Jill Lewis, President | Associated Fastening Products & Integrated Packaging | MWFA President
FND INTERVIEW: [Leadership]
The Midwest Fastener Association (MWFA) stands as a pillar of the fastener industry, dedicated to advancing education, fostering professional development, and strengthening connections within the community it serves. As the organization enters a new chapter, the leadership of Jill Lewis marks a significant moment in its ongoing evolution.
In this exclusive interview, Fastener News Desk speaks with Jill Lewis, the newly appointed President of the MWFA, whose extensive industry experience and steadfast commitment to service position her as a guiding force for the association’s future. Lewis shares her perspective on the value of collaboration, the importance of industry engagement, and the strategic initiatives that will shape the MWFA’s direction in the years ahead.
Her thoughtful approach to leadership and unwavering dedication to purpose set the stage for a promising new era.
Jill Lewis, President of the Mid-West Fastener Association
As the fourth female president in the association’s history, Lewis shares her vision for growth, collaboration, and inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.
FND: As the fourth female President in the association’s nearly 80-year history, what does this milestone mean to you? How do you see your leadership contributing to the future of the MWFA?
JILL: This milestone is truly humbling, and it’s a privilege to follow in the footsteps of the remarkable women who came before me in the MWFA’s history. Becoming the fourth female president is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come as an association and how important it is to continue for future generations. It’s an opportunity to honor the legacy of those who paved the way, and to ensure that our work continues to create space for diverse perspectives at every level.
FND: What are you most excited about in your role as both a business leader and association president?
JILL: As president, I see my leadership as an opportunity to continue education for our industry, innovation, and collaboration. My goal is to continue building on the strong foundation laid by past leadership, while also encouraging new ideas, and greater engagement from our community. I believe in a future where the MWFA continues to thrive by empowering all of our members to contribute, grow, and shape the association’s direction. I’m committed to working together with our members to ensure that we remain adaptable, resilient, and at the cutting edge of what’s possible in our field.
The future of the MWFA is bright, and I’m excited to be part of guiding it forward.
What excites me most in my role as both a business leader and association president is the chance to make a real difference by bringing people together and driving positive change. As a business leader, I’m always focused on growth, building strong teams, and staying ahead in a competitive market. But in my role as association president, I have the opportunity to make an impact on a much broader scale—by supporting the growth of our members, facilitating connections, and helping shape the future of our industry.
I’m especially excited about the way these two roles complement each other. I can take insights and experiences from my business role and apply them to the association, and vice versa. This gives me the ability to create solutions and opportunities that benefit both our members and the industry at large.
Most of all, I’m passionate about empowering others—whether that’s through mentoring, helping develop new leaders, or fostering collaborations that lead to growth and innovation. It’s a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy, one that not only strengthens the association but also moves our entire industry forward.
FSTNR Week 2025
FND: FSTNR Week is one of the biggest annual events for the MWFA. Can you share any details on what attendees can expect this year?
JILL: We will start with our unofficial Tough Mudder on Saturday August 23 in Rockford, it’s one of my favorite things to do with my fastener friends to get muddy and help each other get to the finish line together. If you are interested in joining please contact Bobby Wegner from Beacon Fasteners and he will share how to sign up
On Sunday we will be starting the week at the Marriott Lincolnshire with our Bed Build that is very near and dear to all of us on the board, over the last few years we’ve gotten to partake in bed deliveries and this is a meaningful event we do to help children and families in our area. Please join us if you can!
Monday: We’ll kick off the week with several plant tours during the day, followed by our Annual Welcome Mixer in the evening—it’s the perfect opportunity to connect and network!
Tuesday: The big day is finally here! Our Tabletop Show returns, where you can meet and interact with all your favorite Midwest suppliers. The day will wrap up with a Happy Hour to unwind and mingle.
Wednesday: Get ready for some friendly competition at our Golf Tournament—it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with fastener friends!
Other MWFA upcoming events:
Please think about joining us for a Heat Treating and Plating class on April 24th we are also hosting a wine tasting “Taste Da Vine” the same evening! It’s going to be a fun day!
Lastly, one piece of advice I’d offer to the next generation in the fastener industry is this: I am deeply grateful for the individuals who mentored me early in my career. Sadly, many of them are no longer with us, but they took the time to train and guide me, and their lessons continue to shape my growth. If someone is willing to invest their time in you, take that opportunity to learn. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today in this role without their belief in me and their genuine desire to see me succeed in this industry. Their support made all the difference.
– Jill Lewis
About Jill Lewis, President | Associated Fastening Products & Integrated Packaging
As the president of both Associated Fastening Products and Integrated Packaging & Fastener, Inc., I have been leading two successful companies in the industrial supply industry for over five years. I have over 20 years of experience in this field, with a strong background in sales, supply chain management, and daily multi-tasking.
I have a deep knowledge of various markets and a solid network of customers both locally and internationally. I am an accomplished communicator who focuses on building mutually beneficial relationships and delivering value to our clients. I am also a team leader who is committed to the success of my employees, empowering them to develop their skills and understanding of the business and the customer needs. My mission is to provide high-quality products and services that meet the expectations and demands of the industrial supply market to OEM’s and beyond.
LinkedIn: Jill Lewis
WIFI | Women In The Fastener Industry: Jill Lewis, Board Member Since 2021
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