The Women’s Industry Network has announced this year’s honoree for the Most Influential Women (MIW) award of the collision repair industry for 2016. After reviewing nominations and interviewing a number of amazing women, one inspirational industry leader was selected to receive the MIW honors — Michelle Sullivan, regional vice president, FinishMaster Inc., Indianapolis.
“The 2016 MIW nominees highlighted the geographic, functional and sector diversity of women who are influencing the collision repair industry today,” said Sandra Herron, owner of MiddlEdge Inc. “I was inspired by each nominee’s industry involvement, professional accomplishments, mentoring of others and community service. Michelle’s record of creating value for companies, developing industry talent and championing charitable causes in her community stood out as exemplary.” Herron’s consulting firm was contracted as a third-party entity to interview the nominees and select this year’s honoree based on specific criteria established by the board of directors.
The Most Influential Women award recognizes women who have enriched the collision repair industry with their leadership, vision and commitment to excellence. “Each year, women from different facets of the collision repair industry are selected for their passion and commitment to progressive and positive evolution of the industry,” said Denise Caspersen, WIN chair. “With so many opportunities for women to have rewarding careers — the sky’s the limit for those with talent, inspiration and a strong work ethic.”
The MIW program’s charter aligns with WIN’s mission to “enhance the role of women in the industry.” Since 1999, the program has recognized 88 women for both their professional accomplishments and for going beyond requirements of their positions to give back to their communities.
“The industry has experienced the positive impact of the women recognized as MIW’s over the past 17 years. This award continues to recognize women who are not only passionate about their work, but also are active in mentoring others to help them advance within our industry,” said Cheryl Boswell, chief financial officer at DCR Systems LLC, a 2015 MIW honoree and co-chair of the 2016 MIW Committee.
Established in 1999 by AkzoNobel, WIN acquired stewardship of the Most Influential Women program in 2013.
When the 2016 WIN Educational Conference convenes in Tampa, Florida, on May 2-4, past and current MIW honorees will be celebrated during a gala awards reception. Registration for the conference and dinner will open mid-March. For more information, go to womensindustrynetwork.com and click on “Conference.”
