The Arizona Manufacturers Council has announced the recipients of the 2026 Manufacturer of the Year Awards, recognizing companies making an impact across Arizona’s manufacturing sector. These awards recognize excellence across seven categories, from manufacturing growth and innovation to sustainability and industry leadership.
“Arizona manufacturers continue to grow, invest and innovate in ways that strengthen the state’s economy and expand what gets made here,” said Grace Appelbe, executive director of the Arizona Manufacturers Council. “This year’s honorees reflect the depth of that work, from longstanding Arizona companies to major industrial operations and emerging technologies.”
Small Manufacturer of the Year — Valley Forge & Bolt: Recognized for our fastener solutions used in demanding environments as well as our patented technology that allows operators to monitor bolt tension in real time, allowing for improved safety, reliability, and maintenance, Valley Forge & Bolt is honored to receive this designation from the Arizona Manufacturers Council and we look forward to continuing our mission supporting mining, oil and gas, and other critical environments around the globe.
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in partnership with the Arizona Manufacturers Council, also hosted The Hottest Thing Made in Arizona competition where Valley Forge & Bolt also came out on top.
This award is a celebration of the state’s innovative and dynamic manufacturing community as one of the fastest-growing manufacturing sectors in the country, employing more than 630,000 people and contributing over $77 billion annually to Arizona’s economy. Valley Forge & Bolt was named a finalist in September 2026, and voting opened to the public. Just after receiving the Small Manufacturer of the Year award at the annual awards ceremony, it was revealed that we also won the Hottest Thing Made in Arizona competition.
We are grateful to be recognized for the hard work and innovation we strive toward every day for both our local Arizona community as well as the customers we support around the globe.
