Winner
Manufacturing & Distribution
Ken Meador has two passions: surfing and serving. The first drives him to take any opportunity to catch some waves in Fiji, Costa Rica or any place the surf is up. The second drives him to build and maintain a culture that puts employees and customers first at TWR Lighting Inc.
Meador, the company’s president, has implemented a number of people-first initiatives for his employees, from the amusing — such as flip-flop Fridays — to more substantial programs such as profit sharing. Meador helps to instill a sense of ownership among the company’s employees while providing customers with leading-edge technology, excellent service and reasonable pricing.
After taking the reins of TWR in 1994 following a 10-year career as an advertising executive, Meador helped the company to evolve into a global engineer, manufacturer and marketer of aviation obstruction lighting systems, illuminating potential aviation hazards such as broadcast towers and wind farm turbines.
Meador used his experience as an advertising executive to guide the company in a new direction, using the business initiatives he observed at large companies to create an open-book business style and developing a culture of oneness. During the recent economic downturn, TWR capitalized on the opportunity to increase market share as the economy improves by keeping all personnel, increasing its presence at trade shows and keeping true to Meador’s business model.
Meador and his company have taken each challenge as an opportunity to increase the company’s core strengths and competencies, solidify the unification of people throughout the organization, allow for professional growth among all employees and continue to grow the business through outstanding customer service.
The future holds more potential for change and growth for TWR, with the possible acquisition of other lighting companies and synergies with its sister company, which operates primarily offshore navigational aid devices.
How to reach: TWR Lighting Inc., (713) 973-6905 or www.twrlighting.com
