John Phillips receives prestigious ASB award

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John Phillips receives prestigious ASB award

24 Feb 2026

Maddie Lambert

Maddie Lambert is a copywriter and editor from Joplin, MO. She graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English – literary studies. When she’s not poring over the magazine or lost in the pages of a new novel, you can find Maddie exploring her local bookstores, spending time with her husband, or sharing her latest literary discoveries with fellow book enthusiasts.

CHICAGO — During BakingTECH 2026, the American Society of Baking (ASB)’s annual conference, the association announced John Phillips as the 2026 recipient of the Robert A. Fischer Award.

The prestigious award recognizes his exceptional leadership, sustained service and transformative contributions to the commercial baking industry. With a career spanning more than 40 years, Phillips has greatly impacted baking operations, workforce development and professional leadership. His career began in 1978 with Thomas’ English Muffins, then transitioned to Schwebel Baking Co., where he held a 26-year tenure and oversaw operations across three facilities.

“John Phillips represents everything we hope to see in ASB volunteers: dedication, humility, professionalism and a genuine desire to support others.” — Matt Bowers | American Society of Baking | board chair

“John Phillips represents everything we hope to see in ASB volunteers: dedication, humility, professionalism and a genuine desire to support others,” said Matt Bowers, ASB board chair. “His contributions — both visible and behind the scenes — have strengthened our society and inspired our members. ASB is better because of John, and it is a privilege to honor him with the Robert A. Fischer Award.”

As a member of ASB since 1989, Phillips served as ASB Board Chair in 1998, helping steer the society through its phases of growth and modernization. He’s credited with the organizational name change that occurred during his time as chair. Under his leadership, the organization changed its name from the American Society of Bakery Engineers to its current name, recognizing the advancements and expansion of the baking industry.

He also served as interim chair of the Baking Hall of Fame Selection Committee in 2024-25, contributing strategic insight and organizational clarity to the nomination and selection processes.

For decades, Phillips has also contributed meaningfully to ASB tradition by leading the invocation during BakingTECH’s opening sessions, grounding the industry’s most significant annual gathering in reflection and gratitude.

The Robert A. Fischer Award honors individuals whose sustained contributions have significantly advanced ASB and the baking profession as a whole. Combined with his leadership most recently at Lesaffre, Phillips’ service to ASB stands as a definitive reflection of the award’s mission.

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