We proudly hosted our 113th Annual Celebration of Manufacturing on Thursday, May 21st, at the SRC Arena and Events Center in Syracuse. The evening brought together hundreds of manufacturing leaders, elected officials, and community partners to honor the people, organizations, and innovations shaping New York’s manufacturing future.
The celebration highlighted the continued momentum of New York’s manufacturing industry and the partnerships driving the sector forward. Woven throughout the evening’s keynote remarks, tributes, and presentations was a powerful unifying theme: Building Tomorrow, Together.
“This year’s theme reflects the strength and collaboration that define our manufacturing community,” said Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY. “Whether we’re advancing cutting-edge technologies or developing the next generation workforce, we’re doing it together with a shared commitment to building a stronger future for our region and beyond.”
Celebrating Leadership and Innovation
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2026 Innovator of the Year Award to Antoinett Dufort, Vice President of Operations at Hidden Level. Dufort was recognized for her pioneering leadership in introducing operational systems to optimize workflow, reduce inefficiencies, and strengthen communication on the shop floor. Her work has helped position Hidden Level as a leader in defense technology, supporting the rapid deployment of critical sensing systems that address evolving homeland security challenges while further strengthening Central New York’s role as a hub for advanced manufacturing innovation.
Also recognized was Nathan Andrews, President of Morse Manufacturing, who was inducted into MACNY’s Manufacturers Wall of Fame. As a third-generation leader of a more than 100-year-old Central New York manufacturer, Andrews has guided the family-owned company through a period of growth and modernization, positioning Morse Manufacturing as a global leader in drum handling equipment. His leadership, commitment to community, and dedication to industry development were celebrated as instrumental in driving long-term regional success and emblematic of the deep, enduring roots of Manufacturing in Central New York.
Recognizing Milestones of Excellence
The program also honored companies celebrating significant anniversaries, recognizing the legacy of New York’s manufacturing sector. This year’s Milestone Award recipients included:
- BioSpherix – 25 years
- Print Solutions Plus, Inc. – 25 years
- Usherwood Office Technology – 50 years
- Arc of Onondaga – 75 years
- W. Naylor Co. – 100 years
- GDI Services, Inc. – 100 years
- Corning Incorporated – 175 years
- Revere Copper Products – 225 years
Together, these companies represent more than 775 years of manufacturing excellence, representing the critical role long-standing organizations play in sustaining regional economies and communities.
Honoring 25 Years of Leadership
A special moment during the evening included the recognition of Randy Wolken for 25 years of leadership as President & CEO of MACNY. Through his vision and dedication, Wolken has played a pivotal role in strengthening the manufacturing community, advancing workforce development initiatives, and positioning MACNY as a leading voice for industry across New York State. The tribute served as a meaningful reflection on his lasting impact and commitment to the organization and its members.
Spotlighting Partnership and Statewide Support
At the event, attendees viewed a special video message from Governor Kathy Hochul, who reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening New York’s manufacturing sector through continued investment in innovation, infrastructure, and workforce development.
Additional remarks from Timothy McDevitt, Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending at M&T Bank, and Ross Berntson, President and CEO of Indium Corporation, emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration in driving regional growth and building the next generation of manufacturing talent.
As we look ahead to another year of empowering its members and advancing the industry, the 113th Annual Celebration of Manufacturing served as a powerful reminder of the shared vision and forward momentum that defines manufacturing in New York.