Fluid Motion of Kent received the Association of Washington Business (AWB) Operational Excellence Award on Friday for its fast-growing line of recreational boats.
The Kent firm, located on the West Hill along Pacific Highway South, was one of five employers honored at the AWB’s annual Manufacturing Summit for their contributions to the state’s economy, according to an association media release.
Fluid Motion, which makes Ranger Tugs and Cutwater Boats, weathered the Great Recession that shrank much of the boating industry.
The 55-year-old company quadrupled in size over the past six years because of innovative products and manufacturing. Their sideways thrusters make docking a cinch. Solar panels, diesel engines and a unique hull design all increase efficiency and convenience.
Their boats are also designed to easily fit on a trailer. These “boater homes” even double as campers during cross-country road trips. The company buys its thousands of parts locally, which allows them to keep an eye on quality and quickly respond to potential problems in the supply chain.
The 2013 Manufacturing Excellence Awards are sponsored by UPS and the AWB Institute, AWB’s manufacturing, education and workforce development arm.
“As the state’s manufacturing association, AWB understands the value of manufacturing to Washington’s economy,” said Kris Johnson, AWB vice president of operations. “These businesses are perfect examples of the innovation at work in Washington state. They represent where the manufacturing industry is headed.
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