NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Thomas, the leader in product sourcing, supplier selection and marketing solutions for industry, today announced the first winners of its new Thomas Recognition Programs, which showcase and honor the best and brightest individuals within the manufacturing/industrial space.
Thomas’ NextGen For Industry program highlights outstanding millennial-aged individuals who are introducing new ideas, taking on challenges and driving new success for their companies and co-workers, while its Champion For Industry program recognizes business owners, managers and industry leaders of all ages who help drive their companies and the manufacturing industry forward.
As an ongoing initiative in which new winners will be profiled each month, nominations will be accepted year-round at Thomas’ Recognition Programs site.
“Industry is wrestling with a growing skills gap as baby boomers retire in record numbers, and some incredibly talented millennials are stepping up to fill the void,” said Tony Uphoff, Thomas President and CEO. “To encourage greater numbers of younger workers to enter careers in manufacturing, our NextGen For Industry program shines a spotlight on young professionals who are making a difference and building a rewarding career in industry.”
Business leaders also see extraordinary new opportunities and new challenges as Industry 4.0 and emerging technologies redefine the manufacturing and industrial landscape. “Our Champion For Industry program recognizes industry leaders that show a unique ability to adapt, innovate and lead in an evolving and increasingly competitive arena,” continued Uphoff. “We’re incredibly proud to honor all of our program award recipients for their impressive accomplishments and contributions to industry.”
NextGen For Industry honoree: Aleah Titus
As the Local Product Group Supply Chain Manager for ABB Inc. in Richmond, Virginia, Aleah was called in to support a team that needed help. She worked with the local IT staff to create a tool to prevent material shortages, while at the same time, she set up over 55 new suppliers in a short period of time to help improve a throughput issue. In her time with ABB, Aleah has successfully saved her company around 5 million dollars. She is one of the youngest Supply Chain Managers at ABB. Read more of Aleah’s story here.
Champion For Industry honoree: Joel Stone
Chief Technology Officer and Board Chair at Fermentum, Joel was described by a colleague as “a visionary leader and change agent in industrial biotechnology, globally recognized as a sage in our industry.” He is a sought-after speaker and industry consultant, and has been CEO, COO, SVP, and VP of numerous food ingredient, animal health, enzyme, ethanol, and renewable chemical companies. Read more of Joel’s story here.
Nominate an industry difference maker for well-deserved recognition
“We’d like to encourage our fellow industry members to nominate deserving co-workers for our recognition programs,” said Uphoff. “Shining a spotlight on our industry’s ‘stars’ puts a brighter focus on industry as a whole, we’re proud to do so while honoring true difference-makers for their continuous hard work and dedication.”
Along with “bragging rights,” winners will be featured on the Thomas website, across social media and championed among their own professional networks. Anyone can nominate a colleague for consideration, though self-nominations are not eligible. Thomas will announce winners on a monthly basis. To submit a nomination, please visit Thomas’ Recognition Programs site.
About Thomas
Thomas provides actionable information, data, analysis and tools that align with and support today’s industrial buying process. Its solutions include the Thomas Network at Thomasnet.com®, industry’s largest and most active buyer/supplier network. Through Thomas Marketing Services, the company provides full-service industrial marketing programs and website development. Thomas Product Data Solutions helps manufacturers connect with design engineers through advanced CAD/BIM and data syndication services. Thomas WebTrax® provides opportunity intelligence on in-market buyers to help marketing and sales teams track, identify, and engage high value prospects. Thomas Insights delivers original content to help marketers and supply chain professionals inform their decision-making, through leading titles including Inbound Logistics®, Industrial Equipment News® (IEN®), Thomas Industry Update, and the Thomas Index™.