What is a123 Systems? Founded in 2001, A123Systems’ proprietary Nanophosphate™ technology is built on a new, highly active nanoscale material initially developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The company has raised over $250 million in private funding to date from a variety of high profile investors.

A123Systems is now one of the world’s leading suppliers of high-power lithium ion batteries using our patented Nanophosphate™ technology to deliver previously unattainable levels of power, safety and life.

What Makes a123 a Cool Company? Our breakthrough technology, innovative multinational manufacturing model, team of tier-one investors, and industry leading executives are providing the power to change the game for today’s OEM, Transportation, and Cordless Solutions manufacturers.

What makes Abbott Laboratories a Cool Company? When you work for Abbott, you make a difference in the lives of others. Our employees work in a dynamic environment that inspires innovation, caring, and sustained achievements by individual employees and teams.

• Read More…

We recognize and reward talent through comprehensive learning and development programs and competitive compensation. Our Growth Planning and Performance Excellence processes help you grow in your current role and create a career path that is right for you. We also have a formal Onboarding process that will help you get up-to-speed in your new role quickly and effectively.

What is Accio Energy? Accio Energy  creates Aerovoltaic wind energy systems: A new direction in wind energy. This is a wind technology to provide better distributed wind energy solutions.

What Makes Accio a Cool Company? Leading the way in the realm of alternative energy with the excitement of innovation and invention allows employees the opportunity to be part of changing the world.

Points of Note:
Frankel Fund Invests in Wind Energy Device
Accio Energy Wins NSF Grant to Develop Game Changing Wind Energy Technology
Ann Arbor and Warren: A Tale of Two Economies

What is Adaptive Materials? Adaptive Materials is an innovator in the development of portable power created from solid oxide fuel cell technology. Using readily available fuels such as propane, our fuel cell systems empower organizations and individuals with clean, compact and long lasting portable power.

What Makes Your Company a Cool Company? Adaptive Materials is a place that encourages a fierce pursuit of innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. We are not just an experiment workshop; we are a place that creates real world solutions to help solve their power needs today.

Points of Note:
Three year recipient of the FastTrack Award from Ann Arbor Spark
Michelle Crumm, Chief Business Officer, 2009 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Winner in the Product Innovation category for the Central Great Lakes region

What is ADVS? ADVS is a government subcontract manufacturer of custom armored vehicles. Formerly known as General Purpose Vehicles (GPV), ADVS has moved to Lake Orion, MI , continuing its innovative design and manufacturing know-how.

What Makes ADVS a Cool Company? The very concept of ADVS is 'cool', but truly being a part of ADVS is even cooler! At ADVS, we're all a part of something truly unique and inspiring.

As James LeBlanc Sr (CEO) and James LeBlanc Jr (President) remind us routinely, "the product is nothing without the people who work to make it happen." The assure us that it isn't the building, the products, or the sign in front of our facility; it's each of us individually contributing to the whole that makes ADVS what it is. ADVS members (not employees) each have unique talents and ideas that make us successful. But in addition, it is something more unique that really makes ADVS a cool company to work for. It is also our common 'attitude' that can't be taught, but is further inspired by ADVS.

We work hard, but we have a lot of fun. Not all companies mean it when they say that the doors are always open- where you can express an idea, ask a question or even just share a laugh. Have you ever seen a CEO sit down with a member's visiting child at his conference table during a busy day? Just to talk to them and make him/her feel special. Have you ever had your manager tell you part of their job is doing whatever he/she can to make your job as great as it can be? Have you ever had the president of your company take time out on a Saturday morning for an impromptu tour when a member's family comes in unannounced? That's our company- that's ADVS. At ADVS, we're all a part of the family and our families are part of the ADVS family.

Almost daily we hear members saying, "I can't believe they actually pay me to work here." ADVS provides opportunities that you don't often find in work places. We see the results of our efforts at every level whether it's the creation of a new design of a system, implementation of a new program or contributing to the assembly of a vehicle. We not only see it happen, but we are all a part of 'making' it happen. Here at ADVS it's not just the pat on the back, but knowing that you are a part of something bigger. All of this makes you want to work harder, reach a little higher and strive to make a difference.

It's more than our holiday parties. It's more than the incredible insurance benefits. It's more than simply collecting a paycheck. There is a sense of pride in being a part of this company. There's something about seeing true camaraderie each day, in feeling that you are valued, and in sharing common goals with people who have a common attitude. There's something about knowing that you're exactly where you belong and being so grateful for it. ADVS goes far beyond being a 'cool company' to work for. ADVS is a cool team to be a part of!

Points of Note: 2009 Property tax abatement by the Charter Township of Orion
2009 State of Michigan MEGA Tax Credit

What is Advanced Photonix? A leading supplier of opto-electronic solutions and Terahertz sensors and instrumentation to a global OEM customer base. Our solutions are based on our patented high speed optical receivers in III-V materials in APD and PIN configurations and silicon Large Area Avalanche Photodiode (LAAPD), PIN photodiode and FILTRODE® detectors.
 

What Makes Advanced Photonix a Cool Company? API supports the customer from the initial concept by the designing of the semiconductor, hybridization of support electronics, packaging and signal conditioning or processing from prototype through full-scale production and validation/test. Our served markets are: Telecom, Homeland Security, Military, Medical, and Industrial/NDT.

Company Description: After 5 Detroit connects Metro Detroit's young professionals with the best that the area has to offer. Our website is updated regularly to highlight an eclectic variety of events, destinations and fun information that will make living, working and playing in Detroit even more enjoyable.

What Makes After 5 a Cool Company? The After 5 Detroit staff defines the cliche 'work hard, play hard'! We have fun searching for the top events, hotspots, people and places throughout Metro Detroit to showcase the lifestyle and opportunites for our region's young professionals.

What Makes Alticor a Cool Company? As an $8 billion dollar pioneer in the direct selling industry, Amway has been helping the world live better since 1959. We support more than 3 million independent business owners and 14,000 employees worldwide who provide products and services in more than 80 countries. we are accountants and marketers, farmers and scientists, outstanding leaders and sought-after experts. Based in Ada,Michigan, Amway creates unique, high-quality health, beauty, personal care and home care products.

Amway brings together strong, collaborative people in a dynamic culture of mutual respect, support, and passion for the brand and product. We believe innovation drives winning performance, and we constantly challenge ourselves to be the very best we can in every aspect of our business. You will be surrounded by some of the best and brightest people in the industry. At Amway you will be in great company.

What is Amway? Established in 1959, Amway and our family of companies now employ more than 14,000 people worldwide. We are pioneers in the direct selling industry, offering more than three million people an opportunity to become entrepreneurs in more than 80 countries and territories. More than 450 products are sold through our independent business owners (IBOs), primarily focused on health, wellness, and beauty, led by our flagship brands Nutrilite and Artistry.

Why Work for Amway? What does that mean to you? That our company is big – and growing. And we offer many exciting, global career opportunities. But while we're big, our employees are always part of a smaller core team, designed to help people learn, share ideas, and have a meaningful experience during their time with us.

What Makes Amway a Cool Company?

• We value our employees.
• Better benefits.
• Long-standing environmental commitment.
• Exercise and wellness programs for a more Optimal You.
• International career opportunities.
• Global research and development.
• Award-winning operational excellence.
• A culture of innovation.
• We do what is right, not just "whatever works."
• Making a difference... one by one.

What is ANX? ANX delivers managed services to help companies securely exchange information between offices and remote workers and across partner collaboration chains. The ANX core competencies include: 1) deep technical knowledge, 2) broad experience as a provider of mission-critical data connectivity and transaction solutions, 3) a passion for customer support and 4) a proven record of enabling collaboration across multiple value chains. ANX provides an innovative suite of managed services including: Managed Network Services, Transaction Services and Lifecycle Management Services.

What is Arbor Research Collaborative? The Arbor Research Collaborative for Health conducts major studies in epidemiology and public health. In particular, Arbor Research offers expertise in biostatistical analysis, clinical practice, management and integration of large data sets, economics, and public policy. Since 1997 we have engaged in health outcomes research on chronic disease and end-stage organ failure, including the international Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (www.dopps.org), the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (www.ustransplant.org), and numerous studies for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Arbor Research is a not-for-profit research organization based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

What is the Arthritis Foundation? The Arthritis Foundation is the only national not-for-profit organization that supports the more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions.  Founded in 1948, with headquarters in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation has multiple service points located throughout the country. The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $380 million in research grants since 1948. The foundation helps people take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis.

