The Countdown Begins: Meet the Finalists of ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day 2025
New Jersey’s biggest manufacturing celebration is just around the corner, and the momentum is building. Each year, the ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day event spotlights the incredible innovation, leadership, and resilience of New Jersey’s manufacturing sector. With the 2025 edition shaping up to be the most impactful one yet, it’s time to recognize the outstanding finalists who will take center stage.
Honoring Excellence Across the Industry
The ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day Awards recognize the manufacturers, leaders, and rising stars that are shaping New Jersey’s industrial future. The 2025 finalists span sectors from aerospace to life sciences, representing the creativity, strength, and excellence that power the state’s economy.
This year’s finalists include:
Manufacturer of the Year – Large
Manufacturer of the Year – Medium
Manufacturer of the Year – Small
- Modern Line Furniture Inc.
- Web-Cote Industries
- Old Hickory BBQ
- Lobster Life Systems, Inc.
- Triad RF Systems Inc.
- GP Precision Inc.
Leader in Life Sciences
Innovator of the Year
Rising Stars
- Jackie Luciano – Zago Manufacturing
- Cari August – Lightera
- Colleen Shea – Pen Company America
- Yana Katliarova – Modern Line Furniture Inc.
- Melissa Graziano – Jewel Precision
With hundreds of nominations submitted, these finalists stood out for their commitment to quality, innovation, and community impact. They will be honored at the 13th annual ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day celebration on October 3 at iPlay America in Freehold, NJ.
What’s in Store This Year
This year’s event promises to be the most impactful yet, with more than a thousand attendees expected. The program features industry showcases, interactive breakout sessions, student engagement opportunities, and conversations on the pressing issues shaping manufacturing’s future.
For the first time in event history, both 2025 gubernatorial candidates—Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli—will address the manufacturing community directly. Each will share their perspective on New Jersey’s industrial economy and outline their vision for supporting the sector if elected. It’s a rare and important opportunity for manufacturers to hear firsthand from those vying to lead the state.
A Day That Moves the Needle
New Jersey’s manufacturing industry generates more than $58 billion annually for the state’s GDP and supports hundreds of thousands of jobs. ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day is more than a celebration—it’s a platform for connection, policy dialogue, and business growth.
For students, it offers a firsthand look at high-tech career paths.
For manufacturers, it provides access to resources, partnerships, and influence in state and national conversations.
For legislators, it creates a direct line to the needs and opportunities of the industry powering New Jersey’s economy.
The Value of Visibility
Award finalists and attendees alike gain a unique opportunity to raise awareness, strengthen relationships, and drive business growth. Showcasing excellence at ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day not only honors achievements, but it also inspires others to push boundaries and raise standards.
Participants leave with valuable connections across the industry, practical solutions uncovered in breakout sessions, greater visibility for their organizations, and a stronger sense of community built around a shared mission.
Be There — Be Part of the Conversation
Don’t miss your chance to take part in New Jersey’s premier manufacturing event. Join us on October 3 to celebrate the finalists, engage in powerful conversations, and help shape the next era of manufacturing in the Garden State.
Registration is still open — reserve your spot today at www.njmep.org/mfgday