Copied from Taylor Daily Press | Jason Hennington lifestyles@taylordailypress.net

“Local industries serve as economic engines for our community,� TEDC President/CEO Sean Stockard explained when presenting the award at the annual industry appreciation luncheon. “The employers considered for this award have significantly contributed to Taylor’s interest and economic vitality “They are companies that have bolstered current industries or changed the local business landscape.�

Durcon is considered the world’s leading manufacturer of laboratory-grade work surfaces. Best known for its durable epoxy resin surfaces, the Taylor-based manufacturer provides laboratory tops, student tabletops, sinks and other work surfaces for laboratories around the world and throughout the U.S. – including the classroom lab at Manor High School visited by President Barak Obama earlier this year.

The third recipient of the award, Durcon was chosen for specific milestones that affected the community in a positive manner, Stockard said.

“This company is a strong business partner and avid supporter of local charities and civic activities,� he said.

Durcon’s Charity Committee just this year created the Durcon Dolls for Children program at Scott and White hospital-Taylor. Funds were provided for hand-sewn dolls to be given to children treated in the hospital emergency room.

The company has been involved in other charity work, as well, including a paper drive for the Taylor Head Start Program, a cold weather clothes drive for the homeless and a holiday food drive for Shepherd’s Heart Pantry – collecting 2,160 pounds of canned and packaged foods.

Durcon also made a monetary donation to WWII Veterans Honor Flight to Washington. The donation will allow Honor Flight Austin’s mission of transporting WWII or terminally ill veterans to Washington D.C. to see the memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices.

Earlier this month, the company was identified as an outstanding employer by the Texas Workforce Commission and Local Workforce Development Board. Durcon received the 2013 Employer Award of Excellence at the 17th Annual Texas Workforce Conference, along with 27 other employers.

Durcon was also named a finalist for the 2013 Texas Workforce Solutions Employer of the Year. The five finalists were chosen from among 25 private-sector employers nominated by their Local Workforce Development Boards for their contributions to the community’s workforce through innovation and collaboration with the Texas workforce system. The nominated employers exemplify TWC’s mission of promoting and supporting an effective workforce system that offers employers, individuals and communities the opportunity to achieve and sustain economic prosperity.

“All five Employer of the Year finalists were nominated based on their demonstrated commitment to their workers and communities, and their contributions to the Texas economy,� TWC Chairman Andres Alcantar.

Durcon was also was recognized by The Austin Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with GlobalAustin, the City of Austin, and the State of Texas, with the 2013 Medium Business Export Award at the Third Annual Austin International Export Awards earlier this year.