Harman Becker Automotive Systems was named Industry of the Year at the annual Industry Appreciation Luncheon held last Thursday at the First Baptist Church Christian Life Center.

The world leader of branded audio systems for the automotive industry, Harman Becker opened in 2000 at its site on U.S. 31-W North and has since undergone two expansions. Its employment has grown from 93 to 425. Among its customers are Toyota, Lexus and Mercedes Benz.

“Franklin continues to be a key plant for Harman Becker,” said Phil Eyler, the first plant manager in Franklin and now vice president of North America operations. “It is recognized by Harman as a benchmark industry...We continue to look for more opportunities here.”

Eyler praised the assistance Harman Becker has received and continues to receive from local and state officials.

“What is important is continued support. Of course, you can get help when you locate somewhere or expand. But, we are given tools to operate day to day,” Eyler said.

Eyler and Franklin Plant Manager Terry Davenport accepted the Industry of the Year award. Davenport also praised the local support as well as the management team and workforce at Harman Becker. He noted that Harman employees are good community citizens.

Eyler said the Franklin facility boasts one of the strongest management teams in the worldwide company. “We can’t thank team members (employees) enough,” Eyler said. “They are our greatest asset.”

The Industry of the Year designation is presented to an industry that has 50 or more employees and has made significant contributions to the community.

The award was presented to Harman Becker by George Burgess, commissioner of the Department for Existing Business Development.

“This (Harman) is a company you value as a great corporate citizen,” Burgess said.

Harman Becker consistently donates money, prizes and time to organizations, including Franklin-Simpson Schools, Habitat for Humanity, Relay for Life (American Cancer Society), BRASS (Barren River Area Safe Space - Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence) and VSA Arts (Artistic Expression for Individuals with Disabilities).

Previous Industry of the Year recipients include ArvinMeritor Industries, Key Oil Company, Quebecor, Franklin Precision Industry, Luvata and Silgan Plastics.

Burgess singled out Franklin for its business-friendly attitude and cooperation of government officials. “The Economic Development Cabinet considers Franklin and Simpson County as a great partner,” he said.

Burgess said the technical college under construction in the Sanders East Industrial Park will be key to retaining and attracting industry. “There is no more important of a partner in economic development than education.”

The Franklin technical college is scheduled to open in March 2008.

A soldout crowd of over 300 came together last Thursday to celebrate the continue success of economic development. Industrial Authority Chairman Gary Broady said that despite Simpson County’s small geographic size, it ranks 14th out of the 120 counties in Kentucky in terms of industrial jobs.