MADISON – Eight companies were named as Wisconsin Manufacturers of the Year at the 36th Annual MOTY Awards program. The winners were announced Thursday, February 20, at a black-tie banquet honoring all 21 finalists.
Baker Tilly, Michael Best & Fredrich LLP, and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) sponsor the program each year to highlight the state’s largest industry, which employs 18.4% of Wisconsin’s workforce, the largest ratio in the country. MOTY Awards are earned by the state’s top manufacturers who demonstrate a dedication to quality careers, good business practices, financial growth, innovative processes and reinvestment into local communities.
“Wisconsinites make things, and they make them well,” said WMC President & CEO Kurt R. Bauer. “Our state relies on hard-working manufacturers to provide economic stability, careers, innovation, and much more. We’re proud to honor this year’s winners of the Manufacturer of the Year Awards. Each of these companies exemplifies excellence on every level. Congratulations to all of the nominees!”
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.
“Our state is home to innovative and dynamic manufacturers and Baker Tilly is proud to celebrate the industry and honor the winners at the Manufacturer of the Year banquet,” said Greg Sofra, Baker Tilly’s Wisconsin manufacturing leader. “This program recognizes not only the continued success manufacturers find in Wisconsin, but also the contributions they give back to their communities. Congratulations to the winners and all the nominees. On behalf of Baker Tilly, we look forward to your continued growth and accomplishments in the year to come.”
The manufacturing industry produces nearly $72 billion in economic output each year in Wisconsin. The state is home to nearly 9,000 manufacturers.
“The innovative spirit and dedication exhibited by this year’s Manufacturer of the Year award winners are a true testament to the resilience and vitality of Wisconsin’s robust manufacturing sector,” said David Krutz, Managing Partner at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP. “At Michael Best, we are honored to once again join in the recognition of the outstanding achievements of manufacturers and support an industry that continues to drive economic growth and create quality jobs in our communities.”
Four Grand Awards were distributed in four size categories for impeccable performance. These winners wholly showcase the strength and vibrancy of manufacturing. Additionally, four special awards were given to companies who demonstrated a unique quality worthy of recognition.
36th Annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Award Winners:
Grand Awards:
Small Category: JR Machine – Shawano
Medium Category: Plas-Tech Engineering – Lake Geneva
Large Category: Weinbrenner Shoe Company – Merrill
Mega Category: Plexus Corp. – Neenah
Special Awards:
Future of Flavor: Omnia Wood Products LLC (Smokey Woods) – Crivitz
Top of the Line Workplace: Redline Plastics, LLC – Manitowoc
Global Impact: ANGI Energy Systems LLC – Janesville
Empowerment Through Inclusion: VARC, Inc – Viroqua
Learn more about the program and sponsors at www.wimoty.com.
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