TROY, Mich., Sept 12, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Automation Alley, Michigan's largest technology association driving growth in Southeast Michigan's economy, announced the winners of its Eighth Annual Awards Gala at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn on Friday, September 12. Winners include Robert C. Stempel, former chairman and CEO of Energy Conversion Devices and General Motors and Kenneth J. Matzick of Beaumont Hospitals.

Stempel was selected as Legend CEO (Lifetime Achievement Award) for his tireless dedication to the automotive and alternative energy industries.

Matzick, named CEO of the Year, is responsible for Beaumont Hospitals, a $1.8 billion regional, not-for-profit health care provider that consists of three hospitals, a research institute, more than a dozen community-based medical centers, five nursing centers, home care and hospice services.

"The winners tonight reflect what Southeast Michigan is all about -- entrepreneurship, collaboration and greatness," said Ken Rogers, executive director. "Each is a positive force that is leading the way for Southeast Michigan's new technological economy. Automation Alley is proud to support and recognize these individuals and companies for their continuous efforts in ensuring that the region thrives and is a great place to conduct business."

    Additional award winners include:
    Emerging Leader: Dilip Dubey, CEO, Netlink (Madison Heights)

    Automation Alley Member of the Year: Stephen Cassin, executive
    director, Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic
     Development (Mt. Clemens)

    Technology Company of the Year: Adaptive Materials, Inc. (Ann Arbor)

    Emerging Technology Company of the Year: MIST Innovations, Inc.(Detroit)

    Educational Program of the Year: Southeast Michigan Community College
    Consortium Centers of Expertise

    Non-Profit of the Year: Inforum (Detroit)

Winners were chosen based on submitted nomination packages that are reviewed and evaluated by a pre-selected committee.