CELEBRATING
80 YEARS COMMITMENT TO THE FASTENER INDUSTRY WINTER 2026
HONORING LEGACY & INVESTING IN THE FUTURE: MWFA HALL OF FAME & SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS DINNER
On November 13, the Mid-West Fastener Association gathered at Belvedere Banquets for one of the most anticipated and meaningful events of the year—the MWFA Hall of Fame and Scholarship Awards Dinner. The evening brought together members, families, industry partners, and friends to celebrate excellence, recognize lasting contributions, and invest in the future of our industry.
This year’s Hall of Fame inductions honored three exceptional leaders who have made a lasting impact on both the MWFA and the fastener industry. Wayne Wishnew of XL Screw and Ross Shepard of Alfa Tools were inducted for their decades of dedication, leadership, and service to the association. In addition, Brighton-Best International was recognized as the Company Hall of Fame inductee, honoring its continued support, innovation, and strong partnership with the MWFA. Each induction was marked by heartfelt tributes that highlighted not only professional accomplishments, but also mentorship, integrity, and commitment to the fastener community.
Education and opportunity were also front and center as the MWFA proudly awarded 20 scholarships totaling more than $60,000 to outstanding students. These scholarships support a wide range of academic pursuits and career paths, reinforcing the association’s ongoing commitment to developing the next generation. Hearing directly from the students about their goals and aspirations served as a powerful reminder of the impact this program continues to make— made possible through the generosity of our members, sponsors, and donors.
Adding to the inspiration of the evening was our featured guest speaker, Rudy Ruettiger, whose remarkable life story inspired the film Rudy. His message of perseverance, determination, and believing in oneself resonated deeply with both students and industry professionals, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
Looking ahead, the MWFA is excited to build on this momentum as we approach a major milestone. In celebration of the MWFA’s 80th Anniversary, the association will launch the “Quest for 80”—an ambitious initiative with the goal of awarding $80,000 in scholarships for 2026. This effort reflects our continued commitment to education, opportunity, and the future of the fastener industry.
From start to finish, the evening was a true celebration—filled with gratitude, inspiration, and pride in our community. The MWFA extends its sincere thanks to our Hall of Fame inductees, scholarship recipients, sponsors, members, and guests who helped make this night so special. We look forward to an exciting year ahead as we honor our legacy and invest in the next generation. »»»
NOTE FROM OUR PRESIDENT
INTEGRATED
Happy 2026 MWFA Members!!
Happy 2026—and happy 80th anniversary to the MWFA!
I am truly looking forward to this milestone year, with so many exciting things planned. It is an honor to serve as your President during such a monumental year, and I can’t wait to see everyone throughout the full calendar of events ahead.
I would also like to take a moment to thank our Board of Directors for their continued hard work and dedication to the association. As we said goodbye to two outstanding board members after 20 years of service, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Bob Baer and David Gawlik. Your commitment, leadership, and passion over the past two decades have played a significant role in shaping the MWFA into what it is today, and we are incredibly
grateful for everything you have done.
Looking ahead, we will kick off the year in February by partnering with IFI for an exciting joint meeting event with National Association of Surface Finishers Chicago Midwest Chapter at Golfzon Social. This is one I am especially looking forward to and hope to see many of you there.
In March, we will host our annual Fascination with Fasteners program. I took this class over 20 years ago, and it remains fresh in my memory to this day. If you are new to the industry—or have employees who would benefit from this valuable training—I highly recommend attending.
The knowledge gained from this course is truly foundational and continues to provide value throughout your career.
Finally, please keep a close eye out for more details on future events and FSTNR Week 2026. In celebration of our 80th anniversary, this year’s event will be held downtown at Navy Pier—an exciting and fitting location for such a historic milestone.
I look forward to an incredible year together as we celebrate 80 years of the MWFA.
2026 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 Sam Lang - Certified Fastener
Directors
Jake Davis - BTM Manufacturing
Glen Brin - DarLoc Corporation
Cory Wing - Wing-Hamlin Co. Inc.
Matt Delawder - SWD Inc.
Ignacy Paprocki - Blue Ribbon Fastener
Alternates Jeff Kempka - GF&D Systems
Steve Payne - Parker Fasteners
Michael Naidenovich - AFI Industries
Executive Director Francesca Lewis
2026 MWFA PRESIDENT
Jill Lewis
PACKAGING & FASTENER
HONORARY NIGHT FOR OUR HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
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. »»
HONORARY NIGHT FOR OUR HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
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. See page 13 for event photos.
