Manufacturing Matters Because People Matter
The Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized four outstanding manufacturers at the annual Manufacturing Matters dinner on Oct. 1 at CenterPlace Regional Event Center.
This year’s theme, Manufacturing Matters Because People Matter, was reflected throughout the evening. From the companies recognized for their excellence to the stories shared, we were reminded that successful organizations are built by people who feel valued, trusted, and empowered to contribute.
Terry Judge, CEO of Hotstart, moderated the featured conversation between several members of the Hotstart team, representing different roles and levels within the company. Attendees enjoyed a genuine discussion on career journeys and how employees at every level contribute to a company’s growth, shape workplace culture, and help our locally rooted manufacturers compete nationally and globally.
“Manufacturing is one of the foundations of our regional economy, but its impact reaches far beyond the products made here. Our manufacturers create meaningful careers, invest in their employees, support local organizations and help position our region for success.” said Jessica Laughery, Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce President and CEO.
This evening would not have been possible without the support of the Manufacturing Matters 2026 sponsors: Bank of America; Spokane Colleges; Wagstaff, Inc.; Business Health Trust; Inland Empire Paper Co.; Career Connect Northeast, Fueled by GSI; Nothing Bundt Cakes.
Manufacturing Connect: The Next Generation of Talent
The evening’s agenda also highlighted the Valley Chamber’s Manufacturing Connect program that brings Spokane Valley Tech’s Advanced Manufacturing students into local manufacturing facilities for meaningful, hands-on tours. These visits allow students to step onto a production floor, meet employees and discover the range of technologies, skills, and career paths available right here in our community.
If your company would be interested in becoming a Manufacturing Connect tour stop, please reach out to our Chamber team! We would love to connect with you and explore how your organization can help introduce students to the future of manufacturing.
2026 Manufacturing Excellence Awards Winners
Manufacturer of the Year: Kaiser Aluminum
Kaiser Aluminum’s Trentwood facility has been part of our region’s manufacturing story for generations, producing advanced aluminum plate and sheet used in aerospace and other demanding applications. Its continued investment in technology, quality, people and the future of the Spokane Valley operation reflects the broad leadership this award recognizes.
Operational Excellence: Norfolk Iron & Metal
Norfolk Iron & Metal combines significant production capacity with an ongoing commitment to quality, efficiency and customer service. Its Spokane operation processes and distributes structural steel, plate, sheet, tube and other materials that support manufacturers and industries throughout our region.
Innovation Award: Spokane Seed Company
For more than four generations, Spokane Seed Co. has grown and adapted while remaining family-owned and rooted in our region. Its leadership in processing dry peas, lentils and chickpeas shows how innovation can strengthen an established industry, create new opportunities for local growers and help Inland Northwest products reach markets well beyond our region.
Community Champion: Solstice Advanced Materials
Watch the Highlights
Learn more about each of this year’s Manufacturing Excellence Awards winners by watching the videos below.
2026 Manufacturing Excellence Awards
Since 1921, the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce has been the catalyst for building relationships, driving collaboration, and championing opportunity for the Greater Spokane Valley. Today, the Valley Chamber serves businesses and organization members throughout the Greater Spokane Valley, including the cities of Spokane Valley, Millwood, Liberty Lake, and unincorporated areas of Spokane County.
