Madison Reporter

Nine companies have been recognized as Wisconsin Manufacturers of the Year at the 36th Annual MOTY Awards. The announcement was made on February 20 during a banquet that celebrated all 21 finalists.

The awards, sponsored by Baker Tilly, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), aim to highlight the state's largest industry, which employs 18.4% of Wisconsin’s workforce. Winners are selected based on their dedication to quality careers, business practices, financial growth, innovation, and community reinvestment.

“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."

The selection process evaluates companies on financial growth, technological advances, product development, environmental solutions and sustainability, operational excellence and continuous improvement among other criteria.

“Our state is home to innovative and dynamic manufacturers and Baker Tilly is proud to celebrate the industry," stated Greg Sofra from Baker Tilly. "This program recognizes not only the continued success manufacturers find in Wisconsin but also their contributions back to communities."

Manufacturing contributes nearly $72 billion annually to Wisconsin's economy with about 9,000 manufacturers operating in the state.

“The innovative spirit and dedication exhibited by this year’s Manufacturer of the Year award winners are a true testament to the resilience," said David Krutz from Michael Best & Friedrich LLP.

Four Grand Awards were presented across different size categories: JR Machine (Small), Plas-Tech Engineering (Medium), Weinbrenner Shoe Company (Large), and Plexus Corp. (Mega). Five special awards were also given for unique qualities demonstrated by certain companies.

More information about the program can be found at www.wimoty.com.