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
» Eurolink FSS
» 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
MWFA SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS
$1500 SCHOLARSHIPS
Donated by the Mid-West Fastener Association
Awarded to Bennett Ksicinski, son of Brian Ksicinski of Endries International, is studying at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point and pursuing a career in Education.
Awarded to Kenzi Hinckley, daughter of D. Scott Hinckley of Cable Ties Unlimited, is a senior at Williamsburg Academy and plans to attend Utah Valley University, where she will study Digital Marketing with a minor in Sports Management.
Awarded to Paige Benson, daughter of Jason Benson of AFC/ Cline Tool, is a freshman at Central College, pursuing a degree in Communications with plans to build a career in Event Planning.
$2000 COMPONENT TECHNOLOGIES
INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Component Technologies
Awarded to Lola Rivera, daughter of Crystal Rivera of AFC/Cline Tool. Lola is a freshman at Grand View University, pursuing a degree in Business with a concentration in Professional Sales.
$2000 3Q INC. SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by 3Q Inc.
Awarded to Macy Cline, daughter of Jake Cline of C&R Plating. Macy is a freshman
at Kansas State University, exploring studies in Kinesiology, Nutrition, or Marketing.
$2000 MIKE & CAROL O’CONNOR SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Mike & Carol O’Connor
Awarded to Olivia Paukner, daughter of Jason Paukner of Atlas Fastener LLC. Olivia attends the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, pursuing a double major in Special Education and Elementary Education.
$2000 INTEGRATED PACKAGING SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Integrated Packaging
Awarded to Natalie Ross, daughter of Kristy Palleria of Endries International. Natalie is a freshman at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and planning to continue her education in Genetics.
$2000 RAUL TORRES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Star Stainless Screw
Awarded to Morgan Schmidt, daughter of Brian Schmidt of Associated Fastening Products. Morgan is
a graduate of Fort Hays University and is currently attending Elgin Community College, where she is studying to become a Physical Therapy Assistant.
$2000 BOB BRYNOLF MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Brynolf Manufacturing
Awarded to Aniyah Brown, daughter of John Brown of BBI. Aniyah attends Lakeland Community College, where she serves as President of Phi Theta Kappa, has earned multiple Dean’s and President’s List honors, and is pursuing a degree in Business Administration and Marketing.
$2500 SWD INC. SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by SWD Inc.
Awarded to Raegen Hunt, daughter of George Hunt III of BBI. Raegen is a senior at Saint Charles High School and a decorated gymnast. She plans to major in Elementary Education with a minor in Music.
$3500 MANTEN SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Manten
Awarded to Gracee Parker, an employee of Tru-Pack. Gracee attends the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, where she is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Education. »»»
MWFA SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS
$3500 BTM SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by BTM Manufacturing
Awarded to Audrey Bettner, daughter of Kristi Bettner of Edson Manufacturing. Audrey is a senior at Carmel High School, a member of the National Honor Society, and an AP tutor. She plans to pursue a degree in Communications or Hospitality and Event Management.
$3500 SOUTH HOLLAND METAL FINISHING/BRIAN CHRISTIANSON SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by South Holland Metal Finishing
Awarded to Cate Fennell, daughter of Anne Fennell of SWD, Inc. Cate is a graduate of York Community High School and currently attends Loyola University Chicago, where she is pursuing a degree in Marketing.
$4000 NICK VIGGIANO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Brighton-Best International Established in memory of Nick Viggiano— an industry leader, educator, and longtime MWFA advocate— this scholarship was awarded to Maggie Miller, daughter of Dave Miller of Optimas Solutions. Maggie is a senior at Rockford Christian High School,
excelling academically and athletically, and plans to pursue a degree in Occupational Therapy.
$4000 BIG BOLT SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Big Bolt
Awarded to Brennen Kleist, son of Amy Kleist of Endries International. Brennen is a senior at Brillion High School and will attend the University of Wisconsin –Madison, where he plans to study Finance.
$4000 LIONEL M. NATHAN
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Blue Ribbon Fastener Awarded to Grace Benson, daughter of Jason Benson of AFC/Cline Tool. Grace is a senior at Central College and will graduate this May before continuing on to law school.
