We are excited to share that Spec Rubber has been named the 2024 Alabama Manufacturer of the Year in the Small Business category presented by the Business Council of Alabama (BCA) and the Alabama Technology Network (ATN). This recognition is a true testament to our team’s hard work and dedication, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together.
It’s truly rewarding to be recognized for our positive contributions at Spec Rubber. We are excited about our future and confident that we will keep excelling and staying at the top of the industry together.
Official Manufacturer of the Year Awards Press Release:
The Business Council of Alabama and Alabama Technology Network Announce 2024 Manufacturer of the Year Award Winners
MONTGOMERY, AL– The Business Council of Alabama (BCA) and the Alabama Technology Network (ATN) are proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY) awards.
These prestigious awards recognize Alabama’s manufacturers for their excellence in leadership, performance, profitability, and workforce relations. Winners were selected by an independent panel of judges based on criteria including customer focus, employee commitment, operational excellence, continuous improvement, profitable growth, and investment in training and development.
The Alabama Manufacturer of the Year awards are presented in three categories based on company size: small (99 or fewer employees), medium (100-399 employees), large (400 or more employees), and emerging (one company per year that has been in operation for ten or fewer years and has demonstrated superior performance). This categorization ensures recognition of outstanding achievements across all segments of Alabama’s diverse manufacturing industry.
“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.”
“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. 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,” said Keith Phillips, Executive Director of ATN.
Celebrating over 20 years, the Manufacturer of the Year awards have become a hallmark event, attended by Alabama dignitaries and distinguished leaders from the manufacturing sector. The 25th annual awards ceremony took place today in Montgomery, with Tom Scroggins, Partner at Burr & Forman, joining as the event’s keynote speaker to honor the state’s industry leaders.
This year’s awards coincide with National Manufacturing Month, highlighting the significant contributions of manufacturers to Alabama, the United States, and the global economy. Governor Kay Ivey has declared October 4th as Manufacturing Day in Alabama to further acknowledge this vital sector.
The winners of this year’s awards are as follows:
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 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 in alphabetical order are below:
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
The Business Council of Alabama is Alabama’s foremost voice for business. The BCA is a non-partisan, statewide business association representing the interests and concerns of nearly 1 million working Alabamians through its member companies and its partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama. The BCA is Alabama’s exclusive affiliate to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers.