CEO & Founder, Moran Iron Works and Industrial Arts Institute
Thomas Moran started Moran Metal Iron Works, a metal fabrication firm, after graduating from high school in 1978. Today, the company employs nearly 100 people at four Michigan locations, and was recognized as a Patriotic Employer from the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Moran Iron Works received “Michigan’s 50 Top Companies to Watch” designation from the Lowe Foundation in 2012. In 2013, Tom was awarded Business Champion of the Year from Great Start Coalition. His company was also awarded Business of the Year 2013 from the Cheboygan and Onaway Chamber of Commerce, and Economic Project of the Year from the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance.
In 2014, Tom-an Onaway, Michigan native-recognized a shortage in skilled labor employees, and founded the Industrial Arts Institute. This premier trade school offers welding, electrical, plumbing, carpentry and HVAC certifications, and to date has graduated more than 100 students with multiple program certifications.
In addition to his businesses, Tom is a passionate artist. He creates ornamental sculptured metal art, which he has donated to numerous non-profit organizations, museums and educational facilities for display and fundraising initiatives.
Tom was appointed to the Executive Committee of the Michigan Economic Development Committee by Michigan Governor Rick Snyder. He is also a former director of McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital, Regional Prosperity Initiative Chair of Michigan’s Region 2, and the American Red Cross. He and his wife, Marilyn, reside in Onaway, Michigan.
Master SCUBA diver and motorcyclist.
*All biographical information is only current up to the date of the award.
