2025 Bernard C. Radde Distinguished Service Award: Rick Blake

After starting his small manufacturing company in St. Joseph in 2001, Rick Blake has grown Edgewater Automation into a thriving enterprise spanning multiple locations including Buchanan, South Carolina, and expanded operations in St. Joseph. Under his leadership, Rick and his team consistently deliver innovative automation and manufacturing solutions.

Rick’s educational journey began at Lake Michigan College. “I think I ended up at five schools and got my Master’s degree at Cornerstone University, but LMC was part of my journey,” Blake reflected. This early foundation proved to be the beginning of a lasting partnership.

Rick’s relationship with LMC has flourished, driven by his commitment to developing local talent. He credits much of his company’s success to the College’s programs. “Our success over the years was because of the career-technical education, apprenticeship program, and the ability of Lake Michigan College to train people on the fundamentals.”

His dedication to education has earned him the Bernard C. Radde Distinguished Service Award for significantly advancing LMC’s mission.

“I am humbled by this honor,” Rick said. “I want to find ways to continue to do more good work with the College in the future.”

Through Edgewater Automation and his LMC collaboration, Rick exemplifies how business leadership and educational partnership create meaningful career opportunities throughout Southwest Michigan.