The New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Inc. announced the winners of its 2025 “MADE in NJ” Manufacturing Day Awards at iPlay America in Freehold earlier this month.
“MADE in NJ” Manufacturing Day is the largest manufacturing networking event in the state and brings together manufacturers, industry stakeholders, students, educators and legislators for a day of recognition, inspiration and industry advocacy.
Organizers of this year’s event attracted record attendance, held sessions with both major gubernatorial candidates, displayed exhibits, and featured a keynote address by broadcaster and business leader Steve Adubato.
At the heart of the event is the annual ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day Awards Ceremony, where manufacturers of all sizes, rising stars, and industry pioneers are recognized for their outstanding contributions to New Jersey’s manufacturing economy.
This year’s award winners were unveiled in the following categories:
2025 ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day Award Winners
- Manufacturer of the Year – Small | Lobster Life Systems
- Manufacturer of the Year – Medium | UTRS Advanced Manufacturing
- Manufacturer of the Year – Large | Legrand, Middle Atlantic
- Leaders in Life Sciences | Geared Power BioGuard
- Rising Stars Award | Cari August – Lightera
- Innovator of the Year | KrellTech
‘MADE in NJ’ Honor Roll
- Jim Hannan, Partner – Withum
- Chris Emigholz, Chief Government Affairs Officer – NJBIA
- Kelly Broznya, State Director/CEO NJSBDC hosted at Rutgers Business School
- Tom Bergeron, Owner, Editor – BINJE
- Thomas J. Williams, Resource Manager – NIST Manufacturing Extension Program
- Mark Schmit, Division Chief – NIST Manufacturing Extension Program
“These award winners represent the very best of New Jersey manufacturing,” said Peter Connolly, CEO of NJMEP. “From cutting-edge innovation to workforce excellence, each honoree reflects the resilience and leadership that keeps New Jersey’s economy moving forward.”
The award winners were selected from a competitive group of finalists, each showcasing exceptional performance in their category and a shared commitment to advancing New Jersey’s manufacturing landscape.
