Chad Larson of Lejeune Bolt Company and Laurin Baker of The Baker Group were recognized with the 2021 Industrial Fastener Institute Soaring Eagle awards.

Lejeune president Larson received the technology award, which is named after Roy P. Trowbridge, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the technological advancement of the industry via work on fastener standards committees; the publication of widely acclaimed principles or documents; and/or through the development of fastener-related equipment, products or processes.

Larson has worked in manufacturing, distribution, sales, production, quality assurance and executive management during his 30 years in the fastener industry.  

Larson was recognized for standards work in structural bolting. He initiated and led the effort to combine six ASTM structural bolt standards into a single coherent standard that has improved standardization of structural fasteners. The ease with which ASTM F3125 was adopted by the entire supply chain is a testimony to his knowledge of the details. His innovative Torque+Angle 144 ksi Fastening System combines improved technologies with appropriate methodologies to achieve an “error-proof” turnkey system for fastener installation and pretensioning, while also simplifying the design of bolted connections.

The meritorious service award, named after George S. Case Sr., recognizes individuals who have contributed outstanding time and effort in the IFI leadership or contributing to the well-being of the industrial fastener industry.

Baker has represented IFI interests in Washington, DC.  His expertise in navigating international trade, tariffs, environmental and tax policies has benefited member companies and fastener users. He provided IFI visibility to the U.S. House and U.S. Senate. He coordinated and led the coalition of IFI members, fastener distributors and North American fastener users resulted in amendments to the U.S. Fastener Quality Act.

Nominations for 2022 awards may be submitted: IndFast.org/info/award.asp.

The IFI represents North American manufacturers of bolts, nuts, screws, rivets, pins, washers and custom formed parts. Suppliers of materials, machinery, equipment and engineered services are associate members.

There are currently 70 company members with 61 subsidiaries and 55 associate members.

The IFI is marking its 90th anniversary this year. Dan Walker is managing director. Email: dwalker@indfast.org Tel: 216 241-1482 Web: IndFast.org