Culture and community are two words that come up frequently among our 2022 Manufacturing Excellence Award winners.
The companies we spotlight this year are industry innovators—not only for their implementation of cutting-edge technology like robotics and other systems, but also for their thoughtful approaches to staff development and retention, equity, and community. A perfect example: Renewal by Andersen. Recognizing that more than 20 languages are spoken on its production floor, the company recently started offering English classes and more integrated leadership training for employees. Meanwhile, Tennant’s well-timed move into autonomous industrial cleaners filled a market need for more thorough cleaning practices while addressing the labor shortage and demand for higher-level technical jobs. For a startup manufacturer like Minnesota Ice, the pandemic compelled a total rethinking of products and service offerings, which has ultimately made the small company more nimble and revealed even more business potential. It’s a dynamic time to be in manufacturing. From a machine shop for industrial parts to cold storage for pharmaceuticals, the companies profiled here demonstrate why Minnesota continues to be an industry leader.

Here’s a glimpse at how they work, and read their stories below.