Minnesota Manufacturing Awards 2012

** Click here to view and order photos from the event **

For decades we’ve been bombarded by dire stories about U.S. manufacturers moving production overseas. Amid such reports it’s easy to lose sight of the outstanding manufacturing operations that have nevertheless started in Minnesota, moved back here (after the full costs of offshore became clear), or simply never left in the first place (knowing a good thing when they see it). That’s why in this space we’d like to put some Minnesota manufacturing operations under a well-deserved spotlight. Consider these awards — chosen with the help of our excellent judging panel, which you can learn more about on our website — a simple appreciation. We know that manufacturing is essential to the economic well-being of this great state. By recognizing this select group for their achievements, we salute all Minnesota manufacturers doing the important work of assembling high-quality parts and products destined for use all over the world (and even in outer space). Their efforts reflect well on every one of us who calls Minnesota home, and for that we give our thanks. Keep up the good work, guys. We appreciate it.

Woman Owned Manufacturing Company of the Year:
- [Winner] Jones Metal Products
- Bowman Tool & Machining
- Wyoming Machine, Inc.

Innovator of the Year:
- [Winner] Daikin McQuay
- Delkor Systems
- Vision Woodworking

Emerging Manufacturer of the Year:
- [Winner] RedEye on Demand
- Vaddio

Executive of the Year:
- [Winner] J.W. Hulme, Jennifer Guarino
- Volumetric Technologies, Beth Piper
- Jones Metal Products, Sarah Richards

Small Manufacturer of the Year:
- [Winner] MRG Tool & Die
- Bowman Tool & Machining
- The Outdoor Greatroom Company

Midsize Manufacturer of the Year:
- [Winner] Dayton Rogers Manufacturing Company
- Jones Metal Products
- Lou-Rich

Large Manufacturer of the Year:
- [Winner] GNP Company
- BTD
- Proto Labs
 

More about the event:

Winners were honored at an awards event on October 30th at The Metropolitan Ballroom in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Nominations for next year's awards will be opened in March of 2013.