GPS Education Partners held an annual benefit on Sept. 10 at the Milwaukee School of Engineering to honor eight individuals and organizations that have played a key role in advancing its mission in youth and community investment. The Butler-based nonprofit organization aims to prepare students for continued education and meaningful careers through hands-on education in the manufacturing environment.
The award winners were as follows:
• Jeff Clark, president/chief executive officer of Sussex-based Waukesha Metal Products, who won the Recognition of Innovation Award, which is presented to an exceptional leader whose creativity and ingenuity efforts inspire GPS students to reach their full potential.
• Lakeside Manufacturing Inc. in West Milwaukee, Strattec Security Corp. in Glendale and Capitol Stampings Corp. in Milwaukee were presented with the Trailblazer of Community Impact Award, which recognizes businesses for their innovative thinking and bold willingness to support the rigorous and relevant efforts of GPS.
• Gloria Stearns, the executive director of the Milwaukee-based 30th Street Industrial Corridor Corp., and Linda Kiedrowski, the chief executive officer and owner of the Wauwatosa-based Paranet Group, were awarded the Community Ambassador Award, which honors leaders that have demonstrated initiative, enthusiasm and spirit on behalf of GPS while inspiring others to get involved.
• Mike Erwin, chief executive officer of Menomonee Falls-based Tailored Label Products Inc., and Mary Steinbrecher, executive director of MMAC’s Council of Small Business Executives, were the recipients of the Champion of Community Leadership Award. It honors individuals who exemplify community leadership by serving and influencing others for the greater good and committing to initiatives that have a far-reaching, lasting impact.
