10/14/2026
Today, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and M&M Quality Grinding celebrated five scholarship recipients: Nia Autam, Emma Valencia, Grady Jones, Makensie Hanus, and Ruth Tilahun, honoring the remarkable women whose leadership inspired these awards.
From the Janice Christiansen and Lynne Mohr Scholarships to the Mama Susie Scholarship for Advancing Immigrant Women in Manufacturing, these awards recognize the power of investing in future leaders and expanding opportunities across our industry.
The event brought together manufacturers for a fireside chat with IMA President & CEO Mark Denzler, Manufacturing Advocate and Industry Ally Miles Free, Sr. VP of Business Development for the Illinois EDC Paulina San Milan, and Director of Innovation at Northern Illinois University Heather Penczak, on the importance of investing in the next generation of manufacturing talent. The fireside chat was moderated by the IMA Sr. VP & Corporate Board Secretary, Sarah Hartwick.
Before the panel took the stage, M&M Quality Grinding and Pioneer Service Inc gave attendees a tour of their amazing facility! Thank you to IMA Board Member Aneesa Muthana for leading the charge on Forged in Illinois event and for hosting today's event.
Congratulations to the recipients, and thank you to everyone helping shape the future of Illinois manufacturing! 👏