Sign up for our weekly email to stay on top of the latest news and insights!
Waupaca Foundry, a global leader in iron castings, has appointed Michael (Mike) Hawthorne as Chief Executive Officer. He succeeds Mike Nikolai, who departs after nine years as CEO and more than 30 years with the company.
Key Highlights:
- Hawthorne brings over 30 years of manufacturing leadership experience to Waupaca Foundry.
- Previously served as President & CEO at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems and New York Air Brake.
- Holds advanced engineering and business degrees from Clarkson University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Syracuse University.
- Will focus on operational efficiency, innovation, and strengthening customer relationships.
- Succeeds Mike Nikolai, who played a pivotal role in Waupaca Foundry’s growth.
“We’re excited to welcome Mike Hawthorne to the Waupaca Foundry family,” said Daniel Collin, Chairman of Waupaca Foundry. “He brings over 30 years of industry experience and understands the roles that engineering, design, system integration and operational excellence play in achieving breakthrough results. He will build on the strong foundation that Mike Nikolai has left here. We wish Mike Nikolai well and thank him for his contributions to the business.”
Hawthorne expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “I am honored to join Waupaca Foundry and look forward to working with the talented team to build upon the company’s strong foundation. Waupaca Foundry has a long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality products, and I am excited to lead the company into its next growth phase.”
About Waupaca Foundry
Waupaca Foundry is North America’s leading iron casting supplier, serving the automotive, commercial vehicle, agriculture, construction, and industrial markets. The company specializes in gray iron, ductile iron, and austempered ductile iron castings, utilizing advanced manufacturing processes and precision machining.
Headquartered in Waupaca, Wisconsin, Waupaca Foundry operates three foundries in Wisconsin (Waupaca and Marinette) and one in Tell City, Indiana. The company also runs a machining and assembly center and employs approximately 4,000 people.
For more information, visit www.waupacafoundry.com.
Subscribe Today!
Sign up for our weekly eNewsletter and get a free copy of our quarterly digital magazine.
