Remembering Zig

Michael Ziegler (1945-2020)

Friend, Champion, PRIDE Industries CEO for 37 years

Michael Ziegler always said that no one got to PRIDE Industries by accident. And it was through no accident that his force of personality would turn a sleepy nonprofit founded in a church basement into the nation’s leading employer of people with disabilities. Zig’s passion for our mission was contagious. His charismatic, yet zany personality created a fun and rewarding workplace. This is evidenced by all the employees who joined PRIDE Industries and stayed for decades. Zig always had a smile and a joke. He also had a singular focus on growing our business, but always with one goal in mind–creating more jobs for people with disabilities. Zig knew the value of dignity associated with a paycheck. His love for PRIDE Industries, which he called a “complex carbohydrate,” was as big as his love for life. Zig will always be part of the PRIDE Industries family. He will be remembered for his leadership, laughter, and above all, his dedication to giving a hand up to people in need. We love ya, Zig.

On April 28, 2021, we dedicated our Roseville, Calif. headquarters to Mike. A beautiful bronze plaque honoring him is now on display at the building entrance.

Videos

Mike Ziegler introduces PRIDE Industries

Mike Ziegler talks about PRIDE Industries, and the life-changing dignity that comes with a job and a paycheck.

Mike Ziegler, Sacramentan of the Year

In 2011, Michael Ziegler was named Sacramentan of the Year by the Sacramento Metro Chamber. The chamber later honored Zig with the Lifetime Achievement Award.