What Makes the Arthritis Foundation a Cool Company? With countless forms of outreach and events the Arthritis Foundation of Michigan touches numerous people who suffer dairly from this disease including the more than 10,000 children in Michigan alone. Fun filled events including the Jingle Bell Run, Bone Bash and more make for great times for a great cause each and every year.

Company Description: Aspen Surgical is a worldwide leader of specialty medical products. With facilities in the U.K. and headquarters in Caledonia Michigan, we offer on-site capabilities in manufacturing, packaging, distribution, quality assurance, sales and marketing. Through our capabilities and product offerings, Aspen Surgical serves a variety of customers including both domestic and international distributors and hospitals. Aspen Surgical's mission is to provide best-value, quality products that our customers can trust.

What Makes Aspen Surgical a Cool Company? Aspen Surgical offers a growing and dynamic environment aimed at driving sales, serving our customers and providing new opportunities for our employees. We promote a culture that is fun and open to new ideas. Employees can see first-hand how our products are made from idea all the way to implementation, with teamwork playing a vital role.

Lastly, Aspen Surgical employees can feel proud of the fact that the products they are making each day help to aid in the care and healing of human lives!

Points of Note:

Aspen Surgical is proud ot have been voted one of 2009 101 WEST MICHIGAN BEST AND BRIGHTEST COMPANIES TO WORK FOR

In addition, we are excited to have received the following distinguished honors from some of our largest customers for our commitment to serving them:

Supplier of the Year
Private Brand Award
Sustainability Award

What is Asterand? Asterand plc is the leading global supplier of high quality, well characterized human tissue and human tissue-based research services to drug discovery scientists. Our mission is to provide human tissues and services to accelerate the identification and validation of drug targets and enhance the selection of drug candidates with an increased likelihood of clinical success.

Formed in January 2006 from the merger of Asterand, a human tissue biorepository, and Pharmagene, a human tissue-based drug discovery company, we are uniquely positioned to provide a comprehensive approach to meet the research needs of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. From our offices in Royston (United Kingdom) and Detroit, Michigan we have more than 90 employees focused on providing services and products to accelerate drug discovery research from target identification through to compound evaluation and drug safety.

What Makes Asterand a Cool Company? Asterand is a global supplier of high quality, well characterized human tissue and human tissue-based research services. From our offices in Royston, UK and Detroit, Michigan, our innovative professionals use their expertise to help drug discovery scientists accelerate the identification and validation of human drug targets.

What is BAE Systems? BAE Systems is the premier global defense and aerospace company, delivering a full range of products and services for air, land, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions, and customer support services. With 105,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems had 2008 sales of $34.4 billion.

What Makes BAE a Cool Company? People are the greatest asset in any Company ...

BAE Systems is committed to a high performance culture and provides an environment that challenges our employees to be remarkable and obtain their full potential.

We are an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer that understands the value of diversity and its impact on a high performance culture.

What is BASF? BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Our portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics and performance products to agricultural products, fine chemicals as well as oil and gas. As a reliable partner BASF helps its customers in virtually all industries to be more successful. With its high-value products and intelligent solutions, BASF plays an important role in finding high-value products and intelligent solutions, BASF plays an important role in finding answers to global challenges such as climate protections, energy efficiency, nutrition and mobility. BASF posted sales of more than 62 billion euros in 2008 and had approximately 97,000 employees as of the end of the year.

What Makes BASF a Cool Company? BASF is dedicated to forming the best team in the industry. The 2020 Strategy is dedicated to attracting and retaining the right people. The strategy states: build a talented and diverse workforce with the right people in the right roles to drive future growth through entrepreneurial, collaborative and customer-focused behavior.

Points of Note: BASF serves leading customers in many industries including packaging, construction, automotive, plastics, personal care, pharmaceutical industry and detergents, cleaners and formulators.

BASF has been recognized for many activities. A couple of highlights include: Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility and recognized in Fortune as one of the World's Most Admired Companies.

What is Belly Bandit? Belly Bandit, an international clothing company headquartered in Los Angeles, has revolutionized the post-partum world of abdominal compression, helping women world-wide recover their fantastic pre-pregnancy shape.

What Makes Belly Bandit a 'Cool Company'? Belly Bandit is an up and coming company that has both east and west coast offices. With a younger generation mentality where everyone counts and it's the sum of the pieces that make a company whole there is plenty of room to grow with us!

Points of Note: Launched in 2008, Belly Bandit is already in over 35 countries and 500+ stores/boutiques/hospitals and other outlets. We've launched four other products since that time!

What is Brilliance Audio? Brilliance Audio, Inc, is the largest independent audiobook publisher in the United States. The company, founded by its current President and Publisher R. Michael Snodgrass in 1984, began with a mission to provide a quality listening experience at an affordable price, and continues that philosophy today.

From the early days of splicing tape to the current digital age, Brilliance Audio has always been at the forefront of recording and engineering spoken-word audio. Its headquarters, based in Grand Haven, Michigan, boasts digital recording studios specially designed and built for spoken word production. Staff directors, engineers and abridgers, working with a very experienced and talented team of freelancers, ensure high-quality production.

What Makes Brilliance Audio a Cool Company? Today, Brilliance Audio, Inc. maintains its commitment to providing the highest-quality listening experience for the best value. The company continues to earn its reputation for the best publishing program in the industry, the highest production standards, and the greatest value for consumers. Its team is highly skilled, nationally known, and committed to providing the best audiobook product available anywhere.

What is Charter? Charter Communications, Inc. is a Fortune 500 company and the fourth-largest cable operator in the United States. Charter provides advanced video, high-speed Internet, and telephone services to approximately 5.5 million residential and business customers in 27 states.

What Makes Charter a Cool Company? At the core of our mission is to provide value to our customers. We strive to do this every day by offering high-quality entertainment and communication services and continually improving customer care through the commitment of our more than 16,000 employees nationwide.

What is Cleary University? Cleary University, founded in 1883, is an independent, not-for-profit, multi-campus, specialized business university, committed to the betterment of society through the success of its alumni and their employers; to operate as a role model of responsible business practice; to embrace quality management principles, innovation and an attentive customer focus; and to aspire to a better future.

What Makes Cleary a Cool Company? Cleary's mission is to provide a practical, application-based education. Cleary offers traditional day and evening courses as well as online programs and accelerated degrees. Books and fees are included in the cost of tuition- a rate that is guaranteed not to increase as long as a student remains continuously enrolled in a Cleary degree program.

Points of Note: In 2009, Tom Sullivan celebrated his 20 year anniversary as president of Cleary University (the average tenure of private college presidents is 8.5 years according to the American College President.

Cleary has been ranked in the top 20 specialty colleges by U.S. News & World Report

What is Compatico? Compatico Inc’s mission is to deliver reliable and cost effective products with the best customer service in the industry. As a manufacturer, assembler and supplier of new office furniture systemsand office furniture system parts to each of its markets served.

What Makes Compatico a Cool Company? Compatico does more then just sell quality office furniture systems and parts at economical prices. Its associates are committed to provide "customer first service". Customer service is a part of every Compatico department from accounting to operations, from sales to transportation.

What is Crain's Detroit Business?  Crain's is one of the largest privately-owned business publishers in the U.S. with over 30 leading business, trade and consumer titles in North America and Europe. As an authoritative source of vital news and information to industry leaders and consumers worldwide, each of the company's newspapers, magazines and electronic news sites have become required reading in their respective sector of business and consumer market. Providing unmatched value and award-winning editorial excellence, the company is respected for its dependable journalism which readers have relied upon for over 90 years.

What Makes Crain's a Cool Company? Crain Communications offers a competitive salary, a generous benefits package, profit sharing, and a friendly work environment. This is a great time to join our organization -- a profitable, well established publishing leader.

