PITTSBURGH, PA – January 6th, 2026 – Michael “Mike” Michna, founder and CEO of Innovative Controls Inc., passed away on Monday, January 5th, 2026, after a valiant battle with brain cancer.
In 1993, after several years as a successful sales representative of industrial controls, Mike founded Innovative Controls. He took immense pride in his company, one that has now grown to become an industry leader in both mechanical and electronic apparatus control, diagnostic, and identification products. Mike’s ultimate goal was to “Change the Face of Apparatus Controls” and he suceeded.
Mike viewed his relationships with apparatus OEMs as partnerships - not as transactional. His efforts resulted in long-term trust and respect throughout the industry. Mike’s willingness to develop and supply custom solutions to customers set Innovative Controls apart from others. Mike had equal pride and gratitude serving large and small OEMs - whether it was receiving the Pierce Supply Chain Achievement Award in 2019 or just receiving a “thank you” phone call after a rush order from a manufacturer who builds 10 trucks per year.
Michna left a profound mark on this industry. His legacy, in part, is the company that he built, the work ethic that he instilled in others, and the respect that he so rightfully earned. He will be remembered for his drive and ambition, his vision for a better product, his dedication to his employees, his laughter, and his joy.
Mike will forever be missed by many - including his family, friends, and 85 of his loyal employees that he leaves behind.
Remembering Mike
Join us in celebrating Mike's life and legacy.
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"I met Mike in 1997 and was immediately drawn to his engaging personality and competitive nature. Mike liked to win, and it was a driving force behind his success. I admired his willingness to take chances, and strive for perfection. Mike was adorably finicky and adequately punctual. He was my boss, but I'll remember him more as my friend, because he treated me that way - right from the start. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family and all of his friends that, like me, are hurting. RIP my friend, boss, and brother."
"My fondest childhood memory growing up was going to the office with my dad on Saturday. Mike would always be there...waiting with a box of doughnuts and that million-dollar smile. He was like an uncle to me. We both shared a love for football, baseball, and personal fitness. I will forever be grateful for the memories and precious time I was able to spend with him. I give my sincere condolences to his friends and the Michna family. His legacy will live on forever."
"Big Mike's courage and spirit touched so many. His dedication, positivity, and passion were an inspiration. My thoughts are with his son Michael and thinking of all of you who shared life with Big Mike and loved him so deeply. I´ll always remember how Big Mike lit up the room after every tough ride, encouraging everyone around him. He made us all better - on and off the bike."
"It´s been many years since I worked for Innovative Controls... but I reflect often on that chapter of my life and the people who made an impact. I learned a great deal from the owners, especially Mike. He shared wisdom in many ways-sometimes intentionally or sometimes simply through his actions and the way he treated others. He had a genuinely kind, caring heart, a great sense of humor, and a spirited appreciation for competition. I know he is deeply missed. I want to share my sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire IC family."
"I was fortunate enough to have gotten to know Mike over the past 12 years. I was trying to sell him a piece of equipment and not once but twice he canceled his orders and went another direction. Normally, that would end a relationship but that was actually our anchor. Rather than speaking about equipment every time I stopped in, it became more about how he’s doing, what he does outside work and just about anything other than equipment. Many times I left IC with great advice and real life lessons."
"Mike was such a kind and wonderful person and he made sure he knew who I was and knew my name before we were even introduced face to face. His smile was infectious and he never let his struggles affect his daily work life. He was a true warrior! I consider myself lucky to have been able to have met and worked alongside him. My deepest condolences go out to his family during these trying times."
"Mike was unlike any other. So many great memories of how he interacted with all of us in the print shop at IC. He loved stirring the pot with which one of us was his favorite. We are going to miss him so very much, he was the absolute best!"
"I appreciated his attitude and you could sense his leadership by watching the growth of Innovative Controls and interacting with his team."
"It was an honor to meet Michael and spend a little time with him. He was always gracious and an inspiration to me and our team during my time at Orscheln."
"My condolences to the family. I have worked close with Mike for over 18 years - he was a caring person and employer. He will certainly be missed."
