2007 – Saginaw, Michigan
Barbara took over the helm of Mahar Tool Supply in 1978 upon the untimely death of her husband, Jim Mahar, who was the President and owner at the time. Mahar Tool has been a wholesale distributor specializing in metal removal products since 1947. Under Barb’s direction, the company has grown from 2 locations to international presence and has been recognized as one of the “Big 50” largest industrial distributors internationally (ref. ID Magazine). Barbara mentors young business women through her affiliation with the Committee of 200, of which she is also a founding member. C200 is an organization of pre-eminent business women from around the world. Among the many awards she has won, Barb is most proud of receiving the National Woman Entrepreneur Award of the Year in 2000; an award presented by the National Foundation of Women Legislatures and the SBA. In 2004, First Lady Laura Bush chose to visit Mahar Tool corporate headquarters in Saginaw, Michigan during the campaign effort to promote and endorse women in business. Barbara has been a featured speaker in seminars, conferences and leadership programs; often appearing in magazine and news articles. She was recently featured In Interlude Magazine, alongside Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, as a Tri-Cities Leading Lady. Barb, her family, and her employees believe in giving back to the communities that have given so much to them by volunteering time and contributing toward selected causes. She is especially proud of her five children. All of her children have worked for Mahar Tool in various capacities. Her daughter, Carrie, is currently VP of Marketing and her son, Michael, is President. “While listening to the spoken word concerning Northwood University you will notice that all are positive, exemplary, and heartfelt. The University has conducted itself with the highest degree of integrity. Its students are sent into the working world with a superb education and the tools to succeed.”
