The AEMA Excellence in Manufacturing Award

To provide a measurement of best practices, an avenue for continuous improvement, a way to demonstrate good corporate citizenship, and community friendly operations, AEMA has developed the AEMA Excellence in Manufacturing Award.

This award, introduced in April 2018, will recognize AEMA member manufacturing facilities that meet or exceed AEMA requirements. Based on a self-assessment application, criteria include plant appearance, operations, quality control laboratory, environmental practices, safety, and community relations. By following the blueprint provided in the self-assessment and earning this award, participating member facilities can be assured they are following best practices in all areas of manufacturing.

Awarded on annual basis, qualifying plants will initially achieve Bronze level. The award may be renewed for four more years before progressing to Silver level. Gold level is reached after 10 consecutive years.  Continuous improvement can be measured via comparison of total points earned year-over-year.

Award winners will be recognized annually at the Annual Meeting.  They will receive a handsome plaque the first year, with date plate awarded in subsequent years until next level is reached.  AEMA will distribute press releases to the industry trade press as well as any local press desired. Vinyl silo stickers will also be available for purchased by recipients, to provide additional recognition for having met these requirement.

Deadlines and Fees

Bronze Level Applicants & Renewals:

Early Bird Deadline - August 1st, 2024 - $350.00 application fee

Regular Deadline - October 31, 2024 - $400.00 application fee

RENEWAL Deadline - October 31, 2024 - $125.00 renewal fee

All applications and renewals MUST be received by October 31, 2024. Applications and renewals received after that date will not be considered.  Once received, AEMA staff will generate an invoice for the appropriate fee, which must be paid within 30 days.

Silver Level Applicants*:

Early Bird Deadline - August 1st, 2024 - $350.00 application fee

Regular Deadline - October 31, 2024 - $400.00 application fee

All applications MUST be received by October 31, 2024. Applications  received after that date will not be considered. *To qualify for a Silver Level Application, the applicant MUST be a five year Bronze Level.  Once received, AEMA staff will generate an invoice for the appropriate fee, which must be paid within 30 days.

Application

The application includes a self-assessment and submission of a minimum 5 but no more than 10 photographs, and signature of affidavits.  Application is available as a printable/fillable PDF which may be saved/scanned and sent in to morganb@cmservices.com by the deadline. 

2024 SILVER Application - Download Here
2024 BRONZE Application- Download Here

Applications should be submitted to morganb@cmservices.com.  Questions may also be directed to 630.942.6579.

Renewal

A full new application is not required for renewal at the same award level. Plants eligible for renewal will be sent a copy of their previous application and a spreadsheet to provide any updated information.  Plants having fulfilled their renewals at the Bronze Level and seeking movement to Silver Level will be required to submit a full application. Please note Silver Level Applications are only available to those plants who have continuously been awarded Bronze Status beginning in 2018. 

Click here for 20223 Recipients  

Click here for 2022 Recipients

Click here for 2021 Recipients

Click here for 2020 Recipients

Click here for 2019 Recipients

Click here for 2018 Recipients