ACIPCO Named Manufacturer of the Year

Specification Rubber Wins Innovation/Technology Award

ACIPCO was named Manufacturer of the Year by the Birmingham Business Journal at its inaugural Manufacturing Awards on Thursday, August 15. The company competed with manufacturers from across the state for awards in categories including innovation/technology, sustainability, workforce development, community involvement and operational excellence.

 “Manufacturing is the backbone of Alabama’s economy,” said Jon Barganier, President & CEO of Manufacture Alabama and award presenter. “It’s crucial to our local communities and puts Alabama on the international stage.”

 “This award is a testament to the good work of ACIPCO employees,” said ACIPCO President & CEO Mike O’Brien. “To be recognized top among the state’s leading producers of goods is a significant accomplishment and demonstrates the important and substantial role we play in the industry.”

 The journal cited ACIPCO’s investments in its employees, facilities and communities as illustrations of the company’s leadership in the industry – specifically, the new Employee Center to improve employees’ experience on campus and the Next Gen Melt Project to replace the cupola with four induction furnaces, which will increase capacity, add jobs and further reduce emissions.

 Specification Rubber Products received top honors in the category of Innovation/Technology. The journal cited process improvements in the design and production of the company’s restrained joint gaskets for the water industry. It also noted the company’s planned expansion.

 “Few business sectors can top the production and employment numbers of Alabama’s manufacturing industry,” reported the journal. “These awards spotlight those manufacturers doing big things in the community.”