Operation Action U.P. announces 2024 Award of Excellence recipients
MARQUETTE — Operation Action U.P. will be holding its annual meeting from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on Feb. 13 at Northern Michigan University’s Northern Center Ballroom located at 1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette.
The OAUP annual meeting is open to the public. The fee to attend is $75 for OAUP members and $100 for nonmembers. The event will begin with networking, followed by a welcome message and update from Co-chairs Joe Esbrook and David Paananen.
The four Upper Peninsula businesses receiving the OAUP 2024 Award of Excellence are:
Carmeuse – Port Inland
Carmeuse Americas is a leading manufacturer of lime, limestone and mineral-based products and services used in a variety of industrial, construction and soil improvement applications, and benefits the environment by providing cleaner air and safer water.
Carmeuse and its subsidiaries also offer equipment and services to optimize its customers’ processes, improve safety, provide a reliable supply, and lower carbon dioxide emissions. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Carmeuse Americas has production facilities across the Eastern U.S., Canada and South America with over 2,500 employees.
Hawk Technologies
Hawk Technologies LLC has over three decades of excellence in engineering solutions, mechanical design and drafting services. Since 2007, Hawk has expanded into research and development, resulting in innovative products like a nondestructive testing tool. Under new ownership since 2020, Hawk continues to advance industry-wide solutions through collaborations with U.S. shipyards and the U.S. Navy, demonstrating a commitment to technological innovation to solve complex industry-wide problems.
Independent Machine & Advanced Precision Solutions
Under the leadership of Chris Doyle, Independent Machine Company and Advanced Precision Solutions have become pillars of high-precision manufacturing in the Upper Peninsula. IMC, founded in 1975, revolutionized locomotive maintenance with its Iron Horse Wheel Lathe and remains a leader in rail-industry products. APS complements this legacy with cutting-edge CNC machining for industries ranging from engine components to food-service equipment. Both companies share a commitment to sourcing American-made materials, delivering top-tier quality, and investing in the region’s workforce — demonstrating that world-class manufacturing can thrive in a rural setting.
Marquette Golf Club
Founded in 1926, the Marquette Golf Club is a member-owned recreational business dedicated to providing exceptional golf experiences for its members, guests and the wider Upper Peninsula community.
With two courses spanning 370 acres, the club has received national recognition, including top rankings for its Greywalls Course. Beyond golf, the club is committed to community impact, hosting 15 fundraising events annually and supporting junior golf programs. As it approaches its centennial in 2026, the club continues to plan for an exciting future, including new facilities and expanding its reach as a premier Midwest golf destination.