I’m from Minnesota, where we don’t like to make a fuss or draw too much attention. So it is going against every fiber of my being to write these words: Marine Fabricator won an award.

The Azbees are the American Society of Business Publication Editors Awards of Excellence program. I am proud to share that the “Work smarter, not harder” article featured in the July/August 2025 issue earned a Bronze Azbee award in the Upper Midwest region.

I am fighting the Midwestern urge to chastise myself for being “braggadocious,” despite only writing two sentences, because here’s what I would tell someone else in a similar position: You are entitled to celebrate your wins.

The Marine Fabricators Association (MFA) Fabrication Excellence Awards submission window closes Sept. 30. This is your opportunity as an MFA member to get industry recognition for your hard work, and you deserve it. Don’t listen to the voice in your head trying to dissuade you from putting yourself out there — it’s almost always wrong. And as Michael Scott from “The Office” once said, Wayne Gretzky said you miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take. 

Among the articles in this issue is a column from Kyle Van Damme, MFC, on how to write a strong project description. If you’ve never submitted before, it includes some great tips to consider. 

Don’t forget that the International Achievement Awards (IAAs) submissions deadline is coming up too. If you’ve won MFA Awards in the past, those projects are not automatically entered this year — IAA submissions must be completed separately. Submit by Aug. 28 and don’t miss your chance for wider recognition!

You should be proud of all you’ve achieved. Share your projects and let’s show the industry exactly why.

Brianna Liestman, Senior Editor
+1 612 517 3446
brianna.liestman@textiles.org