MADISON – Eight companies were named as Wisconsin Manufacturers of the Year at the 37th Annual MOTY Awards program, the state’s premier recognition of manufacturing excellence.
Baker Tilly, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), the hosts of the program, announced the recipients Thursday evening at a black-tie banquet honoring the manufacturers who exemplify excellence in the state’s top industry and propel it forward.
This year’s winners were selected from a field of more than 40 finalists representing the strength, innovation, and statewide impact of Wisconsin’s manufacturing sector. Finalists were announced earlier this year following a rigorous evaluation of business performance, technological advancement, workforce commitment, community investment, and industry leadership.
“The finalists and winners of the MOTY Awards reflect the extraordinary dedication and innovation that define Wisconsin manufacturing,” said Kurt R. Bauer, President/CEO of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce. “These companies not only produce world‑class products but also create high‑quality jobs and strengthen local communities across the state.”
The state’s manufacturing industry employs 1 in 6 Wisconsin workers and generates over $73 billion in annual output, driving regional economies across the state and making Wisconsin a powerhouse of productivity.
“Manufacturing has been and always will be a cornerstone of Wisconsin’s economy. The constant pursuit of innovation, the dedication to workforce development, and the investment back into our communities will ensure the success of our great state for generations to come,” said Chad O’Brien, Baker Tilly’s Wisconsin manufacturing leader. “Baker Tilly is proud to partner with WMC and Michael Best to shine a light on manufacturing and its importance to the success of our communities. On behalf of Baker Tilly, congratulations, and a sincere thank you, to all of the nominees and winners of this year’s MOTY awards and all of those that support them.“
“Wisconsin’s manufacturers stand out nationally for their hard work, commitment to quality, and entrepreneurial spirit,” said David Krutz, Managing Partner at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP. “Michael Best is proud to stand with them and honored to once again recognize the manufacturers who drive economic growth and strengthen their communities.”
In addition to four Grand Award recipients, this year, the program organizers launched four new Spotlight Awards to recognize specialized excellence in a specific benchmark.
37th Annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Grand Award Recipients:
Mega: Brakebush Brothers Inc. – Westfield
Large: Robinson, Inc. – De Pere
Medium: E.K. Machine Co., Inc. – Fall River
Small: Reader Precision Solutions, Inc. – Elkhorn
Spotlight Award Winners:
Business Resilience & Growth: Custom Fabricating & Repair, Inc. – Marshfield
Community Impact & Investment: Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC – Arcadia
Excellence in Product & Process Innovation: Spark Ops Metalworks LLC – Fond du Lac
Commitment to Workforce: Kapco Inc. – Grafton
For 37 years, the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards have honored companies that exemplify business excellence and contribute significantly to Wisconsin’s economic success. The awards are sponsored by Baker Tilly, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce. Learn more at www.wimoty.com.
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