What Makes the Detroit Zoo a Cool Company? The Detroit Zoo's mission is to Demonstrate leadership in wildlife conservation and animal welfare. Provide a broad audience with outstanding and unique educational opportunities that lead to the appreciation and stewardship of nature. Inspire our community with engaging, meaningful and memorable experiences. Provide innovative zoological facilities that contribute to the region's economic vitality.

What Makes Dominos a Cool Company? Domino’s Pizza people are essentially all the same. We live for the thrill of being “Fast and Nice,” a phrase coined by our Chairman and CEO, Dave Brandon, in 2005. Imagine working with dedicated team members in more than 60 markets around the world, making and delivering delicious meals to families one million times a day!

We are the recognized world leader in pizza delivery, and we’re darn proud of it! Some people even say we have pizza sauce running through our veins.

Some companies tend to think ‘work’ is the antithesis of ‘fun’. Not Domino’s Pizza. Our motto is “Sell More Pizza, Have More Fun,” for goodness sake! We all make and sell pizza for a living... what’s more fun than that? This is our culture. We expect a lot from our team members and our team members deliver! In appreciation, we try to create an atmosphere that’s fun as well as productive.

What Makes Dow a  Cool Company? With annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at http://www.dow.com/

What is DP+Company? DP+Company, connects brands with their customers. We start by uncovering unique insights that drive your targets’ purchase decisions. Then, we turn a bunch of really smart, talented people loose to come up with creative solutions that make your brand the hero.

We have a multi-colored, complicated chart that illustrates all the steps involved — but in reality, it’s pretty simple.

What Makes DP+Company a Cool Company? Employees at DP will have the chance to work on a variety of accounts- we don't limit you to just one. Your ideas are heard and you'll get to spend your days with really great people.... did we mention we have a fully stocked kitchen at all times?

What is DRS Technologies? DRS Technologies, A Finmeccanica Company, provides leading edge products and services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Focused on defense electronics, we develop and manufacture a broad range of mission critical systems and components in the areas of communications, combat systems, battlefield digitization, electro-optics, power systems, data storage, digital imaging, flight safety and space. Headquartered in Parsippany, NJ, the company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Finmeccanica S.p.A. which employs more than 70,000 people worldwide. We offer a competitive compensation package and a business culture which rewards performance.

What Makes Entertainment a Cool Company? Headquartered in Troy, Michigan for over 46 years, our Midwestern roots are evident in our company vision: to become the most loved discounts and promotions company in the world.  From our local employees at HQ to our field employees in over 150 U.S. and Canadian markets, you will find a team of people who are deeply passionate about our business and our partners – our merchants, our fundraising groups, and the consumers who purchase our products.  We are dedicated to providing best-in-class offers to consumers anytime, anyway, and anywhere they want them!

Our core product is the iconic Entertainment © coupon book, bulging from cover-to-cover with discounts from local and national retailers – and registering the card in the front increases savings opportunities exponentially, giving access to the new merchant offers signed by our sales team daily.

What is Environ? An international consultancy, ENVIRON works with clients to help resolve their most demanding environmental and human health issues. We combine resources across geographic boundaries and technical and scientific disciplines to provide clients with the best, most responsive team—whether responding to existing challenges, evaluating opportunities to improve performance, or seeking to reduce future liabilities. Clients around the world benefit from our unique ability to bring clarity to issues at the intersection of science, business and policy.

What Makes Environ a Cool Company? The entrepreneurial spark that defined ENVIRON's beginnings remains evident in each innovative, forward-thinking solution we deliver. Advances in science and technology and evolving regulatory, legal, and social pressures create increasingly complex challenges for businesses. We evolve to keep pace with these changes—by adding new services, contributing to scientific advances, or expanding geographically—all with an eye to supporting our clients' changing needs.

What is Esperion? Esperion Technologies, Inc. discovers and develops therapies to prevent, trreat and reverrse cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Esperion is committed to understanding and applying basic science, discovering its therapeutic applications to treat human disease, and making a difference in patients' lives. Esperion is a venture-funded company.

What Makes Esperion a Cool Company? Esperion has a track record of success, targeted for unmet medical needs, unparalleled expertise and perspective and speed and agility.

What is Everest Academy? Founded in 1991, Everest is a private, independent Catholic School offering co-ed education for preschool through grade 2, and gender-specific education for grades 3 to high school. Everest offers your child a seamless path of education from preschool through high school on one campus. We are located on a spacious 90-acre campus in Clarkston, Michigan.

What Makes Everest a Cool Company? The passion of the employees and dedication to the students and education that Everest provides.

What is Foresee Results: ForeSee Results is the leader in online customer satisfaction management. The company was founded in 2001 to bring the scientific and proven methodology of the University of Michigan's American Customer Satisfaction Index to the web. For hundreds of clients across the private and public sectors, ForeSee Results captures and analyzes online voice of customer data to help clients increase sales, loyalty, recommendations and website value.

What Makes Foresee a Cool Company? ForeSee Results' cross- industry experience spans retail, telecommunications, financial services, government, consumer products, travel, business to business, health care, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing associations and non-profits. With 30 million voice of customer responses collected to date and 550 website measurements in place Foresee is a leader. The in house team of research analysts, usability, audit specialists, implementation specialists and technical experts work together toward a common goal: our clients' satisfaction and success.

What is General Dynamics Land Systems? General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,900 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com

What is Gentex? Gentex develops advanced electro-optical products - electronic devices combining photoelectric sensors and related electronic circuitry. We're the world's leading supplier of electrochromic, automatic-dimming rearview mirrors for the automotive industry, and develop advanced smoke detectors and signaling devices for the commercial fire-protection market.

What Makes Gentex a Cool Company? Gentex is a company with a true entrepreneurial spirit, embracing innovation, cooperation and continuous improvement. We work hard to foster a climate that is hierarchy-free and devoid of bureaucracy so that everyone feels empowered to contribute to the organization's success. The work environment is professional yet casual; an eclectic mix of engineers, assembly workers, technicians, and international offices that together comprise the Gentex team.

What Makes Google a Cool Company? Google is not a conventional company, and we don’t intend to become one. True, we share attributes with the world’s most successful organizations – a focus on innovation and smart business practices comes to mind – but even as we continue to grow, we’re committed to retaining a small-company feel. At Google, we know that every employee has something important to say, and that every employee is integral to our success. We provide individually-tailored compensation packages that can be comprised of competitive salary, bonus, and equity components, along with the opportunity to earn further financial bonuses and rewards.

Google has offices around the globe, from Bangalore to Zurich, but regardless of where we are, we nurture an invigorating, positive environment by hiring talented, local people who share our commitment to creating search perfection and want to have a great time doing it. Googlers thrive in small, focused teams and high-energy environments, believe in the ability of technology to change the world, and are as passionate about their lives as they are about their work.

What is Gordon Food Service? Gordon Food Service is North America's largest family-owned broadline foodservice distributor. Our company mission is centered around our customers. We dedicate ourselves to providing quality products and solutions to help drive our customers' success.

What Makes Gordon Food Service a Cool Company? We're a company with integrity at its core. We believe in treating each other with respect and working as a team to get things done right. And because of this collaboration, we've created an atmosphere that's fun, supportive, and alive with energy.

It's this unique culture that helps attract so many talented, ambitious people to our company. They see a long and prosperous future for themselves - the same future we may have in store for you.

What is Haworth?  Adaptable, sustainable and ergonomic office furniture and solutions. This is a world leader in the industry.

What Makes Haworth a Cool Company? Haworth adheres to a set of values that include valuing customers, its members, integrity, continuous learning, results and the world. They are also focused on sustainability and offer a sustainable product and workplace design, green transportation, green building and sustainable sites.

Points of Note:
Best of  NeoCon Gold, Files & Storage- NC-B Resonate
Best of NeoCon Gold, Seating, Stacking- Very
Best of NeoCon Silver, Congerence Seating- Very
Best of NeoCon Large Showroom, IIDA- Chicago Showroom
Deals of the Year Finalist, Sustainability Category
Environmental Design Award, Contract Magazine
Gold Industrial Design Excellence Award
People's Choice Award, Lifecycle Building Challenge

What Makes Hemlock a Cool Company? 

When you join Hemlock Semiconductor Group, you will be part of a team of employees who work together, pooling their ideas and experiences. This group of dedicated individuals makes us what we are — a leading supplier of polysilicon to the semiconductor and solar industries.

