expand the awareness and availability of our products,” said Tao Liu, president of Grove Products. “This agreement represents an important step in our growth strategy as we continue to strengthen our presence in North America.”
For more information contact Signature Engineered Solutions at 2640 White Oak Circle, Suite F, Aurora, IL 60502. Tel: 800-562-1959, Email: info@sigengineered.com or visit them online at www.sigengineered.com.
2025 EVENTS CALENDAR
Please refer to our website at www.mwfa.net for updates.
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 79 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
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