Kristen Shields, president at ink pump manufacturer Graymills Corporation, has been named Supplier of the Year by the Tag & Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI) recognising her involvement in industry initiatives, workforce development efforts and long-term engagement with the label and packaging community.
Ms Shields has spent much of her career in manufacturing and joined Graymills in 1990. The company has been family-owned since 1980. Today, she works alongside her brother, Craig Shields, who serves as chief executive officer. Together, they oversee a 50-employee operation based in a 125,000sqft manufacturing facility in Broadview, Illinois. Graymills develops and manufactures ink pumps, metalworking pumps and parts washers used in label and package printing, as well as in other industrial applications.
During her tenure, Ms Shields has been involved in product development initiatives, industry partnerships and efforts to strengthen Graymills’ position within the label and packaging supply chain. While she did not initially anticipate leading the business, she has taken on an expanded leadership role as the company has continued to evolve.
In addition to her responsibilities at Graymills, Ms Shields has been active in workforce development and industry education. She has supported internship programs, partnerships with local schools and colleges, and career-pathway initiatives aimed at introducing young people to manufacturing careers. She has also participated in programs focused on increasing awareness of opportunities for women in printing and manufacturing.
Ms Shields is involved with the Flexographic Technical Association’s Women in Flexo program and the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association Women Makers group, where she contributes as a mentor and advocate for professional development. These initiatives focus on leadership development, networking and education within the manufacturing sector.
In remarks following the award presentation, Ms Shields acknowledged the role of industry colleagues and mentors in her professional development. “This accomplishment would not have been possible without the lifelong friends, mentors and relationships this dynamic community has given me,” she said. “I am proud to be a leader in this industry and will continue promoting the inclusivity and collaboration that have fuelled my growth as a professional. It reminds us that true influence is built through relationships, advocacy and a commitment to lifting others as you rise.”
Looking ahead, Ms Shields plans to continue focusing on product innovation and workforce investment at Graymills, while monitoring broader industry trends. She has identified areas such as sustainability, regulatory developments, flexible packaging and merger and acquisition activity as factors expected to shape the market in the coming years.