$4000 NANCY RICH SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by the Mid-West Fastener Association
Awarded to Jissabella Almanzar, daughter of Ysabel Arias of BrightonBest International. Jissabella is a senior at Perth Amboy High
School and plans to study Criminal Justice, with the goal of attending law school to become an immigration attorney.
$4000 DELTA SECONDARY SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Delta Secondary Awarded to David Genay, son of Roxanne Genay of Spirol International. David attends The Woodstock Academy and plans to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering or Biochemical Engineering.
$5000 RICHARD S. PISKOTY
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by Clarcorp Industrial Sales
Awarded to Emily Baran, daughter of Wally Baran of South Holland Metal Finishing. Emily is a freshman at Illinois State University, studying Nursing, and has demonstrated outstanding dedication both academically and athletically.
$5500 XL SCREW CORPORATION
SCHOLARSHIP
Donated by XL Screw Corporation
Awarded to Clara Nolan, daughter of Adam Nolan of Metric & Multistandard Components Corp. Clara is a freshman at Binghamton University, studying Chemistry, and plans to attend law school with aspirations of becoming a malpractice attorney.
READER’S CORNER
VOGELSANG ANNOUNCES
NICK PENNEY RETIREMENT
Vogelsang Fastener has announced the retirement of National Sales Manager Nick Penney, marking the close of a remarkable 43-year career in the fastener industry, including 15 years with Vogelsang.
During his tenure, Penney played a key role in expanding Vogelsang’s presence across multiple markets and building the strong customer relationships the company is known for today. He was instrumental in training and mentoring the sales team, developing new sales channels, and driving significant growth.
“Nick’s deep product knowledge and supportive leadership style have made a lasting impact on our organization,” said Dale Stuban, Managing Director. “He’s always been ready to offer help, share insights, or jump in wherever needed. His professionalism, good
humor, and collaborative approach will be greatly missed.”
Known for his hands-on approach and philosophy that “there’s no such thing as not my job,” Penney built trusted relationships both inside and outside the company. He consistently prioritized people and connections, fostering a culture of honesty, accountability, and collaboration. His dedication and integrity earned him respect throughout the industry, including his work with the Metropolitan Fastener Distributor Association, where he served as Vice President. Alongside Vogelsang, Penney played an active role in supporting the local community, participating in events such as the Polar Bear Plunge for the Special Olympics, the ARC Walk, and Toys for Tots, reflecting their shared commitment to giving back.
As he transitions into retirement, Penney looks forward to spending more
time with his wife Dorothy and their family, especially their young granddaughter. He has travel plans that include completing his visits to all 50 states, hiking the remaining miles of the Appalachian Trail, and pursuing hobbies such as wood carving, lapidary, gardening, and photography. “I’m not retiring to do less,” Penney said. “I’m retiring to do more of what I love, and that means staying active.”
Vogelsang extends its heartfelt thanks to Nick for his years of leadership, friendship, and service. His influence on the team and the company’s customers will be felt for years to come.
As Vogelsang looks to the future, the company is seeking an experienced sales professional to lead, mentor, and manage its high-performing sales team, while building and maintaining meaningful, lasting relationships with key clients and distribution partners.
READER’S CORNER
MEADEN PRECISION RENEWS ISO 9001:2015 CERTIFICATION
Meaden Precision has successfully renewed its ISO 9001:2015 certification through Amtivo, an ANAB-accredited certification body. This achievement underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to quality management, reliability, and continuous improvement.
Maintaining ISO 9001 standards ensures Meaden Precision delivers products and services that meet rigorous global quality requirements while driving innovation and operational excellence.
Jerry Baskovich, VP of Operations. “This accomplishment highlights the hard work of our team and our unwavering commitment to meeting the highest standards in our industry.”
Meaden Precision is celebrating 87 years in business at their plant in Burr Ridge, IL and collaborates with All American Systems to provide regional representation. The company specializes in manufacturing precision screw machine and CNC components tailored to customer specifications.
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.
MWFA CELEBRATES THE SEASON AT HOLIDAY PARTY
On December 11, members and guests of the Mid-West Fastener Association came together at Medinah Banquets for a festive and well-attended Holiday Party that truly captured the spirit of the season. With over 135 attendees, the evening was filled with networking, laughter, and meaningful giving.