As a member of the Hemlock Semiconductor team, you will receive:

• An employee-focused safety program that has yielded world-class results
• A highly competitive compensation and benefits package
• Flexibility for career development, community involvement, and personal growth

What is Henry Ford Academy: School for Creative Studies? HFA: SCS, a combined middle & high school, is being built on a solid foundation of experience. It's a partnership led by Henry Ford Learning Institute (HFLI), a non-profit organization dedicated to creating public schools in public spaces, and Detroit's College for Creative Studies (CCS), a world leader in art and design education.

What Makes Henry Ford Academy Cool? The world is in need of critical thinkers and problem solvers, people who can produce new ideas and come up with new solutions. Creative thinkers need a creative education, where learning is hands-on and takes place in studios, not through lectures in front of chalkboards. CCS has been developing creative thinkers for over 100 years. Advertising Designers. Comic Book Illustrators. Video Game Designers. Fashion Photographers. Animators. Product Designers. Graduates of CCS become leading professionals in art and design and meet the growing demand for creative and innovative thinkers.

What is Henry Ford West Bloomfield? The new 300-bed Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital in the heart of Oakland County provides patients with the highest quality, safest care available in a setting that enlivens their senses and fulfills their expressed and unexpressed wishes and needs.

More than 500 primary care and specialty physicians on staff provide world-class health care in an all private room facility featuring several amenities and the most advanced technology available in health care today.

What is HoMedics? HoMedics offers an extensive assortment of personal wellness products that are created to help you restore the balance to your life. With our products, it's easy to be proactive in the maintenance of your health and well-being.

What Makes HoMedics a Cool Company? Since HoMedics was founded in 1987, we've become the #1 name in health and wellness.

Our extensive line of personal wellness products allow you to relax your body, renew your spirit and simplify your life. As the innovative leader in self-care, wellness and personal health products, we continue to strive to provide you with products that promote your well-being.

What is IGI? A division of Immersion Graphics Inc., IGI is solely focused on the design, installation and servicing of large scale, high resolution visualization systems. Since 1998, we have installed systems for major automobile manufacturers, medical and financial institutions, the United States military and other government agencies. Markets we serve include industrial design and engineering visualization, command & control room environments and 4K digital feature film production and post production.

What is Johnson Controls? Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) is a global leader in automotive experience, building efficiency and power solutions.

The company provides innovative automotive interiors that help make driving more comfortable, safe and enjoyable. For buildings, it offers products and services that optimize energy use and improve comfort and security. Johnson Controls also provides batteries for automobiles and hybrid-electric vehicles, along with systems engineering and service expertise.

Johnson Controls has 140,000 employees in more than 1,300 locations serving customers in 125 countries. Founded in 1885, the company has its headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

What Makes JCI a Cool Company? Johnson Controls is a world-class employer where ingenuity and excellence are welcome.
 
As a diversified, industrial growth company, we have achieved increased sales for 61 consecutive years. And we do everything possible to value, challenge and reward our employees.

Our people enjoy working for a successful company that offers leadership development from within, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, competitive salaries and benefits – and more. At Johnson Controls, you’ll be challenged to innovate and encouraged to apply your talent and knowledge. And you will be well-rewarded for delivering results.

What Makes Karlsberger a Cool Company? KHC helps clients define their vision, outline performance criteria, establish targets, and create an action plan for improved operational performance.

At the strategic level, we work with organization leadership to evaluate the alignment of the entire organization, identify opportunities to balance the operational model and discuss strategies that drive brand positioning – community perceptions, physician attraction, and staff recruitment and retention.

At a department or service level, we help clinical leadership identify ‘gaps’ within their current operations that impact efficiency, satisfaction, and financial performance.

Our exploration and solutions are based on current best practices within the industry - and beyond, where appropriate - and are balanced to address our clients’ unique culture, context and community expectations.

What is Kendall College of Art and Design? As a college within Ferris State University, Kendall College of Art and Design prepares students for leadership in the visual arts, design, art history, and art education; provides innovative, collaborative education that fosters intellectual growth and individual creativity; and promotes the ethical and civic responsibilities of artists and designers, locally and globally.

What Makes Kendall a Cool School? Our faculty members are regionally and nationally known artists in their own right who share their experience freely in the studio and beyond. Our professors know their students by name and are invested in their success. Our facilities provide well-resourced studios, classrooms, labs, workshops, and exhibition spaces. And our technology is directly aligned with the systems and software used in the professional world. With 1,352 students and 163 faculty (as of fall 2008), we offer a culture that’s intimate, supportive, and collaborative.

What is LEPFA: Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority serves as a catalyst to enhance both local and regional economic growth by providing professional management of Lansing Center, voted a 2009 Best Of by Michigan Meetings and Events Magazine; Oldsmobile Park, home of the Lansing Lugnuts; and Lansing City Market, celebrating 100 years of service to Lansing. LEPFA is a primary sponsor of the Common Ground Music Festival, mid-Michigan's largest music festival.

What Makes LEPFA a 'Cool Company'? LEPFA is the center of Lansing entertainment. We like to say we are the 'movers, shakers and event makers' of the town. If it's a major event, it was probably created by LEPFA. Our most notable event is Common Ground Music Festival, which draws more than 80,000 fans annually.

Points of Note: Lansing Center: 2009's Best Meeting and Event Venue outside of Detroit award.

What is the Lifton Institute for Media Skills? The Lifton Institute for Media Skills started with a simple idea: create meaningful jobs in the film and television trades. We accomplish this by providing skilled and unskilled out-of-work labor and students the guidance of experienced instructors. We then provide extensive hands-on experience using the same tools, stages and timeframes as the profession they are studying. It is an educational philosophy that reaches across all of our programs.

As a student at LIMS, know that your advancement is of primary importance. LIMS has developed a truly unique educational approach. There are many institutions that “teach film.” However, there is no other school that offers an in-depth education in those vital skill areas known in the industry as “below-the-line.”

What is Lowry? Lowry Computer Products is a well established national manufacturer and systems integrator providing companies with wireless, RFID-EPC, bar code and data collection solutions.

What Makes Lowry a Cool Company? Lowry Computer Products offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, FSA, paid holidays and vacations and a 401(k) plan.​

What is McKesson? McKesson is dedicated to delivering the vital medicines, supplies and information technologies that enable the health care industry to provide patients better, safer care.

We are the largest pharmaceutical distributor in North America, distributing one-third of the medicines used every day. We supply more than 40,000 U.S. pharmacy locations, from Wal-Mart to the Department of Veterans Affairs to community pharmacies and hospitals.

We develop and install health care information technology systems that eliminate the need for paper prescriptions and paper medical records. Our software and hardware are used in more than 70% of the nation's hospitals with more than 200 beds.

What is Media Genesis? As a leading Internet Services firm headquarted in the Midwest, Media Genesis, Inc. services clients worldwide and around the Great Lakes. In-house designers, programmers, and analysists provide a wide range of services including web development, e-learning, SEO, application development, intranet software, and content management systems.

What is Medical Advantage Group? Medical Advantage Group (MAG) is a healthcare consulting company that helps physician organizations and group practices improve the care they provide for over 600,000 Michigan citizens. We have been in business since 1996 and we are affiliated with the Michigan State Medical Society.

What Makes Medical Advantage Group a Cool Company to Work for? Medical Advantage Group offers a competitive compensation and benefits package along with a strong growth-oriented work environment.

What is Molded Materials? We are a leading provider of  custom engineered solutions for material handling applications. And we've been doing it for more than 30 years.

What Makes Molded Materials a Cool Company? Headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, Molded Materials, Inc. is a recognized leader in providing custom engineered solutions for material handling, assembly and manufacturing applications. MMI designs and manufactures a wide array of thermoplastic and thermoset products for automotive dunnage, process automation and proprietary applications. The company maintains state-of-the-art engineering, tool making and manufacturing facilities and we have developed unique expertise in the conception, design and manufacture of thermoplastic and thermoset products that improve the material handling process.

