Carol Johnson, Southern Indiana Business Report
WASHINGTON – The CEO of a Washington manufacturing company received the Emerging Leader award at the 2025 Indiana Manufacturing Excellence Awards presented by the Indiana Manufacturers Association Oct. 1.
Jordan Sherman is CEO of NASCO Industries, which manufactures outerwear for the workplace, with an emphasis on safety, quality, comfort and innovation. NASCO products are worn by utility and industrial workers who need protection from chemicals and the elements.
Sherman began his career at NASCO as the company’s accounting manager in 2014. He earned his Certified Managerial Accountant designation in 2015 and completed the Daviess County Community Leadership program in 2016.
In 2020 he was promoted to CFO and was named NASCO Industries CEO this past January.
His nominator described him as a “force to be reckoned with” as a professional leader and also an active leader in the community. His community service includes the United Way of Daviess County, Daviess Community Hospital Foundation and he’s a member of the Daviess County Airport.
He also enjoys coaching youth sports and previously served as an IHSAA soccer referee.
The Emerging Leader award recognizes and honors a new manufacturing leader who has been involved in the industry for less than 10 years. The Emerging Leader award is bestowed upon someone for exceptional contributions to the industry and the potential for future accomplishments within Indiana manufacturing. The award also signifies distinguished service to the IMA and other professional organizations, as well as the pursuit of continued professional development and participation in community and civic affairs.
“Daviess County (Indiana) and NASCO Industries are blessed by Jordan Sherman’s talents and his servant leadership style,” writes his nominator.
The 2025 Manufacturing Day Celebration was held at the Biltwell Event Center in Indianapolis. The event kicked off with a reception, followed by lunch. Keynote speaker at the luncheon was Barry LaBov, founder and CEO of LABOV Marketing Communications and Training, whose clients include Harley-Davidson and Audi of America.
The event is IMA’s celebration of Manufacturing Day, an observance that shines a light on the impact of US manufacturers.
During October, manufacturers open their doors for tours, demonstrations and visits from local schools to promote careers in the industry. Students learn about modern manufacturing and the job opportunities available.
Award recipients
The following 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees were honored for their long-time commitment, investment and ongoing growth to elevate Indiana’s manufacturing sector and economy.
- Dart Controls, Inc. (Zionsville)
- Grain Millers (Marion)
- Steel Dynamics, Inc. (Indiana operations)
2025 Manufacturing Excellence Awards winners:
Community Impact Award: Cleveland-Cliffs (Indiana operations)
Emerging Leader Award: Jordan Sherman, NASCO Industries, Inc. (Washington)
Manufacturing Talent Champion Award: Perfecto Tool & Engineering Co., Inc. (Anderson)
Outstanding Woman Leader in Manufacturing Award: Kimberly Perkins, Amatrol (Jeffersonville)
Safety Champion Award: Kristin Jarrett, dormakaba (Indianapolis)
Lifetime Achievement Award: Ron, Steve and Rick Overton, Overton Industries, Inc. (Mooresville)