News Summary
Governor Kay Ivey recently celebrated five Alabama companies at the State Capitol with the 2025 Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards. These awards recognize businesses that have significantly impacted Alabama’s economy through successful global engagement. The honored companies include Central Steel Service, SEA Wire and Cable, Silver Ships, Special Shapes Refractory Co., and System Studies & Simulation Inc. Governor Ivey also acknowledged Mercedes-Benz U.S. International for its contributions to Alabama’s export strength. The event highlights the importance of international trade in fostering economic growth in Alabama.
Montgomery, Alabama – Governor Kay Ivey recently honored five Alabama companies with the 2025 Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards during a ceremony at the State Capitol. The event, held on Wednesday, recognizes businesses that have made significant contributions to Alabama’s economy through international engagement and success in global markets.
The five companies that received the prestigious awards are:
- Central Steel Service (Pelham): A distributor specializing in corrosion-resistant steel products.
- SEA Wire and Cable (Huntsville): A supplier of wire and cable products used in aerospace and military applications.
- Silver Ships (Theodore): A manufacturer known for producing aluminum workboats.
- Special Shapes Refractory Co. (Bessemer): A producer of custom refractory components.
- System Studies & Simulation Inc. (Huntsville): A defense contractor focusing on flight training and technical services.
In addition, Governor Ivey acknowledged Mercedes-Benz U.S. International for its crucial role in enhancing Alabama’s export strength and improving the state’s global business reputation. The company has been instrumental in promoting the “Made in Alabama” brand through its export activities.
In 2024, Alabama’s exports reached a remarkable $26.8 billion, which is the second-highest total ever recorded for the state. This figure represents a nearly 30% increase compared to levels seen before the pandemic. Products manufactured in Alabama were exported to a total of 194 countries, with motor vehicles being among the top-demand items.
During the awards ceremony, Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair highlighted the critical role that international engagement plays in fostering economic growth across the state. Additionally, Mike Lee, a licensed Customs House Broker from Page & Jones, was honored for his decades-long contributions to Alabama’s international logistics sector.
Governor Ivey proclaimed May as “World Trade Month” in Alabama, recognizing the significance of international trade to the state’s economic development. Christina Stimpson, Chief Officer of Global Business for the Alabama Department of Commerce, praised Mike Lee’s dedication and influence in encouraging maritime trade and advocating for international trade initiatives within the state.
This ceremony underscores the ongoing commitment of Alabama’s leadership to support and celebrate businesses that excel on the international stage. The honored companies, together with figures like Mike Lee, are vital to driving the state’s economic progress and enhancing its global competitiveness.
The focus on international trade and recognition of excellence in this area highlights the importance of fostering strong business ties worldwide and maximizing economic opportunities for companies operating within Alabama.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Business Alabama
- Calhoun Journal
- WSFA
- WAKA
- Alabama Reporter
- Wikipedia: International Trade
- Google Search: Governor Ivey Alabama Trade Excellence Awards
- Google Scholar: Alabama businesses exports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: International Trade
- Google News: Alabama exporters
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