Thanks to the generosity of our members and sponsors, the event raised over $3,000 for MWFA scholarships and more than $1,000 in Toys for Tots donations, along with a truckload of toys that will help brighten the holidays for children in
need. The support shown that evening is a testament to the strength and heart of our MWFA community.
The night provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the close of another successful year while reconnecting with industry friends and partners. We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who joined us to make the event such a success.
In addition to the festivities, the evening also marked important milestones for MWFA. We welcomed and introduced
our 2026 Board of Directors, who will guide us into another successful year.
The 2025 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.
As we look ahead, the excitement is already building for 2026, when the MWFA will celebrate its 80th Anniversary. If this holiday party was any indication, it’s going to be an unforgettable year.
2026 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE
The 2026 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 $5,000.
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.
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’d like to thank you for the scholarship. It will help me greatly as I continue my journey in college, as I work towards a finance scholarship at UW-Madison. I deeply appreciate that you chose me out of the many applicants you received. I’d also like to provide a picture of myself as you requested.”
Brennen Kleist
»» “ I was honored to receive the $4,000 Lionel M Nathan Memorial Scholarship from the Mid-West Fastener Association.
I hope the scholarship committee has received the thank you letter I sent in the mail, but if not, please know that I am so grateful for the company’s support of my education. Your generous scholarship enables me to focus more fully on preparing for my future career instead of worrying about finances. Thank you”
Grace Benson
»» “ Thank you so much for your generous scholarship award! I am truly honored to have been selected. Your support means more to me than I can express, and it
will make a meaningful difference in my education. I am currently attending the University of South Carolina, and this scholarship will help lighten the financial burden of college so I can focus on my studies and take full advantage of the opportunities here. I am incredibly grateful for your investment in my future; as well as my mother’s future in the fastener industry.
Thank you again for your generosity and for supporting students like me. It is deeply appreciated.”
Audrey Bettner
»» “ I want to express how truly grateful I am for the scholarship that you have awarded me. Thank you also to Clarcorp for making this possible. This opportunity is unlike any other I have received and will
help me greatly through my journey. I am a freshman majoring in nursing in the Honors College at Illinois State University in Normal Illinois. Previously, I was a 4 year varsity track and swim athlete, a member of the National Honors Society, and have received 2 Seal of Biliteracy Awards in Polish and Spanish. Throughout my college years, I will make certain to not disappoint that you chose the right person for this opportunity. I cannot express my gratitude enough.”
Emily Baran
»» “ I am honored and would like to express my gratitude and appreciation. I will be attending the event in November and can not wait to meet everyone. Thank you kindly for all the support and recognition”
Emily Baran
»» “I’m writing to sincerely thank you for awarding me one of the scholarships from the MWFA. As a senior at UW–Stevens Point, this support means a great deal to me both financially and personally. Your generosity allows me to focus more on my studies and campus involvement during my final year, and I’m truly grateful for the encouragement and opportunity this scholarship provides. Thank you again for your support — it’s made a meaningful difference in my college experience.”
Olivia Paukner
»» “ I want to express my sincere gratitude over having the opportunity to apply and receive a scholarship to help pay for my next level of education. I am so thankful to be picked as one of the recipients and I am grateful for the Midwest Fastener Association and the gracious donors who give students greater opportunities to grow in their education by awarding
these scholarships. This scholarship helps open a door to continue my education without the added stress of increasing school debt and figuring out how to pay for it. Thank you again for this opportunity to receive this amazing scholarship and your contribution will not be taken for granted.”
Morgan Schmidt
»» ”Thank you so much for the generous scholarship you have awarded me. I appreciate your support as I continue my education at Central College with your financial assistance. I plan to major communications and minor in Spanish to eventually go into event planning. Thanks again for your support”
Paige Benson
»» “Thank you so much for giving me this award and helping me on my college journey. I am forever grateful that you picked me as one of your many applicants. It is people like you who allow students to reach towards their dreams again words cannot describe how grateful I am thank you ”
Cate Fennell
»» “ I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you. The scholarship awarded
to me has greatly relieved my financial burdens, opened up the possibility for me to study abroad, and has erased my mother’s worries about taking on a substantial amount of loans. Your generosity has truly made a difference in my life. I cannot thank you enough for supporting my education and helping me get closer to my dream of becoming a lawyer one day. Thank you once again for believing in me, and for your continued support.”
