The 2026 Class of Leaders includes the following:

Mold Designer of the Year 2026 – Mr. Rob Doorakkers of IGS GeboJagema – Eindhoven, the Netherlands. Mr. Doorakkers holds an MTS in Mechanical Engineering and is the Chief Innovation Officer within his company. Rob has worked in the industry for over 40 years and is involved in student training at AVANS Hogeschool in Breda, the Netherlands. The award is sponsored by Progressive Components Inc – Wauconda, IL USA.

Mold Maker of the Year 2026 – Mr. Christopher MacDonald of Faith Tool and Manufacturing – Willoughby, OH – USA. Mr. MacDonald is a 2nd generation Mold Maker and lead man within his company. He holds Journey Level credentials as a Mold Maker/CNC Machinist from the Ohio-US Department of Labor.  The award is sponsored by HASCO America Inc – Fletcher, NC USA.

Mold Repair-Maintenance Technician of the Year 2026 – Mr. Steve Carr – Plastikos Erie – Erie, PA – USA. Mr. Carr is a 44-year veteran of the industry and mentor to many within the company and region. He holds Journey Level Credentials from the Pennsylvania – US Department of Labor. Steve is a 25 year employee at Plastikos Erie.  The award is sponsored by MoldTrax LLC – Ashland, OH USA.

Apprentice of the Year 2026 – Ms. Sarah Morgan – ADLER/R & D Leverage – Lee’s Summit, MO – USA. Ms. Morgan is a 3rd Year Apprentice Mold Maker withing the R & D Leverage training program. She is a regular speaker within the local school districts addressing STEM Programming and Women in Manufacturing. The award is sponsored by PCS Company – Fraser, MI USA.

These awards are presented annually by the division to individuals that exhibit leadership in their respective craft. Nominations are open to members of the industry around the world. SPE membership is not a prerequisite for consideration. Evaluation Criteria include:

• Contribution to the Industry
• Positive Business Influence
• Demonstrated Expertise in related Craft
• Continuous Learning – and (for Apprentices) Current Grade Point Average
• Contribution to Society
• Mentorship 

For additional information about the recipients or the awards, please contact Mr. Scott Peters – Mold Technologies Division Chair, at Scott.Peters@MoldedMarketing.com or +1.330.201.3751.