What is Morley?  Since 1863, we have earned a reputation for providing exceptional service to our clients while acting as a leader in our community. Our unique service culture continues to draw people to become part of the Morley family of associates and carry on the work of our founders, who described Morley as “The hand of service in the mitt of Michigan, where every transaction is wrapped in the fine paper of dignity and tied with the stout cord of integrity.”

Morley provides service products from six categories that are designed to work on a stand-alone basis or in concert with one another. Each product provides unique benefits for our clients by combining our legendary customer care with an exceptional attention to detail – a combination that we are extremely proud to offer.

What Makes Morley a Cool Company? Morley is known for its legendary customer care, its exceptional attention to detail and the great camaraderie of its associates. Together, these qualities provide a dynamic, fast-paced work environment designed to serve the world's largest and most prestigious enterprises.

What is MyBuys? MyBuys provides e-commerce solutions to some of the top national brands. MyBuys prides itself on having its fingers on the pulse of internet marketing and more and has been a major player in increasing traffic and retention for many of the best known companies around.

What Makes MyBuys a Cool Compay? Their clients include such favorites as: Wine Buys, Delia's, Lancome, Kitchen Aid and many more. The leadership team is made up of experienced talent from some of the best names in the industry. Headquartered in Redwood City, CA, MyBuys also employees a number of people in its Ann Arbor, MI location. Get in and be a part of this exciting company that is growing rapidly right here in Michigan!

What is NeoGen? Founded in 1982, Neogen Corporation has grown to more than 400 employees in multiple U.S. and international locations, and a worldwide presence. Neogen develops, manufactures and markets a diverse line of products dedicated to food and animal safety.

What Makes NeoGen a Cool Company?

Neogen Corporation is a leader in developing and marketing test kits that provide food safety solutions. Our products are simple and accurate, and are supported by our highly-skilled staff.

Neogen products are unsurpassed in terms of ease of use, convenience and speed. Our formats make testing simple. The tests are specifically designed to minimize user time and maximize convenience.

Points of Note:
July 21, 2009- Neogen reports 16% increase in revenues
July 9, 2009-Neogen named to Fortune’s list of fastest growing companies
June 18, 2009-Neogen named to Fortune’s list of 40 stocks ‘to retire on’

What is Niche Retail? Niche Retail partners with premium brands to design, build, and operate D2C and B2B online sales channels. We back each partnership with warehousing and distribution support using a superior level of efficiency and fiscal simplicity. With no capital investment on your part, we increase sales, improve margin, and elevate your brand.

As a partner, you gain access to an inner circle of experts with years of eCommerce website experience. Using your guidelines, we assemble every aspect of your eCommerce platform, giving you everything needed to take your brand to the next level.

What Makes Niche Retail a Cool Company? Thanks to the work of a driven team of the best and brightest, Niche Retail has revolutionized the eCommerce landscape by making relationships between partners and customers the core of our business. We are a privately held company with a unique approach to website and distribution solutions. We've built a crack team of experts whose goals are to elevate your brand, increase sales, and improve margin.

Visit Niche and meet the wizards behind the curtain. Be prepared for a friendly welcome and a casual atmosphere, and leave impressed with our passion for excellence. Woven into everything we do is an appreciation and dedication to the environment. We make sustainability a core value because grass is as green as money.

What is Nuspire: Nuspire is a state-of-the-science managed network security service provider with more than a decade of industry experience providing services for some of the largest and most distinctive companies in the world.

Nuspire provides a comprehensive suite of services focused to meet the needs of organizations with a geographically diverse footprint.

What Makes Nuspire a Cool Company? Over the last 10 years Nuspire has been blessed with sustainable growth; and has had fun doing it! Employees work long, hard hours but take time to have fun.

Team building events include Nuspire Olympics, Nuspire Madness (a basketball/trivia tournament), Xbox gaming tournaments, free haircuts at the office and annual company trips to Mackinac Island. We even celebrate the moon landing every year in the Network Operations Center.

Awards/Accolades:
Inc. 500-5000 Fastest Growing Companies
Nuspire Networks: Hoops for the Troops- Detroit News and Information- Crain's Detroit Business
WWJ Newsradio 950- Nuspire Networks Can't Hire Fast Enough
Nuspire Networks Becomes MSPAlliance Member
Crain's Detroit Business 2007 Cool Places to Work
Nuspire Receives QSA Certification

Key Clients:
General Motors
Subaru
InkStop Inc.
 

What is Olympia Entertainment? Olympia Entertainment is among the industry's most diverse sports and entertainment companies. Olympia operates Detroit's Fox Theatre, Cobo Arena and Joe Louis Arena - home of the 2008 Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings.

Other operations include the City Theatre, Masonic Temple, and various restaurant and retail establishments, including Hockeytown Cafe. Olympia Entertainment is also a promoter and producer of major live events, including concerts and Broadway shows. Affiliated companies include the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and Little Caesar Enterprises.

What is One of Us? One of Us Films produces reality-based programming and fiction films with a focus on engaging the audience in the story. From historic narratives and intimate interviews to cinema-style training, our quality productions create a lasting impression.

What Makes One of Us Cool? One of Us Films was founded as a non-profit organization in 1995 to produce the fictional film, One of Us.  The intent of the film was to raise awareness about acquaintance rape.  Since then, One of Us Films has remained committed to supporting efforts to eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault.

Our mission has expanded to creating content with a conscience, and includes developing and mentoring emerging talent.

In addition to internship opportunities, we proudly host the annual event, Lunafest: films by, for, about women.  In 2009, One of Us Films sponsored a team for the 48 Hour Film Festival, introducing many new actors to production and providing an opportunity for young talent to spread their wings.

What Makes OneUpWeb a Cool Company? The minute you take your eyes off the digital prize, some start-up, some new technology, some kid in a garage will rise up to snatch your customers and eat into your market share.

Optimization is our strategy. And we’re not just talking about optimizing websites—that’s only step one. Today you need to optimize every digital communication, every channel and every online conversation.

Here’s the nitty-gritty:

Consumers are already digitally experiencing your brand—from websites and blogs to search engines and social networking sites to product reviews and RSS feeds and more. If you’re not managing and participating in these experiences, you’re not profiting from them.

Oneupweb helps brands grow their digital presence.

We optimize each opportunity and integrate an ROI-focused action plan across new media platforms through the strategic application of natural search engine optimization, paid search marketing, analytics and online media placement.

What is OpenMarket? OpenMarket is the largest and most reliable mobile transaction hub in the United States. We provide a comprehensive set of messaging, payment and emerging services to meet mobile business needs. From the largest consumer brands to the smallest new ventures, OpenMarket empowers businesses to optimize their marketing initiatives and strengthen customer relationships by leveraging the off-portal mobile channel. OpenMarket provides the most direct mobile operator connections in the U.S. market today. OpenMarket is a business of Amdocs.

What Makes OpenMarket a Cool Company? At OpenMarket, we offer challenging projects with a collaborative and approachable environment. We understand that our success results from our diverse and dynamic workforce. It is the same people who compose our invaluable culture. Our OMIe‘s (OpenMarket Employees) created the Core Values of OpenMarket: FEISTy – Fun, Empowerment, Integrity, Drive for Success, Teamwork and you. Also important to our culture: smart, fun people who value work-life balance, have an incredible work ethic and respect for those they work with. Does this sound like you?

What is Perrigo? Perrigo is a leader in the Store Brand OTC/Nutrition and Generic Rx Topicals markets with unsurpassed quality and customer service with over $2 billion in annual sales. Perrigo is a global, integrated healthcare products company with facilities in the United States, Israel, India, China, Mexico and the UK employing over 6,000 people world wide.

What Makes Perrigo a Cool Company? From baton twirling to Spock impressions, Perrigo is a company that appreciates unique talent as seen in our newest YouTube video "Perrigo Talent Show." Perrigo offers these talented employees unique quality of life focused benefits that include: flexible work schedules, Fit for Life program, sense of social responsibility and community involvement, tuition reimbursement, on-site training and even a medical clinic.

