Elkmont-based EFI Automotive named Alabama Medium Manufacturer of the Year

MONTGOMERY – An Elkmont company drove away with a top award in this year’s Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY) awards.

EFI Automotive was named Medium Manufacturer of the Year at the annual event hosted by the Business Council of Alabama, Alabama Technology Network, and Manufacture Alabama.

Held on National Manufacturing Day, these prestigious awards recognize Alabama’s manufacturers for their excellence in leadership, performance, profitability, and workforce relations.

Winners were 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.

“Alabama’s economy is largely built on the strength of its manufacturers. Their work is not only about producing goods — it’s about creating careers, sparking new ideas, and driving growth in every corner of our state,” said Helena Duncan, president and CEO of BCA. “The Manufacturer of the Year Awards highlight the leadership, dedication, and community impact that make our manufacturing sector so vital.

“We are proud to celebrate this year’s winners for the role they play in shaping Alabama’s success story.”

The Alabama Manufacturer of the Year awards are presented in four categories: small (99 or fewer employees), medium (100-399 employees), large (400 or more employees), and emerging (one company per year that has been in operation for ten or fewer years and has demonstrated superior performance). This categorization ensures recognition of outstanding achievements across all segments of Alabama’s diverse manufacturing industry.

In Elkmont, EFI Automotive USA and its 250 employees operate as the North American headquarters of EFI Automotive.

Since 2004, the company has designed and manufactured advanced sensors, actuators, and activators that increase powertrain efficiency, support e-mobility, and improve driving performance.

With more than 80 years of global expertise, EFI combines local service with worldwide innovation, providing sustainable solutions that keep the automotive industry moving forward.

“From ingenuity to sustainability, Alabama manufacturers continue to raise the bar for excellence,” said ATN Executive Director Keith Phillips. “Their adaptability and determination ensure that manufacturing will remain a cornerstone of Alabama’s economy for years to come. It’s an honor to join BCA and Manufacture Alabama in recognizing these outstanding companies.”

Celebrating over 25 years, the Manufacturer of the Year awards have become a hallmark event, attended by Alabama dignitaries and distinguished leaders from the manufacturing sector.

The ceremony was Tuesday in Montgomery, with Greg Reed, secretary of the Department of Workforce for the state of Alabama, joining as the event’s keynote speaker to honor the state’s industry leaders.

“Manufacturers are at the foundation of Alabama’s economy — creating jobs, driving innovation, and investing in communities across our state,” said Jon Barganier, president and CEO of Manufacture Alabama. “We are proud to join together to recognize their achievements through the Manufacturer of the Year Awards, standing alongside them in advocating for policies that ensure their continued growth and competitiveness.”

This year’s awards coincide with National Manufacturing Month, highlighting the significant contributions of manufacturers to Alabama, the United States, and the global economy.