Contact:
Loree Blue
Director of Marketing and Communications
NC State University Industry Extension Services
The North Carolina Manufacturing Partnership
lblue@ncsu.edu | 336.416.6595
NC State University Industry Extension Services Announces 2026 State Manufacturing Leadership Award Winners
RALEIGH, N.C. (April 2026) — NC State University Industry Extension Services proudly announces the winners of the 2026 State Manufacturing Leadership Awards, recognizing North Carolina manufacturers that demonstrate excellence across innovation, workforce development, sustainability, community impact and operational performance. The awards were presented at the North Carolina Manufacturing Conference (MFGCON), celebrating companies that are shaping the future of manufacturing across the state.
Award of Excellence: Moog Inc. – Murphy Facility
The program’s highest honor, the Award of Excellence, was presented to Moog Inc.’s Murphy facility for its outstanding performance across all award categories. With more than 60 years of manufacturing heritage in western North Carolina, the facility has become a global hub for high-reliability electromechanical systems serving aerospace, defense, medical and data center industries. Driven by rapid growth in AI and data infrastructure, the site has significantly scaled production of liquid cooling pumps while maintaining a strong culture of continuous improvement, workforce investment and community engagement. Its commitment to innovation, operational excellence and employee well-being sets a benchmark for modern manufacturing.
Sustainability Award: Kempower – Durham
Kempower received the Sustainability Award for embedding environmental responsibility into every aspect of its operations. The company designs and manufactures DC fast-charging solutions for electric vehicles, directly supporting global decarbonization efforts. At its Durham facility, Kempower has implemented measurable initiatives including waste reduction programs, energy-efficient upgrades, electrified equipment and circular packaging systems. With a goal of carbon neutrality by 2030, Kempower demonstrates how sustainable practices and industrial growth can go hand in hand.
Continuous Improvement Award: Queen City Engineering & Design – Concord
Queen City Engineering & Design earned recognition for Continuous Improvement through its transformation into a systems-driven organization. By implementing ISO 9001 standards, ERP integration, advanced scheduling automation and supplier management processes, the company has strengthened quality, efficiency and scalability. These improvements have enabled expansion into new markets and Tier One supplier relationships, reinforcing a culture where innovation and process excellence drive long-term growth.
Developing Markets / Economic Development Award: Huvepharma – Maxton
Huvepharma’s Maxton facility was honored for its impact on Economic Development and Market Expansion. The global animal health company has invested $3.3 million to expand its North Carolina operations, doubling its potential vaccine production capacity to support global food systems. Through job creation, partnerships with local government and workforce training collaborations with Richmond Community College, Huvepharma exemplifies how advanced manufacturing can strengthen rural economies while serving global markets.
Workforce Development Award: Poppies Bakeries – Battleboro
Poppies Bakeries was recognized for Workforce Development for its people-first approach to manufacturing excellence. The company has built a culture rooted in Lean principles, continuous improvement and internal career growth. From company-wide training weeks to structured development pathways, employees are empowered to advance into technical and leadership roles. This investment in people has strengthened retention, operational performance and long-term business success.
Community Outreach Award: Seegars Fence Company – Goldsboro
Seegars Fence Company received the Community Outreach Award for its “Helping Hands Project,” an initiative that mobilizes employees to build fences for nonprofits and community members in need. By combining service with teamwork, the company reinforces its mission to “change the world one linear foot at a time,” demonstrating that manufacturing success can be measured not only in output, but in community impact.
Innovation Award: Clayton Homes – Richfield
Clayton Homes‘ Richfield facility earned the Innovation Award for its industry-leading approach to team-driven innovation and digital transformation. Through its Idea Program, nearly 1,500 employee-generated ideas have led to hundreds of implemented improvements across safety, quality and efficiency. Supported by enterprise-wide innovation initiatives and custom-built digital tools, the facility continues to advance modern homebuilding while improving sustainability and customer outcomes.
Celebrating Manufacturing Excellence Across North Carolina
“These award winners represent the very best of North Carolina manufacturing,” said Dr. Phil Mintz, NC State University Industry Extension Services Executive Director. “From global innovation to community impact, each company demonstrates how manufacturers drive economic growth, support their workforce and strengthen communities across our state.”
Together, the 2026 award recipients highlight the diversity, resilience and innovation that define North Carolina’s manufacturing sector—positioning the state as a national leader in advanced manufacturing.
To read more about each award-winning company and view previous winners, visit:
https://ncmep.org/nc-state-manufacturing-leadership-awards/
About NC State Industry Expansion Solutions
NC State University Industry Extension Services is the official manufacturing extension partner of North Carolina, helping manufacturers grow, innovate and compete through consulting, training and technical assistance.
