Nine Wisconsin companies were named as winners in the 35th Annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY) Awards for outstanding achievements in manufacturing. The winners were announced Thursday, February 22, at a black-tie banquet honoring all 36 finalists.
The prestigious Manufacturer of the Year Awards program recognizes Wisconsin companies that are dedicated to quality careers, good business practices, financial growth, innovative processes and reinvestment into local communities. The industry itself employs over a half million Wisconsinites and contributes more than $70 billion annually to the economy.
“Wisconsin’s best superpower is our manufacturing industry,” said Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) President & CEO Kurt R. Bauer. “We appreciate the opportunity both to highlight manufacturing as a whole and to showcase the best of our state’s workforce. We’re incredibly proud of Wisconsin’s manufacturing heritage and the notoriety this industry has brought to our state, and are confident that it is companies like these that will continue to drive Wisconsin forward.”
Each year, the MOTY Awards program recognizes companies of all sizes for all they do to grow Wisconsin’s economy. Companies were evaluated on many key benchmarks, including financial growth, technological advances, product development, environmental solutions and sustainability, operational excellence and continuous improvement, commitment to employees, and effective research and development. Award winners were selected by an independent panel of judges.
“Over the last 35 years of MOTY we've seen the tremendous growth of Wisconsin's manufacturing industry. It's an honor to celebrate manufacturers with this award program.” said Greg Sofra, Baker Tilly’s Wisconsin Manufacturing Leader. “On behalf of Baker Tilly, congratulations to this year’s winners. We look forward to seeing your continued success and how you will drive innovation in the industry over the next 35 years.”
Four Grand Award winners, based on company size, were recognized for impeccable performance. These winners showcase the strength and vibrancy of the manufacturing industry. Additionally, five special awards were given to companies who demonstrated a unique quality the judges thought to be notable.
“The Manufacturer of the Year Awards program shows the ingenuity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence that define our state’s manufacturing sector,” added Michael Best Firm Managing Partner David Krutz. “Michael Best is proud to support this program that celebrates the achievements of outstanding manufacturers and serves as a catalyst for innovation and growth for Wisconsin’s economy, communities, and our future.”
The Manufacturer of the Year Awards are sponsored by the advisory firm of Baker Tilly, the law firm of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce – the combined state chamber and manufacturers’ association.
Additional information can be found online at wimoty.com.
35th Annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Award Winners:
Grand Awards:
- Small Category: Precision Plus Solutions – Elkhorn
- Medium Category: Muza Sheet Metal Company LLC – Oshkosh
- Large Category: VOLM Companies Inc. – Antigo
- Mega Category: Menasha Corp. – Neenah
Special Awards:
- Going the Extra Mile(s): Lemke Industrial Machine LLC – Marathon
- Community Stewardship: Beyond Vision – West Allis
- Time Tested American Craftsmanship: Weinbrenner Shoe Company – Merrill
- Revolutionary Risk Investment: Husco International – Waukesha
- Global Collaboration & Local Precision: Plexus Corp. - Neenah