ISFA Lauds Werstler With Top 2011 Honor

OREM, Utah – Todd Werstler is the recipient of this year’s top award from the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA).

The industry group honored Werstler, of Tower Industries in Massillon, Ohio, with the Hall of Fame Award, given to those making significant contributions to the decorative-surfacing industry in their careers, and demonstrating leadership and commitment to the ideals of ISFA.

The ISFA cited Werstler for his imagination, innovation, enthusiasm and devotion to the association, and the decorative-surfacing industry in general. He served on the ISFA board of directors for many years in a number of positions, including president, and donated considerable time and effort promoting the industry and ISFA.

The association also honored Craig Francisco of The L.E. Smith Company in Bryan, Ohio, as Fabricator of the Year for 2011. In addition to his dedication to growing awareness of decorative laminate across the country, Craig also promotes the benefits of ISFA membership and a leader in the use of social media and education. He led the transformation of L.E. Smith into lean manufacturing, with more than 5,000 combined hours invested in staff training.

Integra Adhesives of Abbotsford, B.C., received the Associate of the Year Award for the development of a new miter system, and for proactively looking for new ways to improve the industry.

The ISFA presented its Innovator Award for 2011 to Jon Olson of Sterling Surfaces in Sterling, Mass., for his tireless efforts in promoting the industry, solid surface and ISFA through a variety of social-networking initiatives.

Dan Louis of Laser Products Industries in Romeoville, Ill, received this year’s Envision Award, given to a manufacturer member who excels in creating something imaginative and special for the surfacing industry. The group cited Louis’ passion for teaching fabricators not only about his products, but also industry trends that could help their businesses to be more profitable.

The ISFA presented the awards during its annual meeting this fall in Las Vegas.

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