The 19th annual meeting of the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development is in the books and it was, all kinds of weather aside, a great opportunity to bring together our friend and partners on a topic important to us all: Keeping our economy strong and vibrant.
A tradition of our annual meetings is the presentation of awards by Commissioner Jeffrey Rose to recognize businesses that keep our economy robust.
Companies of the Year
Stephane Lefevbre, left, and Vincent Audet, right, of Codet Corp., accept the Company of the Year Award from Department of Resources and Economic Development Commissioner Rose. Presented to the Colebrook company, which is headquarted in Coaticook, Que., the award recognizes Codet’s expansion and its commitment to New Hampshire. Earlier this year, announced it would build an 11,500-square-foot addition and hire 25 new employees. The company makes outdoor and protective apparel with the Big Bill brand. “Over 20 years ago, in 1992, the Department of Resources and Economic Development worked with the company on its move across the border into Colebrook, where it has been ever since, becoming one of the cornerstones of the local economy,” Rose said.
Christopher K. Hodgdon, senior director for State Government Affairs at Comcast, left, accepts the Company of the Year award from Commissioner Rose. The award recognizes Comcast’s expansion in the state this year, in developing a call center in Hudson, which has the capacity for 600 employees. “This expansion represents significant in investment in New Hampshire by a company that has already proven to be a great neighbor and partner,” Rose said, noting that the company’s total employee investment was more than $150 million and its community investments totaled $2 million around the state.
Most Valuable Partner
Robert E. Michalski, vice president of operations for Lindt & Sprüngli in Straham, accepts the Most Valuable Partner Award from Commissioner Rose. The commissioner’s award recognizes the company for its support of the division and its commitment to New Hampshire. “In the midst of its growth, Lindt recognizes its need, and the needs of its neighbors, to have a strong workforce and is working with regional partners to help address future needs,” Rose said. “It is also generous in its support of our events and initiatives and when we need to showcase the best of our state, we can count on this company to help us.”
Rookie of the Year
Paul Jensen, CEO of HALO Maritime Defense Systems in Newton, left, accepts the Rookie of the Year award from Commissioner Rose. The award recognized HALO for its move to New Hampshire last year and its “confidence in the resources New Hampshire has to help it grow,” Rose said.
Teamwork Award
Alex Ray, left, and Rusty McLear, of Granite State Hospitality, accept the Teamwork Award from Commissioner Rose. Ray and McLear were honored for their work in the redevelopment of the Hooksett Welcome Centers. “This year’s award recognizes the vision of two men and their love of New Hampshire,” Rose said. “It also represents a public-private partnership and enhanced services that will provide a first and last impression for travelers on their way to vacation destinations on the northbound side and when they depart for home, on the southbound side.”
Employer Recognition Award
Jon Plodzik, director of Dining Services at the University of New Hampshire, center, receives the Employer Recognition award from Jim Hinson, left, of the New Hampshire Department of Education- Vocational Rehabilitation, left and Commissioner Rose. The award recognizes UNH and its Dining Services for creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Congratulations to all!
Lorna Colquhoun
Communications Director
NH Division of Economic Development