Triumph Aerostructures—Vought Aircraft Division, based in Milledgeville, was named Large Manufacturer of the Year at the annual Manufacturer’s Appreciation Week Governor’s Awards Luncheon in Atlanta today. This event, co-hosted by the Technical College System of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Economic Development, recognizes top manufacturers across the state based on economic impact, corporate responsibility, and workforce excellence.

“On behalf of 13,000 Triumph employees across the United States and the world at 67 locations, and especially the 715 employees in Milledgeville, thank you for this honor,” said Merlin Fechner, president of Triumph Aerostructures—Vought Aircraft Division. “We truly consider it an honor and a privilege to accept this prestigious award. We have some of the best employees and it’s demonstrated every day in everything we do. This award truly belongs to them.”

Fechner’s remarks were made in front of a crowd of Georgia manufacturers and state officials gathered at the Georgia International Convention Center in Atlanta for the Governor’s Awards Luncheon, including Governor Nathan Deal, Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Chris Carr, and TCSG Commissioner Gretchen Corbin. Fechner, along with approximately 25 other Triumph employees accepted the award from Governor Deal.

Triumph has been in operation for over 40 years in Milledgeville. During that time, Triumph has added over $5.2 billion to the local economy, averaging a $148.3 million economic impact annually. Even during the most recent economic downturn among soaring unemployment, Triumph was able to add over 375 jobs.

The company serves as a supplier for Boeing and has been recognized as a Sliver Level Supplier for the past two years. Over a four year period, Triumph earned the President’s Award for overall site performance and improvement and is a past Gold Eagle award recipient from Boeing for C17 Outstanding Performance. Triumph employees also benefit from tuition reimbursement programs, Triumph Rewards Bonus Program, and can take part in the Advance Leadership Program, which is provides professional development opportunities for future company leaders. 

Triumph believes in being a good corporate citizen. They demonstrate their commitment by donating time and resources to the local community, including sponsorship of various Chamber and Development Authority events and by volunteering many hours with local non-profit organizations such as United Way, Relay for Life, Special Olympics, the American Red Cross, and the Chard Wray Food Pantry.

Triumph was nominated for this award by Central Georgia Technical College.

“Triumph Aerostructures-Vought Division is most deserving of this prestigious award,” said Becky Lee, vice president for Economic Development at CGTC. “They offer the best of the best in advanced manufacturing—people, processes, and organization. They have been a shining star in the Milledgeville-Baldwin County community and a great corporate citizen and their recent $35 million facility expansion resulted in the creation of 300 new jobs. This is great news for our community!”

Central Georgia Technical College and the Technical College System of Georgia work closely with local manufacturers, providing needed services and training for established manufacturers. In addition, TCSG offers Quick Start services to new and expanding industry across Georgia. Quick Start provides training for the employees, at not cost, to guarantee a productive workforce on the day of operation.

Manufacturers Appreciation Week is annual event in April that recognizes manufacturers across the state for their contribution to workforce development and the local economy. State winners were announced in three categories—large (more than 500 employees), medium (151-500 employees) and small (0-150 employees). The winner for small manufacturer of the year was Prayon, Inc. in Augusta and the medium manufacturer of the year was Mitsubishi-Hitachi Power Systems, Americas in Savannah.