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VideosDec 10, 2014
Grasshopper named 2014 Company of the Year by manufacturing professional society
WICHITA, Kan. The Grasshopper Company was chosen as 2014 Company of the Year by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), Chapter 52 and received recognition from the organization at a Dec. 9 ceremony in Wichita. Grasshopper Company President Stan Guyer accepted the award at The Petroleum Club in Wichita, Kansas during the Societys annual installation of officers. Grasshopper was recognized due, in part, tor manufacturing processes observed during a tour of the companys headquarters and factory located in Moundridge, Kan., in May, 2014, in comparison to other manufacturing facilities toured during the year. The companys products, consisting of commercial-grade zero-turn mowers and grounds maintenance systems, were also factored into the award. During the award presentation, acting SME 52 chairman Martin Fisher said, We were impressed with how efficiently the company operates in a concise environment, and were also very impressed with the companys versatile products. They pay a lot of attention to the ergonomics of the product. In a separate statement, SME 52 President Stuart Roberts noted, Who knew that so many different types of mowers, with so many options, were made for not just US consumers but also exported throughout the world. Grass cutting has reached a phenomenal level of technology. SME 52 Tour Director Chairman Mike Kreil of Spirit Aerosystems echoed those thoughts, calling Grasshopper an amazing company. Recent facilities and process upgrades include additions to laser, welding and assembly robotics and an expanded powder coat paint system. Each upgrade in our manufacturing process translates to increased precision and overall durability of our products, adding value for our customers who remain our overall number one focus, says Ruthanne Stucky, Grasshoppers Director of Marketing. Guyer said the award is especially significant considering that the companys guiding principles include manufacturing excellence and product quality. Our manufacturing process is a great source of pride, it represents who we are and what were committed to. We believe these investments are investments in our future not only for our company, but for our community, our county and our state. Were proud that SME recognized our pursuit of engineering and manufacturing excellence. SME was founded in 1932 to advance the mechanical engineering profession, which today covers technologies such as lean, automation and robotics, test and measurement, and machining and material removal. Chapter 52 serves its members and the greater south-central Kansas manufacturing community through the advancement of professionalism, knowledge and the promotion of manufacturing education. (Photo Caption) Pictured receiving the award at the Dec. 9 SME 52 ceremony are Ryan Wiebe, Safety and Environmental Coordinator and Stan Guyer, President of The Grasshopper Company.
About Grasshopper
The Grasshopper Company is a privately held corporation dedicated solely to the design and production of commercial and large-acreage mowing and grounds maintenance equipment. Grasshopper introduced the first zero-turn radius mower with dual swing-out levers in 1969, and other industry firsts include the first liquid-cooled diesel-powered zero-turn radius mower in 1983 and the first electric-actuated fold-up mower deck in 2004. Based in Moundridge, Kan., the company distributes its products worldwide and is committed to lean and clean manufacturing practices reducing impact to the environment.
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