Points of Note:

• Best of the Best Award from West Michigan's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For (2009)
• World's largest manufacturer of OTC pharmaceuticals
• Produces more than 44 billion tablets annually- more than any other company
• More people use Perrigo products than any other pharmaceutical company
• Largest U.S. producer of liquid antacid and the second largest U.S. producer of Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen
• Over the last 15 years, consumers have saved more than $10 billion by purchasing Perrigo products over the name brand
• Best in class innovation- developing, filing and partnering to be first-to-market
• Greater product breadth than any other company, including branded companies
• Participated in 80% of the drugs that have switched from Rx to OTC since 1976
• More OTC ANDA approvals (61) than any other company, including branded companies.

Check Out:

www.facebook.com/perrigocompany
www.twitter.com/perrigocompany

What Makes Phire Branding a Cool Company? The fastest shift in marketing history is underway. With the soul of a creative agency, the mind of a strategic firm, and the tools of an interactive firm, Phire Branding Company employs Connection Marketing™ to help companies traverse the seismic shift from mass media to one-on-one, customer-centric, knowledge-based, movement-driven brands. Using your customers as our guide, we help re-create brands to reflect their desires and apply tools to help them fall head over heels with everything for which you stand. Measuring everything along the way.

What is Plex Systems? The technology and manufacturing industry expertise that serves as the foundation of Plex Online was originally developed as part of an internal project at a automotive parts manufacturer. Plex Systems was formed as an independent company in 1995, and our flagship Plex Online software was launched in 2001. Today, Plex Systems is a leading provider of on-demand software for manufacturing enterprises in several industries, with thousands of users at hundreds of plants around the world.

What Makes Plex a Cool Company? At Plex, we value and reward a person's knowledge, skills, achievement and contribution. The Plex team is made up of industry leaders with a range of capabilities and experience, including manufacturing, engineering, software development, computer science, sales/marketing and network administration. In all cases, we look for deeply motivated, committed and talented professionals.

Points of Note: Detroit Free Press 2009 Top Workplaces, Metro Detroit 101 Best Places to Work

What Makes Priority Health a Cool Company? At Priority Health, you'll be part of a dynamic company that's ranked the #1 health plan in Michigan and among the top 5 % in the nation (U.S. News & World Report, Nov. 8, 2007). We're dedicated to improving people's health with access to excellent, affordable care and making everything about health benefits easier. We count on our employees to help us achieve our vision to be the nation's best.

Our culture welcomes and embraces new ideas, and we champion values and diversity. If you're a problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced team environment, consider Priority Health for your next career move. We hire, develop, promote and reward people who are passionate about being the best.

What is Pulse Architecture + Design? Pulse is a newly formed venture in the local Metro Detroit area featuring services such as design and architectural imaging including: digital illustrations, 3D modeling and presentation packages.

Our goal is to bring you a 'fresh perspective' for your architectural design and visualization needs. Collaborating with others is a must in this creative field and that is just how things are done sucessfully. We look forward to working with you and helping you 'move your design forward.'

What Makes Pulse a Cool Company? Being able to understand the design and visualization challenge at hand is what makes Pulse different. Pulse is a term that is dynamic and describes progress. It is the heartbeat for moving design forward.

Points of Note: Pulse Architecture + Design clients include: architects, interior designers, kitchen designers, landscape architects, developers and more.

Projects include: Commercial Renderings, Residential Renderings, Interior Renderings, Site Plans, Floor Plans, Graphic Design, Logos/Branding and brocures.

Professional Affiliations include: AIA Detroit, AIA National, ASAI, National Artist Guild, LTU Alumni and  LTU Imaging Alumni, 313 Digital, Detroit Young Professionals and Fusion: Detroit.

Search and connect with Pulse on: Facebook, LinkedIn, BlogSpot

What is Pure Visibility? Pure Visibility is known for its committment to finding clients new customers through online strategies.

What Makes Pure Visibility a Cool Company? Based in Ann Arbor and started by Linda Girard and Catherine Juon Pure Visibility has won countless accolades including Linda being honored as one of the "Top 10 Women in Business" by the National Association of Women Business Owners.

Pure Visibility sets itself apart with its results driven search engine marketing plans and unique clients.

They are a growing organization that offers an array of services including: Pay Per Click, Search Engine Optimization and much more.

What is Quantum Ventures of Michigan? Quantum Ventures of Michigan, LLC (“Quantum”) is a corporate development firm and investor focusing on middle market companies in North America. Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan, Quantum considers opportunities across a broad set of industries, but has particular interest in industrial parts manufacturing, distribution, industrial equipment manufacturing and rental, and interactive services. We believe in a patient investment approach and proactively partner with management teams in order to generate economic returns.

What Makes Quantum Ventures a Cool Company?

We believe Quantum is differentiated from other corporate development firms by our unique approach to middle market investing, which is founded on the backgrounds and experiences of the Quantum team. At Quantum, we have carefully assembled a team with a blend of strategic, operational, and financial expertise that is seldomly found in an investment group focused on middle market companies. Our team of investment professionals has served as CEOs, CFOs, COOs, and senior legal advisors to public and private companies with revenues ranging from $5 million to over $1 billion. As a result, we have a proven track record of acquiring, operating, growing, and harvesting middle market businesses.

At Quantum, we recognize that real, enduring value is created through managerial vision and operational execution, not through financial engineering or multiple expansion. As a result, we proactively seek opportunities in which our team’s expertise can be combined with existing management talent to drive company performance.

What is Radley Corporation? Radley Corporation develops, installs and supports EDI, automated data collection and supplier collaboration software solutions aimed at improving process efficiency for businesses around the globe. Radley's web-enabled EDI, Automotive EDI, Hosted EDI, supply chain management, and bar code, RFID, automated data collection products are integrated into many widely used ERP/MRP applications.

What Makes Radley a Cool Company? For over 30 years, Radley Corporation has enabled manufacturers of all sizes to productively manage their enterprise data.  Through the development, distribution, and continued support of innovative, fully-integrated, business-to-business EDI and automated data collection solutions, Radley Corporation continues to address today’s critical business needs across a wide range of industries.   

What is Rainbow Rehab? Rainbow Rehabilitation Centers is a real-world, community-based, cost-effective community of caring providers and rehabilitation specialists. We provide transitional rehabilitation as well as long-term residential programs for adults with brain or spinal cord injuries, and children or adolescents with brain injuries. We believe in utilizing community resources whenever possible. Each individual we serve is provided with a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet his or her unique needs. Rainbow is committed to responding to advancements and technology changes within the industry. We will always strive to balance the needs of our clients and their financial resources in an effort to maximize their recovery.

What is Rovi Corporation? This leader in digital entertainment prides itself on connecting people with technology and revolutionizing the digital media world.

What Makes Rovi a Cool Company? With locations throughout the world, this exciting company is making its mark on the industry.

According to the Rovi Corp website the company currently has:

• Approximately 104 million subscribers and 75 million CE devices worldwide use our guidance technology
• Our content protection technology is on approximately 9 billion discs and VHS cassettes
• More than 500 million devices are enabled with our protection technology
• We have active advertising rights in place with approximately 100 million guides worldwide
• We have a vast and unique catalog of entertainment metadata for TV, movies, music and games that includes:
  • More than 1 million TV Series episodes since 1954
  • More than 1.5 million Pop and Classical music albums and 17 million tracks
  • More than 400,000 movie titles

Be a part of entertainment history today!

What Makes Secrest & Wardle a Cool Company? Secrest Wardle specializes in defense litigation and counsel for insurance, municipal, and commercial clients. Established nearly a century ago with a single office in Detroit, Secrest Wardle has grown considerably over the years through a commitment to providing the best legal expertise available. Building on a strong foundation in the insurance defense arena, we are now one of the largest firms in the Great Lakes area, offering excellent legal services in a broad range of fields.

What is Secure-24? Secure-24 provides managed hosting of enterprise level, business critical applications for large enterprise and middle-market companies. A deep knowledge of ERP systems and complex architectures combined with state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure allow Secure-24 to deliver solutions that are highly available, scalable to accommodate evolving business needs, and meet the security requirements of today's demanding regulatory environment.

What Makes Secure-24 a Cool Company? A career at Secure-24 is unlike any other. We're a culture that encourages you to move around within the organization, experiencing all you can along the way.

It all begins by exploring everything Secure-24 has to offer. We provide you the ability to steer your career in the direction of your strengthened goals.

Secure-24 is in the business of making big ideas happen. As a premiere provider of hosting services and disaster recovery, our success depends on innovative thinking.

