Linda Hasenfratz is an influential and inspiring leader whose impact has reached far beyond her community.
As the CEO of Linamar Corporation in Guelph, she has worked hard to build not only a successful company but a strong and diverse team. Her leadership goes beyond business as she is also a passionate supporter of education, health care and women's advancement.
Hasenfratz began her career in 1990 as a machine operator at her father's car parts factory. In 2002, she succeeded her father, Frank Hasenfratz, as CEO of Linamar. Under her leadership, the company expanded from a local operation to a global manufacturing powerhouse with 70 plants in 13 countries across Asia, North America and Europe.
One of her most impactful efforts is founding See it Be it STEM it, a program that encourages more girls and young women to enter and succeed in science, technology, engineering and math careers. This platform opens up important conversations about leadership, gender equality and diversity. It also connects young people with resources and tools that help them explore future careers in STEM.
Thanks to Hasenfratz’s vision, more young women can now imagine themselves in these roles and feel confident about reaching their goals.
For creating opportunities for young women, innovating in her industry and giving back to her community in countless ways, Linda Hasenfratz is truly a deserving winner of this year’s GuelphToday Community Builders Award for Hall of Fame.
“This is a real honour. I’ve always been a big believer in our community,” Hasenfratz shared.
“Supporting our community is very important to us,” she continued. “Whether that be supporting local kids sports teams, the local hospital, or organizations that make Guelph a better, safer, healthier place to live.”
“I’m appreciative that there’s recognition that Linamar and myself are receiving,” she said.
Hasenfratz has uplifted many local initiatives through dedicating her time and resources to supporting them. Her outreach has included becoming the first Chair of the Philanthropy Leadership Cabinet at Guelph General Hospital and a significant donation from Linamar to the hospital that helped purchase critical new equipment for patient care.
Linda Hasenfratz exemplifies what it means to be a true community builder and visionary leader, inspiring countless young women to dream bigger and aim higher. Her contributions continue to make a difference both in business and in the lives of others.
The Hall of Fame award celebrates an individual or group whose visionary efforts have had a profound and lasting impact on the community. Their significant contributions have enriched the fabric of the community, whether through the creation of transformative programs, initiatives or institutions (like festivals, parks or community centres).
Congratulations, Linda!
This award is proudly sponsored by Malamar Construction.
