GALA AWARDS 2024

Dickson Gould is the President of The Progressive Group of Companies Inc., an organization whose operations range from agriculture, metal fabrication, and food processing. Dickson has had a longstanding career in the livestock production industry that spans over 40 years. Working with companies such as Elite Swine Inc., Landmark Feeds Inc., Maple Leaf Foods, and more, he led the growth of The Progressive Group to include such companies as Winkler Meats, Pioneer Meats, and Rainbow Trailers.

A grad of the U of M Agribusiness program, Dickson has been a strong advocate for the protein production and processing sectors for many years. In 2023, he became the chair of the Sustainable Protein Council, whose directive is to grow the value of the protein industry by leveraging the advantages of doing business in Manitoba with an ultimate goal of attracting investments and new businesses to our province.

ABOUT THE AWARD

The Hall of Fame award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated leadership in the development of their company or companies and success in their chosen industry. These individuals are visionary leaders and exhibit these qualities through the design or implementation of revolutionary products, systems or processes. They are strongly integrated into the community and demonstrate a positive impact with youth and students.

Mitch Tetrault is the President and CEO for Monarch Industries Limited. He originally started with Monarch in 1987, gradually advancing to various management positions. His career took him to U.S. based Franklin Electric as their Vice President of Canadian and Consumer Divisions when Monarch divested the water pump division in 2007. Returning to Monarch in 2014, he joined a great team in transforming the company and in the past few years Monarch has enjoyed many successes including being recognized by Made Safe with the Safety Excellence in Manufacturing Award in 2023.

As a passionate business leader, Mitch has focused on developing Monarch’s people, relentlessly supporting safety initiatives within all operations, while driving team-based growth in all aspects of the business.

As they enter 2024, they are committed to investing in their future, including a 109,000 sq ft expansion of their Winnipeg cylinder facility, maintaining a safety culture that is second to none in the industry and a relentless pursuit of operational excellence. Mitch credits in full the success of the safety program to Monarch’s dedicated employees, safety committees and management team.

ABOUT THE AWARD

The Safety Leadership Award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated leadership in safety and health in the manufacturing industry. In addition, these individuals have a history of advancing safety and health practices within their organization and industry. The winner of this award has made a lasting impact on the safety and health of others in the industry.

MANITOBA COOPERATIVE HONEY PRODUCERS 

On April 6, 1938, Manitoba Co-operative Honey Producers Limited was incorporated under The Companies Act, created out of a need for orderly marketing, a honey pasteurizing plant, packing under a brand name, and advertising and promotion of Manitoba honey. The majority of beekeepers at that time, while not enthusiastic about Co-operative principles, recognized that if they wanted a central processing, packing, and marketing organization, there was no alternative but to organize a Co-operative and establish their own plant.   

Operating with scant resources and minimal processing equipment, the Cooperative embarked on its journey from a leased warehouse in downtown Winnipeg. This marked an exciting period as the Cooperative’s beekeepers introduced their premium quality Canadian honey under a registered brand. In 1973, the name changed to Bee Maid Honey, and eventually became a favourite brand in Canadian households and abroad.  

Bee Maid Honey stands as a proud testament to this joint venture, equally owned by the two cooperatives. They continue to uphold their commitment, sourcing Canadian honey from their dedicated beekeeper owners. 

ABOUT THE AWARD

The Pioneer award looks back at those people who began a manufacturing business in Manitoba and nurtured it into a successful company. This award recognizes key builders of our manufacturing community who launched successful companies that significantly increased employment in the sector.

ICON TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED

Icon Technologies Limited is a privately held corporation based in Winkler, MB. From their start in 1998, their goal has been to provide innovative custom solutions to OEM and Aftermarket customers in the recreational vehicle market. Their expertise in thermoforming and rotational moulding has led to a robust catalogue of over 1,800, with more than 3,000 unique items produced in total on-site. While what they “do” is design and manufacture premium parts for RVs, their attention to customer service and experience has led to a dedicated following in the USA and beyond. 

ICON’s ability to keep their business agile throughout the years has allowed them to take their company from a small-but-mighty custom shop to an impressive operation of over 125 employees. An efficient integration of product development capabilities, verification, and advanced manufacturing methods ensure that their products – and their company – are built to last. 

