The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) announced that U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), U.S. Rep. Brad Finstad (R-Minn.), U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) have been selected as recipients of AEM's 2026 Champion of the Industry Award.
This year's recognition marks Fischer's second Champion of the Industry Award, reflecting her enduring support for policies that strengthen America's industrial competitiveness.
Presented annually to a bipartisan group of congressional leaders, AEM's Champion of the Industry Award recognizes policymakers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing policies that strengthen America's manufacturing base and promote economic growth in communities across the country.
"The equipment manufacturing industry builds a stronger, more prosperous future for America, and that future depends on leaders who are willing to stand up for the people who make progress possible," said Kip Eideberg, AEM senior vice president of government and industry relations. "Representatives Budzinski and Finstad and Senators Duckworth and Fischer have earned this recognition through their unwavering commitment to policies that empower equipment manufacturers to innovate, compete globally, create family-sustaining jobs and invest in the communities they call home. They are true champions of the industry and of the workers who keep America moving forward."
The Champion of the Industry Award is AEM's highest recognition for public servants. Recipients are selected by AEM's Government and Public Affairs Committee for their support of legislative priorities critical to the equipment manufacturing industry, including workforce development, tax competitiveness, infrastructure investment and rural economic development.
"Manufacturing is a cornerstone of the U.S. workforce and economy," said Sen. Fischer. "I'm honored to receive this award again and proud of what we can accomplish when we work together."
"At a time when manufacturers face increasing global competition and economic uncertainty, strong bipartisan leadership matters more than ever," said Brian Bieller, chair of AEM's Government and Public Affairs Committee.
The awards were presented during AEM's annual Washington Fly-In, which brings equipment manufacturing executives and industry leaders to the nation's capital to engage policymakers on issues affecting the industry's future competitiveness and growth.
