SPECIAL TO DORCHESTER COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT by Cambridge International: Dorchester County-based Cambridge International was recognized by SmartCEO magazine as one of the Washington, D.C. region’s fastest-growing, mid-sized companies at a gala event held February 4 at the Hyatt Regency Reston in Virginia. Cambridge CEO Tracy L. Tyler accepted the Future 50 award from SmartCEO market director, Heather Louise Finch before 500 attendees.

Cambridge was the only Eastern Shore awardee and the oldest company selected by the magazine’s editors. Tyler – the only manufacturing CEOs honored in the Future 50 category — was recognized for her management of the challenges, successes and strategy behind Cambridge’s growth.

“On behalf of our entire team, I am proud to accept this prestigious award,” said Tyler. “By leveraging the fearlessness of our founders and constantly innovating, we increased sales, customers, revenues and employees, leading to the most successful period in our 105-year history.”

The January 2016 edition of SmartCEO notes that Cambridge has evolved to become the global leader in metal conveyor belts and metal mesh for the architecture industry. Cambridge holds more patents than any other competitor and continues to revolutionize continuous processing belt technology.

Chosen based on a three-year average of employee and revenue growth, the 2016 awardees represent the future of the region’s economy and embody the entrepreneurial spirit critical for leadership and success. To be considered, companies must be headquartered in the Capital region; have experienced steady or significant growth over the past three fiscal years; and have generated a minimum of $10 million in annual revenue. In addition, the top leadership must have been in that position for at least one year.

Tyler was named President and CEO six years ago and has overseen a period of global expansion and growth. She started in the company’s sales division in 1993 and quickly rose through the ranks to become CEO in April 2010.