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Michael Happe, the president and CEO of Winnebago Industries, has been named a winner of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Heartland Award.

Honoured for bringing a bold vision to Winnebago Industries when he joined the company in 2016, Michael has led the company through a significant evolution driven by organic and inorganic growth. The acquisitions of Grand Design, Chris-Craft, Newmar, and Barletta, as well as major growth of flagship brand, Winnebago, has created a leading company in the outdoor recreation industry.

Michael said: “I’m humbled and honoured to be recognized among such a strong group of business leaders from across the region. This award really speaks to the collective effort of the incredible team of employees we have at Winnebago industries who work tirelessly to create lasting memories for families and friends, connecting them with the outdoors, one great adventure at a time.”

Winners of the award are selected by an independent judging panel made up of previous award winners, leading CEOs, investors and other regional business leaders. The candidates were evaluated based on their demonstration of building long-term value through entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and impact, among other core contributions and attributes.

“Every year, we are completely blown away by the accomplishments of our Entrepreneur Of The Year Regional Award winners, and 2023 is no different,” said AJ Jordan, EY Americas Entrepreneur Of The Year Program director. “They are change-makers and champions of business and community, and we are so proud to be honouring them. We can’t wait to see how these leaders will continue to improve lives and disrupt industries.”