Alabama's top manufacturers honored by BCA at annual award show

The Business Council of Alabama (BCA) and the Alabama Technology Network (ATN) recognized the state’s top manufacturers at the 2024 ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ awards ceremony held last week in Montgomery.

Now in its 25th year, the annual award celebrates excellence in Alabama’s manufacturing sector across four categories based on company size: Small, medium, large, and emerging. The winners were chosen by an independent panel of judges based on leadership, performance, profitability, and workforce relations.

The common denominator of all awardees is their commitment to manufacturing excellence and the Yellowhammer State.

“Manufacturing is crucial to shaping Alabama’s economic landscape and future. It’s more than just producing Made-In-Alabama products; it’s about creating jobs, fostering innovation, and being one of the top economic drivers in our state,” said BCA President and CEO Helena Duncan.

“The Manufacturer of the Year awards honor the exceptional spirit of our state’s manufacturers and their positive impact on their communities. We are thrilled to recognize such a distinguished group of businesses.”

The awards coincide with National Manufacturing Month, for which Governor Kay Ivey also declared October 4 as ‘Manufacturing Day’ in Alabama.

“Alabama’s manufacturing sector continues to lead with cutting-edge solutions and sustainable practices. With a highly skilled workforce and a commitment to excellence, Alabama manufacturers not only support local communities but also play a critical role in shaping the future of our industry,” said Keith Phillips, Executive Director of ATN.

“Their resilience, adaptability, and pursuit of growth ensure a prosperous future for the state’s economy. ATN is proud to partner with BCA in supporting and honoring these exceptional manufacturers at the 25th annual Manufacturer of the Year Awards.”

The winners of this year’s awards were:

Small Manufacturer of the Year: Specification Rubber Products, Inc. (Alabaster, AL)

Specification Rubber Products, Inc. is a trusted manufacturer specializing in high-quality rubber components and solutions for a variety of industrial applications. With a focus on precision and durability, Specification Rubber Products provides custom-engineered rubber parts, seals, gaskets, and vibration isolators designed to meet the specific needs of its diverse clientele. Leveraging advanced technology and a commitment to excellence, the company ensures reliable performance and longevity in its products, serving industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing with innovative and dependable rubber solutions.

Medium Manufacturer of the Year: Ox Bodies, Inc. (Fayette, AL)

Ox Bodies, Inc. is a leading manufacturer specializing in heavy-duty truck bodies and equipment. Renowned for their durability and innovation, Ox Bodies offers a wide range of products including dump bodies, flatbeds, and specialty truck equipment designed to meet the demanding needs of industries such as construction, agriculture, and transportation. Committed to quality and craftsmanship, Ox Bodies leverages advanced technology and materials to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions that enhance the efficiency and productivity of their clients’ operations.

Large Manufacturer of the Year: Human Dynamics Hyundai Power Transformers USA (Montgomery, AL)

Human Dynamics Hyundai Power Transformers USA is a prominent manufacturer of high-quality power transformers and related equipment, serving the North American electrical infrastructure market. As a subsidiary of Hyundai Electric & Energy Systems Co., Ltd., Human Dynamics combines global expertise with local insights to deliver reliable and efficient transformer solutions. The company is dedicated to innovation, safety, and sustainability, offering a range of products designed to meet the evolving needs of the energy sector and support the development of robust and resilient power grids.

Emerging: Asahi Kasei Plastics North America (Athens, AL)

Asahi Kasei Plastics North America is a leading provider of advanced plastic solutions, specializing in high-performance materials that enhance a wide range of industries. A subsidiary of Asahi Kasei Corporation, a global innovator headquartered in Japan, the North American division focuses on delivering cutting-edge plastics and composites for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, Asahi Kasei Plastics North America leverages state-of-the-art technology and research to support its customers in achieving their performance and environmental goals.

The 2024 Alabama Manufacturer of the Year Award finalists were:

Adient Clanton, Inc
Asahi Kasei Plastics North America
Coca-Cola
Foster Farms
Human Dynamics Hyundai Power Transformers USA
MRAine Industries LLC
Mayco Industries
NRTC Automation (NRTC Alabama Inc.)
Ox Bodies, Inc.
POSCO AAPC LLC
Phifer Incorporated
Rusty’s Off Road Products
Specification Rubber Products, Inc.
TASUS

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270