Each year, the community of Elk Grove Village nominates and recognizes manufacturers for excellence in Community Support, Sustainability, Innovation, and Industrial Development of the Year. The following companies have proven to be 'Beyond Business Friendly' by not only manufacturing exceptional products but also being a valuable asset to the Elk Grove Village community.
This year, we also recognized Elk Grove High School students who have shown dedication and passion in pursuing a career in manufacturing.
Craig B. Johnson announced the winners at the awards ceremony during the exhibitor luncheon. A special thanks to Deputy Governor Leslie Geissler Munger for congratulating the award winners as they came on stage.
Industrial Development of the Year - Elk Grove Technology Park
Brennan Investment Group, representing the establishment of the Elk Grove Technology Park was recognized for Industrial Development of the Year. Kevin Brennan, Michael Brennan, and Brad O'Halloran accepted the award. The Elk Grove Technology Park is in the beginning stages of infrastructure development. New buildings located at the technology park will feature high-end glass facade, modern pre-cast construction, energy-efficient systems and features, 32' ceiling clearance, and parking. Buildings range in size from 73,829 to 243,691 square feet. The park is ideal for industrial and technology businesses as well as data centers.
Excellence in Community Support - LA-CO Industries
Representing Excellence in Community Support is LA-Co Industries, a leader in industrial plumbing chemicals. Accepting the award is Tim Engstrom, director of supply chain and logistics, and Steve Smith, president and CEO. In 2017, Engstrom knew he needed to hire more people. Having experience working with employees with disabilities, he partnered with Elmhurst College to create a program that would provide those with disabilities job opportunities.
Excellence in Sustainability - Permatron
Permatron, offering air filter solutions for leaders in facilities management, was recognized for Excellence in Sustainability. Recently acquired for Rensa Filtration, Permatron has expanded its line of environment-safe products. Accepting the award was CEO Leslye Sandberg and Founder/CEO of Rensa Filtration, Brandon Ost.
Excellence in Innovation - Procom
Jacek Zaworski and Paul Pustelnik of Procom accepted the award for Innovation. Procom is a leader in custom electronic systems and intelligent control technologies. Products include lighting control systems, digital security and surveillance systems, audio/video distribution, burglary and fire alarm systems, energy-saving HVAC solutions, home theaters, and other home and business automation and information systems.
Excellence in Manufacturing Education - Kacper Migacz
In addition, Elk Grove High School senior, Kacper Migacz, was recognized for excellence in manufacturing education. Kacper has had repeated success at the SkillsUSA state competitions for the last three years. He's also taken almost every manufacturing and engineering course offered at the high school and, according to his teachers, has showcased true leadership skills in and out of the classroom.