10/4/2024 - Courtesy of Louisiana Central‍

Baton Rouge, LA – Crest Industries, a leader in energy, infrastructure, and industrial services, has been awarded the prestigious Lantern Award for the Central Region at Louisiana Economic Development's 45th Annual Lantern Awards. This honor recognizes Crest Industries’ outstanding contributions to both business innovation and community service.

Kenny Robison, CEO and Owner of Crest Industries, expressed his gratitude in accepting the award. “This recognition reflects the incredible work of our teams, the values that have guided us since my father founded the company in 1958, and the investments we’ve made in our people, our communities, and our future,” Robison said.

The Lantern Awards, established in 1979 by Louisiana Economic Development (LED), recognize Louisiana manufacturers that demonstrate excellence in innovation, business success, and community engagement. Awarded during National Manufacturing Week, the Lantern Awards celebrate the contributions of manufacturers who play a vital role in advancing both the economy and the well-being of their communities. 

This award marks the third time Crest Industries has received a Lantern Award from Louisiana Economic Development. The company previously earned the award in 1982 and 2012. 

Robison shared, “Since the last time we received a Lantern from LED, our company has quadrupled in size, expanded into 10 new markets and facilities, and developed innovative products that are transforming our industries. But growth is only part of the story. At Crest, we believe that success is about empowering those around us to grow as well. This award reminds us that our commitment to collaboration, innovation, and doing the right thing is not only benefiting our company—it’s strengthening Louisiana’s future.”

Each winner receives a handcrafted lantern from Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, symbolizing their role in lighting the way for future generations of Louisiana business leaders.

Since its founding in 1958, Crest Industries has been a pillar of economic vitality in Pineville and across Central Louisiana. In the last decade, Crest has grown into a company with over 1,300 employees and a diverse range of businesses. Beyond their business success, Crest Industries has also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community development, recently funding 14 elementary, high school, and collegiate STEM programs, participating in more than 40 community events, and donating over $200,000 to local non-profit organizations.

Louisiana Central, the economic development organization for the region, nominated Crest Industries for the Lantern Award in recognition of these significant contributions. Lafe Jones, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Louisiana Central said: "Crest Industries is a remarkable local success story, continuously expanding and setting the standard for innovation and corporate culture. Their significant contributions to our local economy through financial investments and job creation are complemented by their unwavering commitment to community service and philanthropy. The Crest team embodies the spirit of the Lantern Awards.”

The Lantern Award not only honors Crest Industries' achievements but also highlights their role in shaping the future of Louisiana’s manufacturing sector. As a key part of Manufacturing Month, the award underscores the importance of manufacturers like Crest Industries in driving both regional and statewide progress.

For more information about Crest Industries, visit www.crestoperations.com.

To learn more about the Lantern Awards, visit the Louisiana Economic Development website.

About Crest Industries: 

Founded in 1958, Crest Industries is the operating company for a family of businesses specialized in electric power delivery, industrial services, distribution, specialty chemicals, and natural resources. We are rooted in our people and built around progress – growing year after year, unafraid to embrace bold, new ideas to improve the way we support our teams, clients, and communities. Learn more at www.crestoperaitons.com.

About Louisiana Central: 

Louisiana Central is the regional economic development organization and pivotal connector for Central Louisiana dedicated to fostering economic growth and development in the ten-parish region of Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Concordia, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon, and Winn. By attracting and supporting businesses across various sectors, including manufacturing, Louisiana Central aims to create new job opportunities and grow the region's economy. Learn more about Louisiana Central at www.louisiana-central.com.