Points of Note: Inc. 500

What Makes SimuQuest a Cool Company? SimuQuest is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The company employs highly talented engineers with overlapping experience in the following areas:

• Traditional hand-code software development for embedded systems.
• Model-based software development for embedded systems.
• Advanced control system design and plant modeling.

Before SimuQuest was created in 2001, team members had prior experience through the mid and late 90’s in transitioning from embedded software development based on traditional hand-coding to development using a model-based approach. Over the years, the model-based process was refined and the many benefits of a model-based approach became clear. This background combined with complimentary experience in systems engineering, systems modeling and advanced control system design provided the impetus to create a consulting company that would provide an optimal solution for embedded control systems and software development. Thus SimuQuest was born!

Since its founding, SimuQuest has been dedicated to the continuous refinement of an agile model-based development process for embedded systems, based on the Mathworks tool platform.

In applying this process with a number of customers, and in solving their embedded development problems, SimuQuest identified the need for third party products for Simulink, that facilitate an optimal model-based process in terms of productivity and quality.

What is Softura? Softura is a custom software development company headquartered in Novi with locations throughout the world.

What Makes Softura a Cool Company? We offer full circle custom software programming services, from simple web application and offshore software development to outsourcing support and application enhancement.

Softura employs a large pool of software development talent, both locally and offshore coming from a multitude of different backgrounds and expertise.

For over 10 years we have worked with hundreds of top-notch companies in the application development space to develop successful applications that are rock solid and cutting edge.

What is Spalding DeDecker? Established in 1954, Spalding DeDecker Associates, Inc. (SDA) is an employee-owned civil engineering firm specializing in infrastructure, land development and surveying, with offices in Brighton, Detroit, Rochester Hills and Trenton, Michigan. SDA offers a full range of design and engineering services for municipal, land development, transportation and water/wastewater projects as well as complete construction engineering and land surveying & mapping services.

What Makes Spalding DeDecker a Cool Company?

Spalding DeDecker Associates, Inc., was selected by the Michigan Business and Professional Organization as one of the Metropolitan Detroit's 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For - three years in a row.

What makes SDA different? SDA is owned entirely (100%) by our employees through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). At most companies, your hard work rewards the company and its owner (A.K.A. "The Man"). In as little as one year at SDA, our employees begin to have an ownership interest in our company. Each person's stake in the company continues to grow in relation to compensation level and longevity. Every employee owner has a stake in our success, so, every individual effort helps build our successful company. This in turn rewards you - an owner. Our culture of "ownership pride" is what sets SDA as the benchmark of success.

Because of our employee ownership culture, we work hard to be successful. We also celebrate our success by making sure SDA is a great place to work. Beyond a compensation package with benefits that are among the best in the industry, we invest in our employees through ongoing training for professional and personal growth. We also celebrate by having fun! We have monthly barbeques or lunches, a volleyball court, a golf league, soccer team and a host of extracurricular activities that keep our team spirit strong. Many of these activities involve charitable and civic involvement - giving back to the communities and residents where we live and work. When we're all in it together, great things happen!

What is Spectrum Health? We are the strongest health care system in West Michigan and the area's largest employer. Our commitment to maintaining our status as an employer of choice makes Spectrum Health a great place to work. And West Michigan's small cosmopolitan area near the lakeshore makes this a great place to live.

What Makes Spectrum Health a Cool Company? Spectrum offers a stimulating environment that rewards talent, and provides opportunities for professional advancement and personal growth. We're a nationally recognized health care system, with a reputation as a teaching hospital that provides world-class care. Our vision is to be the nation's highest quality and most successful health care enterprise by 2010, and we'd be glad to have you join us.

What is St. John Hospital and Medical Center? St. John Health, as a Catholic health ministry, is committed to providing spiritually centered, holistic care which sustains and improves the health of individuals in the communities we serve, with special attention to the poor and vulnerable.

What Makes St. John a Cool Company? For years, St. John Health has provided compassionate care and customer service to patients and families throughout southeast Michigan. It’s what we’re here for. It’s what we were called to do.

Today, we’re proud of our customer service heritage and want our patients and other customers to know how much we care.

What is St. Mary's Health Care? Saint Mary’s Health Care is an integrated network of health care excellence offering a unique combination of capabilities to deliver a health care experience that is more complete and personally satisfying.

What Makes St. Mary's Health Care a Cool Company? Job satisfaction isn’t just about who you work for, it’s about who you work with, too.

It truly is different here. It’s a feeling that can only happen when bright, motivated, individuals work together and work hard to make a contribution, make a difference, and make new friends along the way. That’s not to say every day is perfect. But it is the perfect place to be if you like working in an environment where the mission is understood and the values are shared.

What is Stardock Systems? Stardock is a fast growing software development company. Its mission is to create the highest quality PC Windows software for both enterprise customers and consumers.

Stardock's business software can be found in 911 Call Centers, hospitals, and at retail. Stardock is also leading the way in Desktop Enhancements and PC games.

What Makes Stardock Systems a Cool Company? We take pride in being able to accomplish tasks without requiring excessive overtime while still making Stardock a fun place to work.

Stardock is always looking for talented and self-motivated people. If you would like to join the Stardock team send us a cover letter and resume.

What is Stone? Stone is a process-driven organization. Before a project starts, we know the exact path it will take. Each of our development stages has pre-defined steps and appropriate documentation to ensure a successful process and a successful launch.

It's natural to believe a process-centric agency means higher costs, but we’ve found otherwise. Process allows for rapid development, flexibility, and an optimal return on investment.

And clients play a pivotal role. Some choose to be hands-on while others want decisions made for them. Though this is determined by the client, we encourage as much insight and access as possible to ensure all expectations are exceeded.

What is Stryker? Stryker is one of the world’s leading medical technology companies with the most broadly based range of products in orthopaedics and a significant presence in other medical specialties. Stryker works with respected medical professionals to help people lead more active and more satisfying lives. The Company's products include implants used in joint replacement, trauma, craniomaxillofacial and spinal surgeries; biologics; surgical, neurologic, ear, nose & throat and interventional pain equipment; endoscopic, surgical navigation, communications and digital imaging systems; as well as patient handling and emergency medical equipment.

What Makes Stryker a Cool Company? Stryker offers results-driven people a place where they can make a difference. It is our privilege to create medical technology that exceeds our customers’ expectations and improves peoples’ lives around the world. We give you the opportunity to develop your career based on your strengths and potential, including the possibility to move geographically, functionally, laterally and vertically. Stryker is a career destination for engaged, passionate and talented people who seek the innovation, growth and opportunity that only we offer.

What is Sungrace Software? Sungrace provides end-to-end product development services to engineering software and manufacturing companies worldwide. Whether software development, 3D design services, or simulation, SUNGRACE brings the best of today's technical solutions for engineering and manufacturing enterprises.

As a privately held C-Corporation, Sungrace Software works in tandem with our sister concerns - Sungrace Computers and Sungrace Engineering - to provide a broad range of specialized skills to our customers.

As a coordinated group of companies, SUNGRACE serves the entire extended engineering enterprise, transforming software and manufacturing Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Engineering Procurement & Construction (EPC) companies and their software and design engineering suppliers with streamlined, technology-enabled services.

What is Symmetry Medical? Symmetry Medical (NYSE:SMA) is a leading provider of implants, instruments and cases to orthopedic device manufacturers. We also design, develop and produce these products for companies in the arthroscopy, dental, laparoscopy, osteobiologic, endoscopy and other segments of the medical device market, as well as provide specialized products and services to the aerospace market.

By working directly with you throughout the product design and development process, our talented team of researchers, engineers and developers make your needs our needs ... all with exceptional results.

With an impressive global footprint and world-class services, Symmetry Medical is the one source for Total Solutions. At Symmetry Medical, we offer a multi-disciplined team that assures your success.

What is Testek? For over 35 years, Testek has been designing and building custom test equipment for the Aerospace, Airlines, Aircraft Maintenance Facilities, Military, Industrial, Agricultural, Automotive and Nautical industries.

Our vast experience in design, engineering, manufacturing, and support along with our focus on meeting the needs of technological advancements has earned us a strong reputation as an industry leader.

