Book Manufacturers’ Institute Announces 2026 Award Winners and New Board Members
The Book Manufacturers’ Institute (BMI) has announced the latest recipient of the Signature Award, as well as three new members to the Cased-in Club.
The honors, which were presented Monday evening November 9th at the Awards Banquet at the Fall Annual Conference in St. Petersburg, Florida, recognize BMI members who not only contribute to the success of their organization, but also to the continued success of the book manufacturing industry.
Matt Baehr, Executive Director of BMI, said, “Every book that reaches a reader carries the work of people like this year’s honorees. Their skill, leadership and commitment have shaped how books are made in this country, and we’re proud to recognize the lasting difference they’ve made for our members and the entire industry.”
The Signature Award, given to a BMI member who has made a valued contribution to the welfare of the industry and/or the Institute through the display of superior leadership qualities on an issue of particular concern to the industry or, for exhibiting such qualities over an extended period, was awarded to Steve Fyfe of Magnum Digital Solutions.
Membership in the Cased-in Club is awarded each year to BMI members who have served in the industry for more than 20 years and have worked with the BMI with distinction. The 2025 recipients of this privilege are: Jim McCafferty of Ecological Fibers, Chris Kurtzman of the CJK Group and Charlie DelVecchio, formerly of White Birch Paper.
When asked about the awards, Bill Rojack, President of BMI, said, “Coming together each fall to honor our own is one of the best traditions in this industry. This year’s recipients have given their time, talent and leadership not only to their companies but to all of us who make books. We are better as an industry because of them.”
BMI also held its Annual Meeting at the event which ushered in three new BMI Board Members. Ravinder Birdi of USGPO, Yale Goldis of HP, and Jorge Velasco of BR Printers joined the BMI Board for three-year terms. Rolling off the Board were Jonathan Jacobsen of Bridgeport National Bindery, Carlos Martins of Muller Martini, Rick Lindemann of Total Printing Systems, and Clark Matthews.