Manufacturing
2014 Washington Manufacturing Awards
By Bill Virgin April 23, 2014
Washingtons manufacturing sector makes products that people see, use and consume every day. It also makes a lot that they dont.
Each type of manufacturer is vital to Washingtons economy, which is why the 2014 Washington Manufacturing Awards recognize both types. Award winners this year include household names and those that arent likely to be known outside their specialty niches. They include companies making products readily seen on the nearest grocery shelf and items as inaccessible as the inside of a wind turbine.
A hallmark of Washington manufacturing is the wealth of businesses that make it possible for other firms, particularly manufacturers, to do their work faster and more efficiently, producing better quality with less waste. Whether its the machinery required for a high-volume food-processing line or the packaging needed to get products to stores in one piece, much of the noteworthy work done by Washington manufacturers happens behind the scenes.
Of course, Washington is pretty good at the products that are front and center, too, and we have several of those companies in the list of honorees as well. Here are their stories and accomplishments.
FINALISTS
Manufacturing Executive of the Year
Large Firms: Steve Bell, President & CEO, Bellmont Cabinet Co.
Small Firms: Tom Fleck, President & CEO, GlobalTech Plastics
Emerging Manufacturer of the Year
Food Processor of the Year
Building Trades
Large Firms: Cadet Manufacturing
Silver Award: Technical Glass Products
Manufacturer of the Year
Silver Award: Emerald Recycling
Silver Award: Liberty Bottleworks
Nonprofit Manufacturer of the Year
2014 Washington Manufacturing Awards judging panel
Mark Fitzpatrick, Partner | Moss Adams
Loren Lyon, President | Lyon Enterprises
Tom McLaughlin, Executive Director | Center for Advanced Manufacturing Puget Sound
Ron Rauch, Shareholder | Clark Nuber
John Vicklund, President | Impact Washington
Bill Virgin, Editor and Publisher | Washington Manufacturing Alert
Gary White, President of Business Retention and Expansion | Tri-City Development Council
Dave Zepponi, President | Northwest Food Processors Association