President, Artisan Tile, Inc.
Chair, Northwood University Board of Trustees
Jen Panning is a business leader and entrepreneur whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to hard work, craftsmanship, and opportunity. Raised in Hartland, Michigan, she developed an early entrepreneurial spirit, launching her first business, a newspaper route, at just nine years old, where she gained firsthand experience in customer service, billing, and operations.
Encouraged to pursue higher education, Jen found her path at Northwood University, where she worked her way through college with the help of a private donor scholarship. After beginning her career in the corporate world, she soon realized her passion for ownership and, in 1995, co-founded Artisan Tile Inc. with her late husband, Scott, using a small loan and a borrowed truck.
Under Jen’s leadership, Artisan Tile grew into one of Michigan’s premier specialty contractors, contributing to major projects including Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Little Caesars Arena, the Shinola Hotel, and the GM Renaissance Center, as well as numerous universities across the state. She credits the company’s success to the exceptional craftsmanship of its crews and the strong foundation built alongside her late husband and father.
Deeply committed to giving back, Jen and Scott established the Artisan Tile Endowed Scholarship at Northwood University to support middle-income students. She also founded Light of the World Academy, reflecting her dedication to faith, education, and community. Today, Jen continues to lead with purpose while remaining most proud of her family and the opportunities she has helped create for others.
