MONTGOMERY, Ala.— The Business Council of Alabama (BCA), Alabama Training Network (ATN), and Manufacture Alabama are proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Alabama Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY) Awards.
Now in its 27th year, the Manufacturer of the Year Awards recognize Alabama manufacturers for excellence in leadership, performance, innovation, and workforce development. Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges based on criteria including customer focus, employee commitment, operational excellence, continuous improvement, profitable growth, and investment in training and development.
Awards are presented in four categories: small, representing manufacturers with 99 or fewer employees; medium, with 100 to 399 employees; large, with 400 or more employees; and emerging, recognizing a company that has been in operation for 10 or fewer years and has demonstrated superior performance.
For nearly three decades, the Manufacturer of the Year Awards have celebrated the companies, employees and industry leaders who help drive Alabama’s manufacturing economy. The 27th annual awards luncheon was held Thursday, October 1, in Montgomery, marking the start of National Manufacturing Month and bringing together manufacturers and business leaders from across Alabama.
The recipients of the 2026 Alabama Manufacturer of the Year Awards are as follows:
Small Manufacturer of the Year: JIT Industries
Founded in 2001 in Hartselle, JIT Industries has grown into a full-service fluid power company serving heavy industry customers across the United States and around the world. The company now operates seven locations across the Southeast and provides a range of products and services designed to meet the needs of its industrial customers. Its growth has been supported by a customer-first approach and continued investment in employees, equipment, and capabilities. JIT Industries represents the strength and potential of Alabama-grown manufacturers committed to service, quality and continuous improvement.
Medium Manufacturer of the Year: Evonik Corporation
Evonik Corporation has a significant manufacturing and research presence in Alabama through its Mobile-area manufacturing campus and Birmingham laboratory. Its Alabama operations support the development and production of advanced materials and technologies used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and health care. This work includes complex drug delivery systems, bioabsorbable polymers, lipid nanoparticles used in mRNA technology, and long-acting injectable medicines. Through continued investment in advanced manufacturing, research and workforce development, Evonik is helping position Alabama at the forefront of innovative technologies with a global reach.
Large Manufacturer of the Year: AMERICAN Cast Iron Pipe Company
Founded in Birmingham in 1905, AMERICAN Cast Iron Pipe Company has grown into a leading manufacturer serving waterworks, energy, and industrial markets. The company manufactures products including fire hydrants, valves, ductile iron and spiral-welded steel pipe, as well as high-frequency-welded steel pipe used in energy and carbon capture applications. More than a century after its founding, AMERICAN continues to invest in its workforce, products, and manufacturing capabilities while maintaining deep roots in Alabama. Its longstanding commitment to quality, innovation, and “The Right Way” continues to define its approach to American manufacturing.
Emerging Manufacturer of the Year: Kaishan Compressor USA
Based in Loxley, Kaishan Compressor USA manufactures rotary screw air compressors serving a wide range of industries and applications. The company operates from a 130,000-square-foot facility designed around lean manufacturing principles and produces compressors ranging from 5 to 600 horsepower. Its build-to-order manufacturing model supports a strong focus on quality, efficiency, and competitive lead times. Kaishan’s investment in Alabama, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and emphasis on energy efficiency reflect the growth and innovation recognized by the Emerging Manufacturer of the Year Award.
2026 Alabama Manufacturer of the Year Award Finalists
Large Manufacturer of the Year Finalists:
Dorsey Trailer LLC, Southwire, Topre America Corporation, and The Westervelt Company
Medium Manufacturer of the Year Finalists:
Cast Products, Inc., Hexcel Corporation, Jasper Lumber Company LLC, and Webb Wheel Products, Inc.
Small Manufacturer of the Year Finalists:
Armand Products Company, IMS, Inc., and Perfection Chain Products
Congratulations to all of the 2026 Manufacturer of the Year winners and finalists for their outstanding achievements and continued contributions to Alabama’s manufacturing industry.
The Business Council of Alabama is the premier voice for Alabama business. BCA is a non-partisan, statewide business association representing the interests and concerns of nearly 1 million working Alabamians through its member companies and its partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama. BCA is Alabama’s exclusive affiliate to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers.