Written on: August 19, 2025 by ICM
Cheryl Merchant, CEO of Taco Family of Companies, has been named as one of 12 leaders who make up the 2025 class of Women in Manufacturing (WiM) Hall of Fame inductees.
MERCHANT
The WiM Hall of Fame was established in 2019 by the Women in Manufacturing Association to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the manufacturing industry while supporting, promoting and inspiring other women in the field.
Inductees were nominated by colleagues and industry peers, and selected by a judging panel of WiM Executive Committee Board Members, based on their exceptional contributions to the advancement of women in manufacturing.
“This recognition is truly an honor,” said Merchant.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been committed to empowering women in manufacturing, not only to excel in their roles but to lead the way in shaping our industry’s future. At Taco, we believe that diversity of thought, experience, and perspective drives innovation, and I am proud to share this honor with so many inspiring women.”
“Cheryl’s leadership has been transformative for Taco and the broader manufacturing community,” said John Hazen White, Jr., Chairman, Taco Family of Companies.
“She leads with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to empowering others. This recognition from Women in Manufacturing is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her dedication to creating opportunities for women and fostering a stronger, more inclusive industry.”
Merchant, along with the rest of the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees, will be officially recognized during the 15th annual WiM SUMMIT conference, taking place Oct. 12–14 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL.
For more information about the Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame and WiM SUMMIT 2025, visit the WiM website.
