Author: Amanda Loveland

Meet Amanda Hutchings

Amanda Hutchings never dreamed her professional journey would lead her to the helm of a successful manufacturing company. Growing up, manufacturing wasn’t even on her radar. Like many young women, Hutchings pursued a creative path, dreaming of becoming an artist.

“I thought I was going to art school, but I ended up getting a degree in marketing,” she shared, laughing at how drastically her career had shifted since her days in college.

Today, as President of Peak Manufacturing, Hutchings reflects on her unexpected journey.

“I was working for a non-profit that was housed in a manufacturing facility,” she explained. “To help cover my salary, I answered phones for the manufacturing company. That was my introduction to the industry.”

Her initial administrative role soon evolved into more responsibilities, as she progressed from office management to quality control, operations management, and eventually, president: a journey through her twenties that cemented her in her role before she even turned thirty.

“I never dreamed in a million years that I’d be the president of a manufacturing company, but I’m grateful for every step of the journey.”

Steps to Success

Hutchings climbed the ladder to success at Peak. The hands-on experience is something that Hutchings values deeply, especially in her leadership role.

“I’ve done the jobs that my team does,” she said. “It’s given me an incredible respect for the roles and the people who hold them. We’re like a big family here. Many of our employees have been with us for 10 to 15 years, working their way up from entry-level positions. We’ve all been there, and we all get it. It’s created a really strong sense of camaraderie.”

But for Hutchings, Peak Manufacturing’s success isn’t just about the bottom line: it’s about building a sustainable future for Jackson’s workforce.

Working for the Future

“I have a very strong desire to help with workforce development, especially for youth,” she emphasized.

Hutchings is passionate about introducing young people to careers in manufacturing, an industry she believes offers many untapped opportunities: especially for young, creative leaders and girls just like her.

Through her involvement with organizations like the Shop Rat Foundation, Hutchings is working to bridge this gap.

“We need to expose kids to these careers early on,” she said. “I actually have an 11-year-old son in the Shop Rat Program right now. He’s learning SOLIDWORKS, the same 3D modeling program that my engineer uses here at Peak. He’s going to be able to 3D print his designs, learning about additive manufacturing. I never imagined that my 11-year-old could be learning the same skills that professionals are using in our company, but that’s the power of these programs.”

Hutchings sees this as critical to filling the growing workforce gap in Jackson, particularly as the older generation of skilled workers approaches retirement.

“We have this huge gap coming up with baby boomers retiring,” she explained. “It’s essential that we have a pipeline of skilled workers ready to step in. That’s why programs like apprenticeships are so important. They allow adults to earn while they learn, and they’re crucial to meeting the needs of industries like ours.”

Working for Women

In addition to advocating for youth, Hutchings is also a vocal proponent of empowering women in their journey to success in manufacturing.

“Only one in four manufacturing leaders are women, and in my experience, it’s even lower than that,” she noted. “There are so many incredible opportunities for women in manufacturing, but we need to do a better job of promoting them. Women can thrive in roles like quality control, engineering, scheduling, and leadership; jobs that don’t always come to mind when people think about manufacturing.”

For Hutchings, being a role model for young women is personal. “I want girls to see the possibilities in this industry,” she said. “There are so many rewarding careers here that don’t get talked about enough. Manufacturing isn’t just about working on machines. It’s about innovation, leadership, and problem-solving. I hope to inspire the next generation of women to pursue these roles and make their mark.”

Working for Our Community

Peak Manufacturing’s commitment to workforce development extends beyond the walls of its own company. Hutchings plays an active role in the broader Jackson community, serving on the board of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.

For her, the connection between a healthy community and a thriving business is clear. “The most important thing for me is taking care of our employees,” she said. “Without them, we couldn’t do what we do. That’s why I’m so committed to making sure our community is a great place for them to live.”

Her involvement with the Chamber of Commerce is a reflection of this passionate dedication. “Being on the Chamber’s board allows me to contribute to the community in a meaningful way,” she shared. “If I can help make our employees’ community stronger and healthier, it benefits everyone. Our success at Peak is directly tied to the success of Jackson as a whole.”

As Hutchings looks to the future, she is optimistic about the role Peak Manufacturing will play in shaping Jackson’s economic landscape. “We’re committed to keeping manufacturing here in Jackson, in Michigan, and in the USA,” she said. “But it’s not just about the products we create -it’s about the people we empower along the way. By investing in workforce development, promoting diversity, and strengthening our community, we’re building something that will last for generations.”

The Story of Stoyanna’s

To Siera Stoyanovitch, Stoyanna’s is more than just a business, it’s a project founded in generational passion. It is a tribute to her family’s enduring legacy of Greek hospitality, exceptional quality, and heartfelt service. The spiritual successor to the Greek Villa, Stoyanna’s provides customers with the unmatched consistency they have come to expect from the Stoyanovitch name, while serving up new twists that keep people coming back.

“The thing I love about my little shop is that I can go outside, and my customers are excited to see me. They really know me! They honk their horns when they drive by and it feels like a kind neighbor. It’s such a good community,” Siera said warmly.

