ANKOM Technology is an American Story
The original, guiding principles that made America a great nation also allow companies like ANKOM Technology to thrive. Trace with us the American experiment as we consider the birth of our nation and the faith foundations and philosophies that guided our founders. The idea of freedom and democracy set the stage for innovation and achievement; the growth of our economy. Consider too the many peoples who yearned for the freedoms offered by America. Their assimilation into the American fabric enhanced our progress and continued to build on a solid foundation. Compare and contrast that with the "birth" of ANKOM Technology, our faith foundations and corporate objectives and focus. A great country and a great company produce a worldwide impact!
The Beginning of the USA:
The United States of America is a country that was founded by colonists from Europe, many of whom were escaping religious persecution and economic restrictions in their home countries. Those colonists brought their unique culture, work ethic and knowledge to the “new world.” As the colonies expanded in territory and population, the people exchanged goods, language and ideas; creating truly diverse cultures. Great Britain’s oppression of the colonists inspired an uprising in 1775; the American Revolutionary War. The colonists won the war in 1781, resulting in the birth of a new nation; the uniting of many peoples of different backgrounds and experiences.
The Faith of the U.S. Founders
The founders of America wanted to provide economic, political and religious liberty to its citizens and found a dependable source in the Judeo-Christian ethos. Although many try to downplay the role of religion in the founding of America, the facts leave no doubt. Even the Mayflower Compact established by the initial settlers of America states that they saw their purpose as bringing “glory to God” and the “advancement of the Christian faith.” Although not every founding father shared a common theology, a review of their writings further reinforces their understanding of the importance of God’s grace and providence in the development of America.
Benjamin Franklin
“I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid?”
John Adams
“The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity.”
John Quincy Adams
“The birthday of the nation is indissolubly linked with the birthday of the Savior. The Declaration of Independence laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity.”
George Washington
“You do well to wish to learn our arts and ways of life, and above all, the religion of Jesus Christ. These will make you a greater and happier people than you are.”
Patrick Henry
“That religion, or duty which we owe to our Creator, and the manner of discharging it, can be directed only by reason and conviction, not by force or violence; and therefore all men are equally entitled to the free exercise of religion, according to the dictates of conscience; and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian forbearance, love, and charity towards each other.”
USA: Many Peoples, One Nation
Throughout its history as a nation, the United States of America has continued to welcome immigrants and integrate them as citizens of a unique American culture. With citizenship, newcomers are afforded economic opportunities, as well as political and religious freedoms guaranteed by law. Citizenship in turn requires a recognition of the uniqueness of the American experiment. Heritage, diversity and experience remain, now merged with a love and a desire to be an American. It is this melting pot of peoples that is uniquely America.
Emergence and Success of the U.S. economy
Economic historian Robert C. Puth in his book, American Economic History suggests that, “the superior utilization of human capabilities” was the main contributing force to the growth of the economy of the American colonies and later nation. The early American colonists possessed attitudes and created economic institutions that were responsive to economic changes and allowed aspiring entrepreneurs the freedom to pursue business ventures. These colonists were open to new ideas and methods still coming from Europe. When those ideas and methods were enhanced and developed further by innovative thinking the result was even greater.
ANKOM Technology gets started
Andy Komarek incorporated his business in 1988, starting out as an engineering and development company. Providing engineering and manufacturing services to a diverse groups of industries, Andy experienced many highs and many lows. There were times when Andy didn’t know if he would have enough money to pay his bills and feed his family. Andy knew that if he wanted to succeed he would have to work long hours and find any means possible to earn a living. When engineering jobs were light, no job was too small. During these times Andy relied on his faith in God and a willingness to adapt to his circumstances. The American dream is available to anyone who is willing to expend the time and effort. Hard work and integrity pay off. Faith, determination and hard work supplied the energy and drive to get through hard times.
Faith is at the core of ANKOM Technology
Christianity is very much the foundation of what makes ANKOM Technology the kind of company it is. Andy Komarek put his faith in Jesus Christ when he was a junior at the University of Buffalo studying Mechanical Engineering. It has been his reliance on God in large and small matters that Andy credits for the success of the company. A foundational verse for ANKOM Technology is found in Proverbs 2:6-8: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”
ANKOM focuses on improving analytical chemistry
As a result of various connections and opportunities, ANKOM Research and Development began focusing on various projects in animal nutrition. In 1992, Andy developed and ultimately patented Filter Bag Technology (FBT) to simplify and improve fiber analysis of animal feeds. In 1995, ANKOM Technology turned 100% of its focus toward improving analytical chemistry in both animal and human nutrition. Today, ANKOM Technology has numerous products to automate and simplify labor intensive analytical procedures. With business in over 120 countries ANKOM Technology is a testament to the power of faith and the opportunities available to anyone willing to work hard and seek ways to improve. The spirit of America surpasses social status and race; opening the door for a better tomorrow.
ANKOM's International Suppliers and Customers
ANKOM is a global player, doing business in over 120 countries with a worldwide distribution network https://www.ankom.com/global-distribution/map. ANKOM has a facility in upstate New York, where design and manufacturing take place. With a diverse workforce, ANKOM’s management philosophy understands that creativity flourishes in an environment that embraces individual talents and ideas. With a focus on producing only the highest quality products and supporting those products with superior customer service, ANKOM Technology has a reputation of excellence around the world. By taking advantage of the best manufacturing practices from around the world and managing a quality process that relies on continuous improvement, ANKOM products deliver the highest quality possible. This is all part of the American psyche; to build a better mouse trap.