August 2025 Volume 7

INDUSTRY NEWS

FIA INTERIM PRESIDENT & CEO ANGELA GIBIAN NAMED 2025 PROGRESSIVE WOMAN HONOREE

forging industry and supports the Forging Foundation (FIERF) through book sale proceeds. A strong advocate for professional development, Gibian has earned several industry credentials, including the Digital Event Strategist (DES) certification, ASAE’s Certificate in Association Management, and the prestigious Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation — a recognition held by only a handful of association leaders in Ohio. FIA staff members attended

North America’s largest forging trade show, and has helped to promote key initiatives such as the Women in Forging Committee, NextGen (Young Professionals) Committee, and Forge the Future Summer Camps. She also authored FIA’s first children’s book series, Forging with Freddy , which helps introduce youth to the

the 2025 Smart Women Breakfast & Awards on July 10 to celebrate Gibian’s achievements and the contributions of other women leaders. For more information please visit: https:// sbnonline.com/article/meet-the-2025 smart-women-award-honorees/

T he Forging Industry Association (FIA) is proud to announce that Interim President & CEO Angela Gibian has been named a 2025 Progressive Woman Honoree by Smart Business Magazine. The Smart Women Awards recognize women who are making a difference in their organizations and communities through leadership, innovation, and mentorship. Gibian’s selection as a Progressive Woman Honoree is a reflection of her ongoing efforts to support workforce development, elevate industry visibility, and lead with purpose during a time of transition for FIA. With a background in promotional communications from Cleveland State University, Gibian began her career in event production and nonprofit development before bringing her skills to the manufacturing and trade association sectors. She joined FIA in 2019 and rapidly advanced through leadership positions, including Director of Marketing & Events and Executive Director of the Forging Foundation (FIERF), before being named Deputy Chief Executive in 2023 and Interim President & CEO in 2024. Gibian’s impact on the forging industry has been both strategic and hands-on. She serves as the lead planner for Forge Fair,

FIA MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2025 44