ABOUT THE AWARD

The Export award is granted each year to a company demonstrating excellence in expanding into geographic markets and through significant and sustained export sales. This company has achieved a certain degree revenue growth either through regular operations or the creation of additional product lines or the innovation of existing designs. They exhibit good corporate citizenship and have contributed to the expansion of Manitoban and Canadian employment.

GLOBAL DRAIN TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Global Drain Technologies (GDT), is rapidly emerging as a leader in stainless steel drainage manufacturing.  As a parent company to a suite of specialized brands including FoodSafeDrains, SlotDrain Systems, and Landscape Drains, GDT is carving a unique niche by offering purpose-built drainage solutions. The company’s growth trajectory is a testament to its commitment to innovation, technology, and an understanding of customer needs. GDT manufacturers top-quality products certified to NSF standards.  

This commitment to excellence is evident in the achievements of its FoodSafe brand. For consecutive years, FoodSafe Drains has played a crucial role in the success of leading food processing companies. In 2022, Pennsylvania-based Bell and Evans, and in 2023, Clemens Foods, both achieved the title of Food Plant of the Year, thanks in part to their partnership with GDT.  These achievements are a direct testament to the hard work and dedication of GDT’s remarkable team. 

ABOUT THE AWARD

The Emerging award is designed to capture businesses that have significant future potential. It will recognize companies, both new and old, who are distinguishing themselves through growth, impact and innovation. These organizations are likely to become future leaders in Manitoba manufacturing and exporting.

CME Manitoba is proud to be presenting three $2,500 Manufacturing scholarships as a part of our awards program.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2024 RECIPIENTS.

Woman in Manufacturing Scholarship

Zoe Hirose, Tec Voc High School
Aerospace Manufacturing and Maintenance Machining

Zoe Hirose is a passionate young woman with a background in electronics and a newfound enthusiasm for aerospace manufacturing. Zoe is currently excelling in the AMMOP Machining program at Tec-Voc. Her dedication extends beyond personal growth; she aims to inspire and mentor future generations, particularly young girls, emphasizing the importance of representation and diversity in the trades.

Lexi Hamilton, Red River College Polytech
Welding

A determined young woman, Lexi Hamilton has found her passion in welding after exploring various jobs and realizing her happiness lies in hands-on work. Despite initial intimidation, she is thriving in her pre-employment welding
classes at Red River Collegiate. Inspired by her supportive instructor and classmates, Lexi is aiming to break stereotypes and encourage more women to pursue careers in the trades.

Manitoba Trade Technology Scholarship

Vince Denmark Dela Rosa, Red River College Polytech
CNC Machinist Technician

Vince Denmark Dela Rosa, a first-year CNC Machinist Technician student at Red River College Polytech, seeks to pursue a career in manufacturing, specifically in the aviation industry, driven by his hands-on experience and
passion cultivated through programs like AMMOP. Intending to secure a Red Seal as a machinist and contribute to addressing the looming shortage of skilled workers in manufacturing, Vince is determined to showcase the value and longevity of careers in this field, emphasizing its importance in society

Indigenous Manufacturing Scholarship

Mya Sanderson
Welding

Mya finds purpose and belonging in the craft of welding and is driven by her belief to live life to the fullest. Aspiring to obtain her Red Seal in welding, she aims to make a meaningful impact by utilizing her skills to give back to her
community and support others in need. Mya’s journey in welding technology showcases her resilience and passion for hands-on work and demonstrates her commitment to mastering a crucial skill in the manufacturing industry.

PLATINUM SPONSOR | LIMITED AVAILABILITY | $7500  

• Premium logo recognition in all advertising and marketing collateral, including website.
• Logo recognition on day-of signage.
• Podium introduction opportunity with official program or award introduction.
• Airing of corporate video (30 seconds supplied by sponsor).
• Gala Awards Dinner tickets. (Table of 9 + 1 head table seat).
• Access to attendee list (company only) 48 hours in advance.
• Premium logo recognition in QR code accessible program

GOLD SPONSOR | $4500

• Logo recognition in all advertising and marketing collateral, including website.
• Logo recognition on day-of signage and QR code accessible program.
• 4 Gala Awards Dinner tickets.

SILVER SPONSOR | $2500

• Logo recognition on day-of signage and name on QR code accessible program.
• 2 Gala Awards Dinner tickets

Interested? Please Contact:

Richard Harzing
Marketing Coordinator
Richard.Harzing@cme-mec.ca