LOUISVILLE, KY – The Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM) announced the 2024 Manufacturer of the Year, Manufacturing Employee of the Year, and Manufacturing Executive Leadership Award winners at the Kentucky Industry Conference Awards Luncheon this afternoon in Louisville.
This is the first year that the Executive Leadership Award has been presented.
The 2024 Manufacturer of the Year Award presented by Brown-Forman Corporation winner is Process Machinery, Inc., in Shelbyville, Kentucky.
Process Machinery has been a leader in the aggregate processing industry for over 45 years, serving as a cornerstone of Kentucky’s business landscape. The company has distinguished itself through its innovation, corporate citizenship, and industry advocacy.
With a relentless focus on pushing the boundaries of technology, Process Machinery exemplifies innovative leadership. From designing custom-engineered solutions to implementing cutting-edge crushing technology, they continually redefine the standards in their field.
A deep commitment to the community is a key part of Process Machinery’s culture. By supporting local schools, donating steel, and funding vocational programs, they are not just investing in their own future but also supporting Kentucky’s next generation of manufacturing talent.
The company also exemplifies business leadership through its advocacy. As active members of influential industry associations, they are consistently at the forefront of safety and workforce development discussions.
The 2024 Manufacturing Employee of the Year Award presented by the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) winner is Matt Pangburn, Construction Services Manager of Process Machinery in Shelbyville, Kentucky.
Collaboration is at the heart of Matt’s work ethic, according to his teammates. He actively fosters teamwork by encouraging open communication and continuous improvement. His monthly shop meetings have empowered employees to redesign safety protocols and improve operational efficiency, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Under his guidance, Process Machinery has become a leader in innovation and teamwork, with a focus on both employee development and client success.
Beyond the workplace, Matt is a dedicated community leader. He volunteers at the International Christian Center, mentoring international teenagers and teaching them essential life skills. His compassion extends to victims of domestic violence, where he provides support through his local church. Additionally, his involvement in youth sports and local community initiatives highlights his commitment to making a positive impact beyond his professional life.
Leadership comes naturally to Matt. He has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of leaders at Process Machinery, mentoring young professionals and equipping them with the skills to succeed. By introducing programs like Stephen Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” Matt has fostered a culture of personal growth and accountability, inspiring his team to continuously innovate and strive for excellence.
The 2024 Manufacturing Executive Leadership Award winner is Donnie Slagle, Vice President of Administration of Toyotetsu America in Somerset, Kentucky.
With a keen focus on innovation, Donnie has, according to his colleagues, driven initiatives that seamlessly integrate Japanese manufacturing principles with American workplace values, fostering a productive and cohesive environment at Toyotetsu America in Somerset. His leadership in developing a custom quoting application revolutionized the company’s sales operations, enhancing both accuracy and efficiency, and has enabled Toyotetsu to stay ahead in a highly competitive market.
Beyond his professional achievements, Donnie’s dedication to the community shines through via his involvement in the Kentucky Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (KY-FAME) Cumberlands chapter. By establishing the chapter, he has provided local students with the opportunity to pursue a technical education while gaining real-world experience, helping them graduate debt-free. The chapter continues to supply the region with highly skilled workers, directly benefiting the local economy.
Throughout his career, Donnie has embodied leadership via ethics, integrity, and a deep commitment to his employees’ well-being. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he ensured the safety of his team by implementing proactive measures, while also safeguarding the continuity of business operations. His dedication to balancing the needs of the company with those of the community exemplifies his role as a trusted and inspiring leader.
Industry Awards Luncheon
The awards luncheon was held at the conclusion of the Kentucky Industry Summit, a joint two-day conference of KAM, the Metals Innovation Initiative, and the GAME Change Engine.
“The United States of America remains the powerhouse economy of the world, and Kentucky’s manufacturing prowess is a key contributor to that strength,” said KAM President and CEO Frank Jemley III. “There are thousands of manufacturing operations across this state, and these awards show just a sample of the great work happening every day in our communities. Our manufacturing award winners – Process Machinery, Inc., Donnie Slagle, and Matt Pangburn – all exemplify what is best about Kentucky and our strength as a commonwealth.”
About the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers Manufacturing Awards
KAM’s manufacturing awards focus attention on the important contributions manufacturers and industry make to their employees, customers, and communities, and the impacts of exceptional manufacturing employees and executives on their companies and communities. These awards showcase the entrepreneurial spirit, community and enterprise leadership, and good citizenship of Kentucky’s top manufacturers and employees that enhance the prosperity of communities across the Commonwealth.
About the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers
Our mission at the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers is to make a better Kentucky by promoting and growing manufacturing and the economic opportunities it creates in the Commonwealth. Learn more at KAM.us.com.
