The New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) has released the list of finalists for the 2025 ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day Awards. The awards aim to highlight manufacturers and individuals who are contributing to growth, innovation, and leadership within New Jersey’s manufacturing sector.
The finalists come from a variety of industries and business sizes. They have been recognized for their achievements in operational excellence, workforce development, product innovation, and positive impact on their communities.
Winners will be announced during the ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day celebration scheduled for October 3 at the Event Center at iPlay America in Freehold.
“‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day is more than just an event—it’s a meeting place for the people who power New Jersey’s economy,” said NJMEP CEO Peter Connolly. “Year after year, we see manufacturers from every corner of the state come together to share ideas, showcase their work, and celebrate the incredible impact they have on our communities.
“Congratulations to all the finalists—you represent the very best of innovation, resilience, and leadership in New Jersey manufacturing.”
Finalists were named across several categories:
Manufacturer of the Year – Large: Tilcon NY; Holt Logistics; Legrand (Middle Atlantic); Hikma Pharmaceuticals
Manufacturer of the Year – Medium: Ace Electronics Defense Systems; Virtex; UTRS Advanced Manufacturing, LLC; LPS Industries, LLC
Manufacturer of the Year – Small: Modern Line Furniture Inc.; Web-Cote Industries; Old Hickory BBQ; Lobster Life Systems, Inc.; Triad RF Systems Inc.; GP Precision Inc.
Life Science Leader Award: Geared Power; Hikma Pharmaceuticals; Case Medical, Inc.; Jewel Precision
Innovator of the Year: Bestwork Industries for the Blind; Krell Technologies; Triad RF Systems Inc.; Zarbeco, LLC
Rising Stars: Jackie Luciano – Zago Manufacturing; Cari August – Lightera; Colleen Shea – Pen Company America; Yana Katliarova – Modern Line Furniture Inc.; Melissa Graziano – Jewel Precision
The annual event draws hundreds of manufacturers along with industry stakeholders, government officials, educators and students. Activities include an awards ceremony as well as product displays and robotics demonstrations. Breakout sessions are also planned. For this year’s program there will be moderated addresses by both 2025 gubernatorial candidates for the first time.
More information about registration is available at https://www.njmep.org/mfgday/.
