Madison Reporter

Eight companies in Wisconsin have been recognized as 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 are sponsored by Baker Tilly, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) to honor top manufacturers in the state. These companies are acknowledged for their commitment to quality careers, sound business practices, financial growth, innovation, and community reinvestment.

“Wisconsinites make things, and they make them well,” stated 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!”

The selection process involved an independent panel evaluating companies based on financial growth, technological advances, product development, environmental solutions and sustainability, operational excellence and continuous improvement, employee commitment, and research and development effectiveness.

“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 from Baker Tilly. “This program recognizes not only the continued success manufacturers find in Wisconsin but also the contributions they give back to their communities.”

The manufacturing sector in Wisconsin contributes nearly $72 billion annually with almost 9,000 manufacturers operating within 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 and vitality of Wisconsin’s robust manufacturing sector,” remarked David Krutz from Michael Best & Friedrich LLP.

Four Grand Awards were given across different size categories: JR Machine in Shawano for Small Category; Plas-Tech Engineering in Lake Geneva for Medium Category; Weinbrenner Shoe Company in Merrill for Large Category; Plexus Corp. in Neenah for Mega Category.

Additionally, four special awards were presented: Omnia Wood Products LLC (Smokey Woods) received Future of Flavor; Redline Plastics LLC was awarded Top of the Line Workplace; ANGI Energy Systems LLC earned Global Impact; VARC Inc was recognized for Empowerment Through Inclusion.

Further details about the program can be found at www.wimoty.com.