American Orthodontics Corp. recognized with Grand Award
Eight Wisconsin companies received 2009 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards for outstanding achievements in manufacturing. On Feb. 25, the winning companies were announced at a black-tie awards dinner and program at The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee.
American Orthodontics Corp. of Sheboygan was recognized as the 2009 Manufacturer of the Year Grand Award Winner in the large company category.
The Manufacturer of the Year Awards recognize Wisconsin companies that demonstrate a commitment to business excellence which has a positive impact on the company and the state, making Wisconsin a better place to live, work and play.
“It was fascinating reading the many stories of how people in many different businesses started and grew their companies. It was also inspiring as to how they all handled the most recent economic down turn,” said Chuck Yanke, president of Vulcan Lead Products Co. in Milwaukee, and one of 15 judges who selected the eight winners for this year’s event.
“Wisconsin should be very proud of the hardworking, innovative companies that call this state home. The competition for these awards was tough; I think that is a testimony to the hard work put into the competition by each company.”
American Orthodontics Corp. is headquartered in Sheboygan and now has more than 400 employees and sells more in one day than they did the first year in business, 42 years ago. From their start, American Orthodontics sought to be the industry leader in product quality and customer service as well as a community leader, offering safe and rewarding employment. Today their products are recognized around the world for their innovative designs and precise tolerances, and the company benefits from an employee turnover rate that is less than 1 percent.
American Orthodontics is the largest private orthodontic manufacturer in the world. Even during the recession they have weathered the storm well. More than 95 percent of products sold to orthodontists around the world are now manufactured in Sheboygan through extensive use of automation using robotics and vision systems, combined with their skilled work force.
Forty Wisconsin businesses were nominated for the 22nd annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards. An independent panel of judges, with representatives from business, education, government and the media, selected the 2009 Manufacturer of the Year Award winners. More information about the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards program can be found at www.wimoty.com.
The statewide recognition program is co-sponsored by Baker Tilly, one of America’s largest accounting and advisory firms; Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, a preeminent Midwest-based law firm; and Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the state’s largest business association.
