The Manufacturing Institute recognized Nicole Malson, the owner and president of Stryker, with a Step Ahead Award.
As owner and president of STRYKER, Nicole Malson has led a
successful transformation of a company with deep roots and a longstanding reputation. After purchasing the business, she completed a
full rebrand one year later, evolving Industrial Nameplate, Inc. into STRYKER.
In 2025, STRYKER celebrates 65 years in business, including four years under
its current name—marking both continuity and progress.
More than a change in name, the rebrand signaled a move into a more
modern, resilient era. Nicole led the implementation of the organization’s first
enterprise resource planning system in 2020 and introduced comprehensive
training programs designed to empower employees at every level. She also
directed cybersecurity initiatives to prepare STRYKER for future Cybersecurity
Maturity Model Certification, ensuring the company remains a trusted partner
to the U.S. defense industrial base. Throughout this evolution, Nicole has
balanced innovation and compliance with a people-first leadership approach,
strengthening the company while honoring the foundation on which it was built.
Nicole leads STRYKER with a strong focus on workplace culture, shaped
by her own career path from the shop floor to the president’s office. This
experience drives her deep respect for the contributions of every employee.
She personally championed the rollout of new software systems, working
alongside team members during training to ensure they had the tools,
confidence and support needed to succeed. Recognizing that the company’s
long-term success is powered by its people, Nicole also fosters morale and
connection through team-building activities such as chili cook-offs, taco truck
lunches and axe-throwing outings.
Beyond STRYKER, Nicole is actively involved in the manufacturing community.
She serves on the board of the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance,
collaborating with educators, workforce development groups and state
organizations to strengthen the regional talent pipeline. A founding member
and past vice president of the Northern Wisconsin chapter of Women in
Manufacturing, she is a strong advocate for women entering the industry,
sharing her own career path as an example of what’s possible. Nicole also
participates in the executive coaching organization Vistage, where she
exchanges ideas and best practices with peers to continuously improve her
organization and leadership.
