A nearly completed machine sits on the floor of the Roadtec factory in 2010.A 36-year-old Chattanooga company that has helped asphalt to become the most recycled product in the world was recognized as the Company of the Year by the Tennessee Association of Manufacturers.
Roadtec Inc., a division of the Chattanooga-based Astec Industries, was honored during an awards luncheon Wednesday for its innovative products, employee safety, environmental record and community involvement.
"Asphalt is the most recycled product in the world today, and we make the best recycler," said John Irvine, the president of Roadtec who has helped triple the company's sales in the past 12 years as head of the asphalt equipment maker.
Last year, Roadtec generated more than $200 million in sales for Astec, which had total sales of more than $1.1 billion.
During its annual awards luncheon, the Tennessee Association of Manufacturers also honored:
- Lectrus in Chattanooga as the top energy manufacturer.
- Miller Industries as the environment award winner ' EPB as the top safety company.
The statewide trade group, which includes more than 200 corporate members across Tennessee, also announced the creation of a new annual honor known as the Inspires Award named after the late Tim Spires, the president and founder of the Tennessee Association of Manufacturers (previously the Chattanooga Manufacturers Association) who died unexpectedly in February. TAM directors are searching for a new association president to fill the vacancy created by Spires' death.