Fifty-three Nominees Announced for 2010 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards
2011 looks promising for industry
 
January 2011, Madison - 2011 already looks like it will be a good year for the manufacturing industry in Wisconsin. Fifty-three Wisconsin companies have been nominated for the 2010 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY) awards, compared to 40 last year.

"This increased number of nominees is encouraging as it shows manufacturers feel positive about business this past year," said Jim Haney, president of Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, one of the program sponsors. "Our state's manufacturing sector is poised to have an even greater 2011 as we continue to pull through the recovering economy. Wisconsin is home to some of the greatest manufacturers in our nation, that hasn't changed."

Celebrating its 23rd year, the MOTY program recognizes manufacturers of all sizes and industries for their contributions to the great state of Wisconsin. Manufacturers contribute to the vibrancy of Wisconsin and our communities through good business practices, innovative processes, and productivity enhancements. This program helps celebrate and honor the companies that have made Wisconsin the industrial powerhouse it is today.

"Wisconsin's manufacturing workforce is resilient and many companies have overcome great adversities. Michael Best looks forward to honoring these manufacturers for their continued commitment to our state," said Tod Linstroth, senior partner and a member of the Management Committee of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, one of the MOTY sponsors.

The nominated companies were placed into four size categories determined by company-wide employee count. The extensive nomination process requires the companies to include detailed operational and financial information. Of the 53 nominees, 15 companies also applied for the Sustainability Grand Award, showcasing their success in environmental best practices.

"Wisconsin manufacturers are innovators. They are focused on bringing advanced technologies to market that will help maintain a competitive edge in the industry. I'm sure this year's nominees will be a strong representation of the ground-breaking ideas that continue to support profitable growth and expanded job opportunities throughout our state," said Tim Christen, CEO of Baker Tilly, a founding sponsor of MOTY.

The accounting and advisory firm of Baker Tilly, the law firm of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, and the business association Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce sponsor the MOTY awards program. The winners, selected by an independent panel of judges, will be announced at a black-tie banquet on February 24, 2011 at The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee. Additional information and can be found online at www.wimoty.com or by calling (800) 362-7301.