Muskogee honored as minority manufacturer

Published 6:51 am Monday, August 20, 2007

By By Adrienne McKenzie – Special to the Standard
Muskogee Metalworks has received national recognition as the National Minority Manufacturer of the Year.
The National Minority Manufacturer of the Year award is given away annually to minority manufacturers that are certified.
The award is given by the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Minority Business Development Agency.
McGhee will accept the award in Atlanta August 20. However, Atlanta is not the only city recognizing the Atmore-based company.
In order to qualify as the National Minority Manufacturer of the Year, a company must be a certified minority manufacturer. Also, the company must be nominated by a minority organization.
Muskogee Metalworks is a company in corporation with the Creek Indian Enterprises, which is part of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.
Muskogee Metalworks was chosen from many applicants to be given the National Minority Manufacturer of the Year award.
There were applicants from all over the United States. A small group of the applicants were submitted to a selection committee at a national level.
Even though McGhee has not officially accepted the award, because of the award he has seen an increase in awareness of the company.
According to the Muskogee Metalworks Web site, the company has been in business for 18 years. Primarily, Muskogee Metalworks deals with designing and manufacturing metal fabricated hardware.
The product line includes electronic assemblies and electro-mechanical production. Approximately 40 employees work at the Muskogee Metalworks site in Atmore.
Muskogee Metalworks is a growing company and with that growth, relationships are established which produces more business opportunities.
The U.S. Air Force has been a good branch of the military to work with for the past 10 years, according to McGhee.
Muskogee Metalworks employees use information to develop the company in all areas.
Coastal Gateway Regional Economic Development Authority president Wiley Blankenship said in the press release that he is happy with the announcement of Muskogee Metalworks' recognition.