Stoyanna’s catering services ensure customers are satisfied with fresh-baked Greek delicacies and beyond-stellar service punctuated by a commitment to presentation and quality that is unlike any other. Now the excellence expected from Stoyanna’s catering can be found in every cone, sundae, and homemade baked good served à la mode at Stoyanna’s new ice cream stand in Jackson.

“Jackson loves ice cream,” Siera said. “There is a deep history with ice cream here, this is where the waffle cone comes from!”

Siera’s deep connection to Jackson is evident in her love for the community. “I lived in Jackson my whole life. My family came over here when my dad was two years old because there was a big Greek community here. At one time, there were over 200 Greek families in Jackson; now, there are less than 50. It’s amazing that I can continue these traditions in my own way with Stoyanna’s.”

Her knack for crafting culinary delights is deeply rooted in her family history. Her father owned DC’s Pizza, a beloved pizzeria, before the family opened the Greek Villa, which was famous for its delicious Greek dishes and desserts. After her father suffered a debilitating stroke in the late 90s, the Greek Villa closed. Siera sought to reinvent the spirit of her father’s business on her own.

“Everyone would come up to me and tell me how much they loved the Greek Villa. Everyone loved my dad. He was THAT guy! Growing up and seeing how people would treat him, and the response that they had to the Villa; my dream was to bring it all back,” Siera said.

When Siera decided to start her own catering business, she discovered that the ideal location was the very building where DC’s Pizza once thrived. Unaware of the location’s significance, her mother informed her that it was her father that owned and operated out of the building years ago. Sadly, on Mother’s Day, the day after Siera was informed of this connection, her mother passed away. This serendipitous connection to her father’s first venture made her endeavor even more special. She saw it as fate.

Stoyanna’s Catering

Stoyanna’s Catering offers full-service catering and carry-out dining, specializing in authentic Greek cuisine. Their menu features an array of homestyle Greek creations, including baklava, custard, Greek meat pie, souvlaki skewers, gyros, and more. Each dish reflects Siera’s dedication to quality and her Greek heritage.

Stoyanna’s Ice Cream

Next door to the catering service, Stoyanna’s Ice Cream continues another local legacy. Originally Scream n’ Mimi’s, the ice cream shop was entrusted to Siera by its former owner, Mimi, who retired after 20 years. Stoyanna’s Ice Cream delights customers with a unique blend of traditional and Greek-inspired flavors, adding a sweet touch to the Stoyanna’s experience. “I ran the ice cream store like Mimi did. She trained me for a whole year, and I made it my own, putting Stoyanna’s touch on everything,” Siera said.

Stoyanna’s provides more than Greek delicacies and delicious sweets; Stoyanna’s is a celebration of life. You can taste the love put into every bite of baklava and feel the grace of family tradition at every event catered. Stoyanna’s services ensure that every outing is memorable, with a menu tailored to delight guests with a variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. No matter what you order, no matter the occasion, every dish is made with craftsmanship generations in the making and served with a smile.

Why You Should Try Stoyanna’s

The Chamber invites you to experience Stoyanna’s Catering and Ice Cream, where every visit and every occasion is a celebration of heritage, community, and culinary excellence. Whether you’re planning a large outing or looking to beat the heat with a sweet treat, Stoyanna’s is the place to go to fill your heart and feast your appetite.

“Stoyanna’s is great portions, great quality, homemade baked goods with ice cream, and Greek with country personality. I got to start where my dad started, and I just think that was honestly meant to be.”

Visit Stoyanna’s Ice Cream at 5037 Brooklyn Road in Jackson, MI, click here to learn more about their offerings.

Experience Jackson is a proud sister organization to the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. As both a Chamber member and a partner, we are thrilled to support and promote Jackson County’s energy and growth! As Jackson County’s official Convention and Visitors Bureau, you might first think of us as just the tourism cheerleaders. We are much more than that. We are all about making connections, backing local businesses through recommendations, and highlighting our unique community vibe. 

One aspect of what Experience Jackson does is helping you plan events. Whether you’re putting together a business bash, a convention for your industry, or a special soirée, Experience Jackson has got your back. We frequently interact with venues and locations to host your event. Although we love to work with lovebirds seeking the perfect wedding spot; we’re also pros at finding unique venues for small meetings, retreats, and finding overnight lodging at our 15 Jackson County hotels where your guests can comfortably stay. Jackson is a prime spot at the intersection of I-94 and US-127, with much more cost-effective stay and activity options than some of the bigger towns surrounding us. Did we mention free parking? 

For those of you showing off Jackson to clients or potential hires, we’ve got you covered with freebie welcome bags packed with insider info and local goodies. Just make a request. It’s all about making folks feel at home and spreading that Jackson County hospitality. These little gestures don’t just highlight how awesome our community is; they leave a lasting mark on visitors, making them want to dive into all the cool stuff Jackson County has going on. If you’re looking to plan an event, we can provide insight into catering or food truck options, and even help you find a date when there are otherwise gaps on the calendar. We love to see events that run concurrently work together and offer a partnership – whether through promotion or coordination to visiting audiences.  