Jissabella Almanzar
»» “I am beyond thankful for this opportunity. The funds will help me continue to pay for my education with love.”
Lola Rivera
»» “ I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for awarding me with this scholarship. I am truly grateful for this assistance that I nearly became emotional when I found out the news. This scholarship will help me and my family ease our financial burden. It will also assist me with focusing on my education and decrease my financial concern. I can’t thank you all enough and I will continue to show my appreciation by ensuring I make the most of my academic goals. Once again, thank you all for your support and generosity.”
Aniyah D. Brown
FASTENER SHOW, TRAINING, NETWORKING AND RECREATION - CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF MWFA!
The MWFA is thrilled to announce the 5th annual FSTNR Week, taking place August 29th -September 2nd, 2026, incorporating the 44th MWFA Fastener Show and 73rd MWFA Golf Outing
This year we are going big - we are celebrating our 80th Anniversary, so are celebrating in style at Navy Pier in Chicago Building on the incredible success of previous years, this highly anticipated event promises an exceptional week of opportunities to bring the fastener industry together - our biggest event yet!
2026 FSTNR Week Highlights:
• August 30: Sleep in Heavenly Peace Bed Build
• August 31: Annual Golf Outing
• September 1: Welcome Mixer
• September 2: Tabletop Show and 80th Anniversary Dinner
We’re hard at work finalizing plans and will be sharing registration details, event schedules, and sponsorship information soon. Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox—and mark your calendar now so you don’t miss one of MWFA’s biggest weeks of the year!. For the latest updates, visit www.mwfa.net.
Remembering Sebastian Janas
Sebastian Janas was a dedicated industry professional, generous supporter, and cherished member of the Mid-West Fastener Association community. His passing is a profound loss felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him and working alongside him.
Sebastian was an integral part of Sems and Specials, a company that has long been a strong and engaged supporter of the MWFA. Through his work, Sebastian exemplified professionalism, reliability, and a deep commitment to the fastener industry. He
was a familiar and welcoming presence at MWFA events, consistently showing up with enthusiasm, generosity, and a willingness to support the association in any way he could.
Beyond his professional role, Sebastian was known for his kindness, humility, and genuine care for others. He built meaningful relationships throughout the industry, earning the respect and friendship of colleagues who valued not only his knowledge, but his character. Sebastian had a way of making people feel comfortable and included, whether through conversation,
collaboration, or simply by being present.
Sebastian’s loss is felt deeply within the MWFA community. He represented the very spirit of what makes our association strong— commitment, camaraderie, and service. His legacy lives on through the relationships he built, the impact he made, and the many lives he touched along the way.
We extend our deepest condolences to Sebastian’s family, friends, and the entire Sems and Specials team. He will be remembered with great respect and missed beyond measure.
READER’S CORNER
AFC INDUSTRIES TWO NEW BUSINESS GROUPS BRANDS
AFC Industries a leading provider of vendor-managed inventory programs and industrial distribution solutions, announced the launch of two new business group brands: AFC Tooling and AFC Aerospace & Defense. These new identities unify several respected legacy businesses under focused banners, reinforcing AFC’s long-term strategy of clarity, growth, and service leadership.
AFC Tooling brings together two wellestablished companies, Cline Tool and PF Markey, under one name. Combined, they have decades of expertise in cutting tools, vending solutions, and advanced services.
“This is an exciting milestone for our tooling businesses,” said Jim Henning, President of AFC Tooling. “Cline Tool and PF Markey each built strong reputations on
service, quality, and technical know-how. By bringing them together under AFC Tooling, we simplify our message to customers and give our team a stronger platform to grow. Same people, same solutions — now presented as one unified brand.”
AFC Aerospace & Defense unifies AFC’s expanding footprint in the aerospace and defense sector. This group brings together MTI, CIF, CGG, and Askew Marine under a single identity dedicated to supporting both commercial and defense markets. With deep expertise in mission-critical components and supply chain management, AFC Aerospace & Defense is focused on compliance, precision, and reliability.
