HUSCO Automotive recognized for technology innovation
By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
For the second consecutive year, the Whitewater branch of a local manufacturing firm was recognized for its positive contributions to the industry.
HUSCO Automotive Holdings, the Whitewater arm of Waukesha-based HUSCO International, was one of 58 companies invited to attend this year’s Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year awards ceremony, which was held last week.
It was a case of déjà vu for management of HUSCO. The company also was named to the list of Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year nominees in 2011.
Unlike last year, however, HUSCO Automotive received an award in this year’s program. The company, which has about 100 employees in Whitewater, received special recognition as a technology innovation and impact award winner.
HUSCO Automotive was one of eight companies to take home an award during this year’s ceremony.
The company designs and manufactures electro-hydraulic controls used in automotive applications.
HUSCO Automotive’s product strategy is based on developing innovative new technologies such as cam phasing, cylinder deactivation, advanced transmissions and start-stop systems to improve the fuel efficiency of internal combustion engines.
Jason Schuetz, vice president of global operations with HUSCO, said he has attributed the company’s success to a clear mission statement, a hard-working group of employees and a spirit of innovation throughout the company.
“I think that we’ve established ourselves in the industry,” Schuetz said.
This has been the 25th year for the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year awards program. A number of companies have spearheaded the initiative over the years.
Accounting and advisory firms Baker Tilly and Michael Best & Friedrich LLP have sponsored the program in recent years alongside the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce organization.
In a statement, Tom Christen, CEO of Baker Tilly, said the awards program is an opportunity to put the spotlight on innovative companies that are investing in the state’s economy.
“The determination of the winning companies to remain forward-thinking, stay ahead of the competition in research and development and deliver cutting-edge technology is something all Wisconsin businesses strive to achieve,” Christen said.
Tod Linstroth, senior partner with Michael Best & Friedrich, said this year’s list of nominees was strong.
“Selecting winners from 58 well-qualified and deserving candidates proved to be an immensely difficult task for this year’s judges,” Linstroth said in the statement. “I would like to commend each and every one of the nominated companies for employing countless Wisconsin citizens and operating at such a level where they have qualified for such a prestigious award.”
Other local companies recognized at this year’s awards program include Weldall Manufacturing, based in Waukesha, for a grand award as a medium-sized company, and Power Test, based in Sussex, for a grand award as a small-sized company.
HUSCO Automotive Holdings has been recognized for its operations in the past.
In October 2010, the division received a $606,000 forgivable loan from the state through federal Community Development Block Grant funds. The grant went toward growth efforts within the company.
Also, in October 2011, the Ford Motor Company awarded HUSCO Automotive with its Q1 certification – a distinction generally handed to companies that have demonstrated high environmental protection policies, as well as teamwork and management.
With HUSCO’s Waukesha facility in the mix, the company as a whole employs about 330 people in Wisconsin.
