Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield on Tuesday was the recipient of Manufacture Alabama’s “Friend of the Industry” award at the association’s annual Legislative Reception and Dinner in Montgomery.
Manufacture Alabama is the state’s only trade association solely focused on representing the interests of the industry. Its membership includes companies ranging from family-owned businesses to international corporations that conduct business in Alabama.
According to a release, the award recognizes public officials, community leaders and industry representatives for their contributions to the manufacturing industry.
Alabama Manufacture president George Clark showered praise upon Canfield for his work as the state’s commerce chief that he indicated has served to benefit manufacturers.
“Secretary Canfield’s commitment to the manufacturing industry in Alabama and his leadership which results in quality, good-paying jobs embodies what this award is all about,” proclaimed Clark. “His achievements have contributed to a countless number of Alabamians, setting the standard for future growth and economic opportunities across the state.”
Canfield was appointed Alabama’s Department of Commerce secretary in July 2011. Since he assumed the position, the state has attracted economic development projects totaling over $50 billion in new private sector capital investment projects resulting in the creation of more than 160,000 jobs, many of which were in the manufacturing industry.
According to Manufacture Alabama, the partnerships Canfield has formed across the industry has led to significant growth in the aerospace, automotive, chemical, iron and steel, advance materials, and pulp and paper sectors.
In accepting the award, Canfield outlined his department’s mission to further strengthen Alabama’s manufacturing industry.
“I am very honored to receive the Friend of the Industry award from Manufacture Alabama because I see every day the important role that manufacturing plays in the economic vitality of communities and families across the state. I’m constantly impressed by the talents of our manufacturing workforce, whose accomplishments mean “Made in Alabama” is a badge of quality recognized around the world, and I’m fully committed to extending the sector’s momentum.”
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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