Recognizing that the manufacturing sector has weathered some harsh economic conditions in recent years, The Hitachi Foundation (Washington, DC) developed its Pioneer Employer Initiative, which identifies manufacturing companies that benefit their customers, patients, and/or shareholders by strategically investing in their own lower-wage workers. One company that was identified is Optimax Systems (Ontario, NY), which was launched in the basement of a barn and has grown to be America's largest prototype optics manufacturer.
Companies that The Hitachi Foundation selects are said to go beyond typical ideas about "great places to work" and demonstrate how firms can actually align the interests of employees and management to create better results for entire communities, while also improving business results. As such, Optimax achieves operational excellence by investing in cutting-edge technology, advancing its people, and sharing 25% of monthly profits with employees. Much of its success is due to its dynamic, team-based culture, enlightened management practices, lean operation, and innovative approaches to recruiting and retaining its production workforce. The company has a steady stream of defense, semiconductor, medical, and aerospace clients.
For more information, please visit www.hitachifoundation.org.