We’re not just event planning connectors; we’re also familiar with all the cool attractions and activities around Jackson County. From group-friendly eateries to team-building adventures, we’re all about making sure visitors make memories while supporting our local businesses and showing off what makes Jackson County so special. Through teamwork with our partners, we’re shining a spotlight on the local flavor that keep folks coming back for more – whether that be literal flavor at one of our many delicious restaurants, enjoying the Bright Walls murals, enjoying the summertime lights over the Cascades Falls, horseback riding in Grass Lake, or browsing the shops in a village like Brooklyn. We even coordinate Stay & Play packages for golfers wanting to get out on the greens.

At Experience Jackson, we’re all about serving up a buffet of services for event planners and locals alike. Whether you need some personal touch or just want to dive into all things Jackson, we’re here for you. Send us an email at Admin@ExperienceJackson.com or call us at (517) 764-4440. Our crew is on deck Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to help craft the retreat or experience that’s just right for you.  

We’ve recently compiled a Corporate Meetings Guide that’s free to download on our website.

Together, we’re building a brighter, richer future for everyone through creating connections and being a resource for the perfect, memorable trip and experience in Jackson County. 

Let us introduce you to Ron and Amy Proffitt, proud Founders of Come to Your Effin Senses, a Veteran built, woman-owned family business that began in 2021 in the heart of Brooklyn, Michigan. They combine good smells with bad words to create unique, handmade candles that you can find online, at markets throughout Michigan, at retail partners throughout the country, and at their brick & mortar located in Brooklyn, Michigan.

Chamber staff got to talk with the Effin Team to learn about their business, as well as what they plan for their brick & mortar’s one year celebration.

When did you start Come To Your Effin’ Senses and why did you start the business? We started Come to Your Effin Senses three years ago out of our home during the middle of the pandemic. We originally started making the candles as gifts and were encouraged to sell them. We listed our candles on Facebook Marketplace and within 15 minutes, we had our first wholesale order. Three months later, we moved into a production site, which is now connected to our storefront.

When did you open the brick and mortar, and what have you learned since opening your doors? We opened the brick and mortar in April of 2023. Since opening our doors, we have learned how to curate items from other artists while staying true to our vibe. Something else we have learned is how to create an inventory system and become efficient with production, since a lot of the products in our store we make ourselves. There is a lot to having a brick and mortar, so we have a lot to still learn.

If you were giving advice to a business owner going from e-commerce to brick and mortar, what advice would you give? Get engaged in your community because the relationships you build are just as important as the products that you make. Don’t be afraid to take risks, and if there are things you don’t know, don’t be afraid to lean on someone who does. Also, remember to have fun. Brick and mortars are a great avenue for creativity.

How about advice for someone running a business with their whole effin’ family? Don’t do it…just kidding. Communication as business partners is very different from communication with family. We have had to learn our lanes and stay in them (yes, we are still working on this). Making sure everyone feels valued and heard is extremely important. Making time for team meetings helps ensure everyone is on the same page.

What’s your favorite product in the shop, and why? Amy’s favorite product in the shop is any shirt with words. Whether it’s our own merch or an artist who shares a similar sense of humor. Mads’ favorite product is the sugar scrubs. They not only feel amazing, they make a great addition to care packages. Ron’s favorite product is our candles. He handmakes all of them with pride, science and care. It makes him happy to see others love and appreciate the product he works so hard on. 

What can we expect in the next 1-3 years? Lots of growth! We are branching out to different areas with our vendor shows, we have built up a robust offering on Faire for our wholesale customers, and are collaborating with more businesses throughout the US. We hope to become a destination storefront for Michiganders and beyond.

When you stop into Come to Your Effin Senses at 124 S. Main Street (Brooklyn, MI), you’ll find far more than just their naughty candles. According to owners Amy & Ron Proffit, “we are more than makers or creators. For us, it’s about the relationships we build, and the experience customers have with our brand. Life is too short to be taken seriously, and we love to make people laugh!”

Join the Effin Team and the Chamber of Commerce on April 11, 2024 to celebrate one year of the Come to Your Effin Senses brick & mortar location! Store opens at 10am, ribbon cutting occurs at 11am with Irish Hills Chamber of Commerce, and late night shopping is available with snacks and drinks starting at 4pm.

The Community Choice Foundation is excited to fulfill its mission to award $100,000 in scholarships to 25 outstanding students who Give Big in their community. Students applying for in state colleges, universities, or trade schools can apply for scholarships through February 29, 2024.

In the credit union spirit of “People Helping People”, Community Choice Credit Union wants to see how applicants volunteer in the community. Students can submit their volunteer work with a thoughtful essay and video (video editing, music, people, and creativity is allowed)! It’s encouraged that students explain how they plan to give back and have an impact on their community after graduation.

“Our goal is to make education accessible for these young minds, igniting the spark of potential that will shape the future of Michigan,” said Marketing Campaign Specialist, Ashley Chynoweth.

Applicants must commit to staying in Michigan, which positively impacts our workforce and ensures a growing pool of qualified employees in our future. Community Choice Foundation will be accepting Scholarship Applications from January 1-February 29.