The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) announced it has selected Michelle Sullivan, regional vice president of FinishMaster, Inc., in Indianapolis, to receive the honor of Most Influential Women (MIW) of the collision repair industry for 2016.
“The 2016 MIW nominees highlighted the geographic, functional and sector diversity of women who are influencing the collision repair industry today,” said Sandra Herron, owner of MiddlEdge, Inc. “I was inspired by each nominee’s industry involvement, professional accomplishments, mentoring of others and community service. Michelle’s record of creating value for companies, developing industry talent and championing charitable causes in her community stood out as exemplary.”
Herron’s consulting firm was contracted as a third-party entity to interview the nominees and select this year’s honoree based on specific criteria established by the board of directors.
The MIW award recognizes women who have enriched the collision repair industry with their leadership, vision and commitment to excellence.
“Each year, women from different facets of the collision repair industry are selected for their passion and commitment to progressive and positive evolution of the industry,” said Denise Caspersen, WIN chair. “With so many opportunities for women to have rewarding careers, the sky is the limit for those with talent, inspiration and a strong work ethic.”
The MIW program’s charter aligns with WIN’s mission to “enhance the role of women in the industry.” Since 1999, the program has recognized 88 women for both their professional accomplishments and for going beyond requirements of their positions to give back to their communities.
“The industry has experienced the positive impact of the women recognized as MIWs over the last 17 years,” said Cheryl Boswell, chief financial officer at DCR Systems, LLC, a 2015 MIW honoree, and co-chair of the 2016 MIW Committee. “This award continues to recognize women who are not only passionate about their work, but also are active in mentoring others to help them advance within our industry.”
