Hendrickson Truck Suspension Systems was awarded the
2005 Industry of Year Award by the Marion County Industrial Foundation.
The award, presented during the second annual Marion County Industry
Appreciation and awards luncheon on Wednesday, November 30, 2005.Hendrickson Truck Suspension Systems established its plant in Lebanon in 1998. Since then it has double its size and productivity. In 2005, it had increased sales of 46%, added new customers and new lines at the Lebanon Manufacturing facility. Other areas that contribute to the successful growth of Hendrickson are the addition of laser machinery, a machining center and robotic welders.
In addition to manufacturing axle and suspension systems for the Class 8 Truck Industry, Hendrickson is venturing into new markets. Moving into 2006, Hendrickson in Lebanon, Kentucky will begin manufacturing axle and suspension systems for the RV Industry creating new business and product lines, as well as new jobs within the plant.
In spring of 2005, the latest expansion was completed at the facility. The expansion added 30,000 additional square feet to the existing 50,000 square foot plant.. The expansion is a welcomed addition due to the growth in the product lines, equipment and personnel.
Anticipating more growth, plans for additional expansions are underway for 2006. The space is being designated for additional offices, a new and larger break room for employees, training rooms and additional conference rooms.
Thirty (30) new employees were hired in 2005 with less than 2% attrition rate for the year. New salary positions have been added in the engineering department due to the growth in business/product lines. Anticipated growth could mean as many as 20 additional employees in 2006.
Community involvement and sponsorship of events provides Hendrickson and its employees the opportunity to participate in worthy causes. The company and employees from all Hendrickson locations responded generously to the Katrina Relief Fund donating $100,000 to the Salvation Army and the American Red Cross to be used in relief efforts. At the corporate level, Hendrickson participated in the relief efforts by matching employee donations from all locations on a “two for one” basis.
Hendrickson annually supports over 20 organizations in Lebanon donating over $5,000. It also participates by volunteering in community projects, piloting cardboard recycling project, provide material to MC Vocational Technology Center for welding training purposes.
The Executive Director of the Marion County Industrial Foundation, Ton Lund, noted that Lebanon and Marion County are very fortunate to have a company of Hendrickson’s stature located in the community.