KLH Receives Second Straight WI MOTY Nomination

For the second consecutive year, KLH Industries has been nominated to be Wisconsin's Small Business Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY).

Entering its 23rd year, the Manufacturer of the Year Awards program is co-sponsored by Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP; Michael Best and Friedrich LLP; and the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce.

According to their website, the Manufacturer of the Year award program "celebrates the successes of manufacturers in the state: their innovations, philanthropy, technological advances, commitment to customer satisfaction, and quality jobs."

An independent panel of judges selects the award winners, which will be announced on Thursday, Feb. 24. Companies are evaluated across multiple areas:

Financial Growth/Consistency

As small business, KLH remained fully operational and even profitable in 2009. Targeted growth opportunities, such as AS9100 (aerospace) certification, have already begun to pay dividends. To better serve this industry, KLH purchased new machines that created new job positions.

Operational Excellence

The pursuit of excellence at KLH is driven by one key principle: continuous improvement. Not simply improving the sales or number of customers, but improving all aspects of business – communication, processes, education, and management.

Utilizing custom-made information systems, KLH increased on-time delivery percentages by over 25% in the past five years.

Employee Involvement

Continuous improvement is only possible with a workforce that embraces change. It’s not a company secret; KLH’s most valuable resource is the employees. New employees in 2010 are currently in lean training, learning how to "work smarter."

Incorporates "Going Green" into strategic planning

KLH reduced water consumption by the waterjet cutting services at least 95%. By adding a closed loop system, KLH reduces water bills while increasing the life of expensive consumables. KLH learned it pays green to be green.

KLH is deeply honored by the nomination, as it is a reflection of commitment, excellence, and improvement. For more information about the program, nominees, or award ceremony, visit the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year website.