We believe that Testek’s exceptional performance is based on our commitment to long-term client relationships; that belief is the reason why we have been in business for over 35 years, and it will be the reason why we will continue to be in business.

What Makes Wisley Law Firm a Cool Company? Offering large corporate experience and talent in a boutique setting to service the needs of clients of all sizes, the Wisley Law Firm offers flexible payment options and experience in a variety of area of the law.

What is Thermo Fisher Scientific? Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is the world leader in serving science, enabling our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. With annual revenues of $10.5 billion, we have more than 34,000 employees and serve over 350,000 customers within pharmaceutical and biotech companies, hospitals and clinical diagnostic labs, universities, research institutions and government agencies, as well as environmental and industrial process control settings. Serving customers through two premier brands, Thermo Scientific and Fisher Scientific, we help solve analytical challenges from routine testing to complex research and discovery. Thermo Scientific offers customers a complete range of high-end analytical instruments as well as laboratory equipment, software, services, consumables and reagents to enable integrated laboratory workflow solutions. Fisher Scientific provides a complete portfolio of laboratory equipment, chemicals, supplies and services used in healthcare, scientific research, safety and education. Together, we offer the most convenient purchasing options to customers and continuously advance our technologies to accelerate the pace of scientific discovery, enhance value for customers and fuel growth for shareholders and employees alike.

What Makes Thermo Fisher Scientific a Cool Company? All of our employees share a common set of values - Integrity, Intensity, Innovation and Involvement. Our ability to grow year after year is driven by our ability to attract, develop and retain world-class people who will thrive in our environment and share in our desire to improve mankind by enabling our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer.

What is Thomson Reuters? Thomson Reuters is the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals.

What Makes Thomson Reuters a Cool Company? We combine industry expertise with innovative technology to deliver critical information to leading decision makers in the financial, legal, tax and accounting, scientific, healthcare and media markets, powered by the world’s most trusted news organization.

Thomson Reuters shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: TRI); Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: TRI); London Stock Exchange (LSE: TRIL); and Nasdaq (NASDAQ: TRIN).

What is Trademark Productions? Trademark Productions is a boutique agency that specializes in SEO techniques. It is a digital agency, marketing agency, advertising agency and web agency all wrapped up in one.

What Makes Trademark Productions a Cool Company? The most unique aspect of TM is the philosophy through which TM conducts business. We believe it's not only our duty, but also our pleasure to serve our clients with the utmost respect and personal attention. We don't approach projects as 'working on your website'. Instead, we're working wiht you on our website; you and us. Our close client interaction leads us to create and maintain relationships with customers that you won't find elsewhere in the online search engine optimization, web development or marketing fields.

What is Transonic Combustion? Our lifework matters. And Transonic’s all star team of engineers, scientists, combustion experts, and talented personnel are dedicated to dramatically improving efficiency of personal transportation. Our purpose is to bring our transformational fuel efficiency products to global markets broadly and rapidly. We are pushing the frontiers of science and engineering innovation, challenging traditional thinking, and accomplishing results that amaze our customers. Our passion comes from our desire for better living conditions and quality of life, for current and future generations.

What Makes Transonic Combustion a Cool Company? Transonic opened our Bloomfield Township office doors in July 2009 after securing support from Michigan’s Economic Dev-elopment Corporation. This new location will help facilitate our business development and growth in the automotive capital of the world. With Michigan’s investment to reinvigorate its economy and attract hot new companies like Transonic, it’s a great time to establish our presence in the Detroit area.

We think working here is the best job we’ve ever had and could hope for. Seriously. Every day we’re tackling one of the world’s greatest issues in energy efficiency. There’s camaraderie in the Transonic family that is challenging and energizing. We’re at the forefront of the clean transportation technology revolution. And our families are proud of the work we’re doing and the accomplishments that are ahead. Our company is small, nimble, fast-paced, and growing. Transonic is a great place to work and be part of something special.

What is Tyco Electronics? With a 50-plus year history of leadership, Tyco Electronics is a US$14.4 billion global provider of engineered electronic components for thousands of consumer and industrial products; network solutions and systems for telecommunications and energy markets; undersea telecommunication systems; and specialty products. We design, manufacture and market products for customers in a broad array of industries including automotive; data communication systems and consumer electronics; telecommunications; aerospace, defense and marine; medical; alternative energy; and lighting.

What Makes Tyco Electronics a Cool Company? Tyco Electronics is an industry powerhouse with an entrepreneurial spirit, fueled by innovation and collaboration. Our emphasis on forward thinking has attracted the brightest industry minds, allowing them to thrive and create breakthrough solutions that deliver a competitive advantage to our customers.

What Makes Unity Studios a Cool Company?

UNITY is a community of imagination, education, technology and facilities,
which stands to greatly impact Michigan’s economy.

• Significant employment opportunities for Michigan’s skilled work force.
• Infrastructure, film stages and facilities for the growing production demand.
• On site media trade school.
• New media and technology development.
• National attention for Michigan as a progressive leader in film production.
• Synergy with local businesses.
• A magnet for out-of-state commerce, jobs and revenue.
• Hands on classrooms to foster and develop new talent.
• Self-sufficient “Green” community.

UNITY…a Joining of Vision and Demand

What is Urban Science? Advanced data analytics, informed strategic insight and robust planning tools deliver critical competitive, cost and customer-relationship advantages for your business.

Exceptional data-collection and analysis yield scientific information that drives network performance. Statistical modeling, market benchmarking, segmentation analysis, market profiling and advanced data mining are examples of Urban Science tools to maximize sales-channel performance.

Experienced consultants design, develop and implement strategically sound sales-channel initiatives. Real-world experience, disciplined processes and proprietary methodologies are applied to help gauge market opportunity, assess competitive strengths, develop performance standards and create effective marketing programs.

What Makes Urban Science a Cool Company? With a 20% annual growth rate, Urban Science is a dynamic and exciting place to work. In creating custom solutions for Fortune 500 clients around the world, we call on our employees not only to exercise personal initiative, but to be a part of local and international teams that leverage group strengths to solve problems and accomplish goals.

We also take time out to enjoy social and charitable activities. Company-sponsored events, such as an annual company picnic, sporting events, and charity races & marathons, serve to build a camaraderie that carries over into our daily work.

Shortly after you join us, we'll help you plot a career map. This will identify the skills and proficiencies you'll need to develop in order to attain your career goals. Then, we'll support you with a variety of career-enhancing programs that may include formal training, on-the-job experience, coaching, and performance management.

What is Valassis? Valassis (NYSE: VCI) delivers value to consumers how, when and where they want through our consumer brand, RedPlum™. We put good deals in your hands from our 15,000 advertisers. We offer a wide range of media and marketing services to consumer packaged goods manufacturers, retailers, food service providers and other clients.

What is Viability, LLC? Viability, LLC helps companies develop sustainable strategies by assisting in acquiring grants, performing carbon assessments, generating carbon credits, and realizing other incentives to lower costs and improve return on investment.

Specializing in sustainable business including: renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, carbon management, financial strategies, incentive opportunities, and assisting with engineering design and construction management.

What Makes Viability a Cool Company? Employees at Viability can play a key role in assisting companies in increasing their sustainability.

What is Web Savvy Marketing? Web Savvy Marketing is a boutique Internet marketing and public relations firm that specializes in organic search engine optimization, social media campaigns, pay-per-click management, affiliate marketing coaching and web design, analysis and reporting.

What Makes Web Savvy Marketing a Cool Company? In an uncertain economy Rebecca Gill, President,  left her 'day job' to pursue her passion of Internet marketing. The launch of Web Savvy Marketing was a leap of faith that fulfilled both her personal and professional goals, as well as an example of entrepreneurship and renewal within the state of Michigan.

What is Woodward? Woodward designs, manufactures, and services energy control systems and components for aircraft and industrial engines and turbines. Leading OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) throughout the world use our products and services in the power generation, process industries, transportation, and aerospace markets.

Founded in 1870, Woodward (Nasdaq:WGOV) serves its customers worldwide through manufacturing facilities and sales offices, central distributors and authorized dealers, and authorized independent service facilities.

• Ann Arbor
• Lansing
• Metro Detroit
• West Michigan