March 12, 2021
Champion Controls is a leading system integration, engineering and control systems manufacturer. In layperson terms, they provide the control systems that help to power Florida’s 100 moveable bridges, numerous water management projects, and traffic control and lighting from Miami International’s Concourse J to the Port of Miami Tunnel.
The company was started in 2003 by owner and CEO, Chantal Wedderburn. Since then, the business has worked with some of the industry’s best design engineers to develop solutions for the movable bridge, water and watershed industries. Champion Controls’ far-reaching work has provided control systems for the majority of bridge rehabilitations across the state of Florida, as well as in Canada, Louisiana, New York and Massachusetts. It has twice been recognized as the “Manufacturer of the Year for South Florida” and “Minority Manufacturer of the Year.”
Not only is Champion Controls a leader in its industry, it is also making a major impact in its surrounding community. This African American woman-owned business is located in a highly distressed area of Fort Lauderdale and boasts a 40-person strong workforce of engineers, fabricators, welders, wire technicians, warehouse workers and administrators. Committed to bringing more diversity and inclusion to the industry, its staff includes people of many different backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of the neighborhood as well. The company also engages in targeted hiring efforts with local workforce agencies to attract talent from underserved communities. Further, its work in local schools to develop mentorship programs helps set a foundation for higher occupational and educational outcomes and give people and families a clear path to financial stability.
Businesses like Champion Controls are a shining example of how innovative work paired with community-focused job creation can lead to tremendous outcomes.
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