“Aerospace and defense customers need partners they can trust to deliver precision and compliance without compromise,” said Chris Lloyd, President of AFC Aerospace &
Defense. “By bringing MTI, CIF, CGG, and Askew Marine under the AFC Aerospace & Defense banner, we send a clear message: AFC is committed to this sector for the long term, and we’re aligning our resources to serve customers at the highest level.”
“Both of these rollouts reflect the same commitment — to make AFC clear and easy to understand in the marketplace while staying true to the service culture that built our legacy brands,” said Joe Shoemaker, Vice President of Marketing. “Our goal is to simplify the story for customers and sharpen the value we bring across every segment we serve.”
These new brand identities are part of AFC’s broader effort to create clarity in the market by aligning acquired businesses under unified groups, while maintaining the local expertise and service customers rely on.
Remembering Nicholas “Nick” Viggiano
Nicholas “Nick”Viggiano was a respected leader, mentor, and friend whose influence on the fastener industry and the MidWest Fastener Association will be felt for generations to come. With more than 50 years in the industry, Nick built a career defined not only by professional excellence, but by generosity, integrity, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.
Nick served in many roles during his career, lastly as Vice President of Supply Chain at Brighton-Best International. Widely regarded as a true fastener industry veteran, he possessed a wealth of knowledge that he
willingly shared. His mentorship extended far beyond his own organization, fostering relationships and friendships worldwide.
Nick’s contributions to the MWFA were especially meaningful. He played a key role in shaping educational programs that strengthened the association and elevated the industry as a whole. As a valued member of the Scholarship Committee, Nick found great joy in supporting students as they pursued their academic and career goals. He also lent his expertise to the FQA advisory committee, helping shape legislation and standards that have guided the fastener industry for decades.
Nick’s professional accomplishments were significant, but those who knew him best will remember that his greatest pride was his family. He cherished his wife, Maggie, his children Liz and David, and his four grandchildren. He was also known for his love of cooking, his strong sense of patriotism, and his unique ability to make everyone around him feel welcomed, respected, and included.
Nick was more than a leader within the MWFA — His kindness, wisdom, and friendship left a lasting mark on our association and on the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
MWFA WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
Alert Screw Products Corporation is a family-grown precision machining and metal turning company based in Fox Lake, IL, with over 20 years of experience serving customers from prototype orders to multi-million-piece runs. They manufacture a wide range of highquality metal and plastic components with competitive pricing and personalized service.
Endeavor AI is a generative AI platform designed to help manufacturers and distributors automate critical business
processes like quoting, order entry, and supply chain workflows by integrating seamlessly with existing ERP systems. By using advanced AI agents to reduce manual work and deliver real-time insights, Endeavor enables companies to increase efficiency, boost sales, and modernize operations across their organizations.
Soff is an AI-powered platform built for manufacturers to streamline and automate the quoting and supply chain process, helping teams manage RFQs, centralize quote requests, and integrate seamlessly with existing systems like ERP to win more business faster. By reducing manual tasks and improving response times, Soff gives manufacturers a smarter way to grow revenue and boost operational efficiency.
Prestige Stamping, LLC is an allAmerican manufacturer with over 50 years of experience producing high-performance precision metal stampings and washers for industries including automotive, structural, agricultural, and industrial markets. Based in Warren, MI, they combine engineering support, advanced manufacturing, and exceptional service to deliver custom and standard components that help power critical applications across the country.
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.
2026 EVENTS CALENDAR
February 12 February Joint Meeting IFI & NASF
GolfZonSocial, Oakbrook, IL
March 19 Fascination with Fasteners Addison, IL
April 23 Heat Treating & Plating Class SWD, Addison, IL
April 23 April Dinner Meeting Addison, IL
May 5-6 Fastener Fair USA Charlotte, NC
May 21 7th Annual Screwed Up Open Bensenville, IL
June/July Summer Outings & Events
August 29 - FSTNR Week
September 2 (Fastener Show, Training, Networking, Recreation)
August 29 Tough Mudder Rockford, IL
August 30 Sleep In Heavenly Peace Bed Build
August 31 73rd Annual Golf Outing
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, Lemont, IL
September 1 Welcome Mixer
Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
September 2 44th Tabletop Show
Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
September 2 80th Anniversary Dinner
October 7-9
November 5
Navy Pier, Chicago, IL
International Fastener Expo Phoenix, AZ
Scholarship Awards, Hall of Fame & Board Elections
December 10 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 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
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