The National Fastener Distributors Association (NFDA) named the late Marc Strandquist as its Fastener Professional of 2024.
In his nomination, Doug Ruggles stated: “I don’t know anyone who has had a broader impact on the industry driving professionalism, growth, and a commitment to giving back. He was beloved by his team and customers because of his ability to connect with them and truly care for their goodwill.”
Strandquist graduated from Guilford High School in 1980 and Southern Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in 1984. He served in the U.S. Army as an officer with 10 years in the National Guard and Army Reserves serving in Operation Desert Storm at Ft. Benning, GA, and retired as a Captain. He married Vonda in 1986 and together they celebrated 37 years and raised three kids, two of whom are carrying on the name in the fastener world.
Strandquist started his fastener career as a salesman in 1986 and worked his way up to CEO of two different global fastener companies: Wurth Industry North America and Optimas Solutions. He was in the fastener industry for 37 years in various roles; both distribution and manufacturing. He prided himself on creating positive work cultures and employee engagement.
“Marc was the consummate businessman who could relate to people and circumstances at every level, from warehouse employees to C-suite executives,” the NFDA stated. “He knew how to bring individuals together to solve problems and move the business forward. Marc helped craft some of the largest and most complex contracts in the fastener industry. His work in mergers and acquisitions added many strategic and synergistic companies to his management portfolio.”
Strandquist served as NFDA president from 2016-2017.
“He was driven to mentor and guide people in their careers and helped many people grow and develop over the years.”
Over his lifetime he was involved with many community organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, Junior Achievement, and the YMCA. He also ran the Madison Ohio YMCA Indian Guides Program and along with his family was voted Family of the Year. Marc coached Little League baseball for more than 20 years in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Ontario. He was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jackson, TN.
Strandquist was a lifelong hunter and fisherman. He loved his hunting dogs, especially Gunther. He also enjoyed traveling the world and was known for his deep trivia knowledge. Marc loved military history and science fiction and was an avid Star Trek fan and a lifelong Packers fan.
Strandquist died last August.
The Strandquist family will accept the NFDA Fastener Professional of the Year award in his memory at the NFDA Annual Meeting & ESPS® in Irving, TX, on June 13.
The Marc Strandquist Memorial Scholarship Fund was created to honor his passion for education and mentorship. Donations can be sent to NFDA, 3020 Old Ranch Parkway #300, Seal Beach CA 90740. Web: nfda-fastener.org
