Operation Action U.P. (OAUP) will be holding its Annual Meeting on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
The event is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time at Northern Michigan University’s Northern Center Ballroom (1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI 49855).
The OAUP Annual Meeting is open to the public. The fee to attend is $75 for OAUP members and $100 for non-members. 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, 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 CO2 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 (Hawk) 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 non-destructive 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 (APS)
Under the leadership of Chris Doyle, Independent Machine Company (IMC) and Advanced Precision Solutions (APS) 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, 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.
Additional Highlights
Along with the award ceremony, attendees will hear from Sue Hawkes, CEO of YESS! and Expert EOS® Implementer, who will deliver a dynamic and inspirational keynote presentation. Designed specifically for growth-oriented business leaders, Sue’s talk will address common challenges faced by small businesses. These include struggles such as a lack of control over time, markets, or the company, difficulties with team members who don’t listen or follow through, inconsistent profits or insufficient revenue, and growth plateaus that seem impossible to overcome. Many leaders also experience frustration from quick fixes that fail to bring lasting results.
In her interactive session, titled “Get a Grip On Your Business,” Sue will introduce attendees to the Six Key Components™ of a successful business. With real-world insights and practical tools, this workshop is designed to help leadership teams focus on priorities, gain clarity on pressing issues, and work together more effectively as a healthier, more aligned team. By the end of the session, attendees will leave with actionable strategies to regain control of their businesses, drive consistent growth, and achieve meaningful progress. This is a must-attend event for anyone looking to transform their business operations and elevate their success.
Rounding out the Annual Meeting, the afternoon will spotlight the impactful work being done in the region with the presentation of the U.P. Economic Development Alliance (UPEDA) Award to the NMU Center for Rural Health.
Pre-registration for the OAUP Annual Meeting is required. Register online at operationactionup.com/events, by email at operationactionup@gmail.com, or by contacting the Lake Superior Community Partnership at 906-226-6591.
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