"We act like owners."
It's not just one of our core values. It's in the DNA of who Hydro-Chem Systems is and what has shaped our continued evolution since we were formed in 1971 as a 100% employee-owned company.
Through its ESOP (employee stock ownership plan) status, Hydro-Chem Systems is a proud member of the Michigan Chapter ESOP Association, a community of employee-owned companies united around education, engagement, and advocacy for employee ownership.
Each year, the Michigan Chapter recognizes an "ESOP Company of the Year" which is awarded to a company that demonstrates a strong commitment to employee ownership, clear communication with employees, and a genuine culture of participation, wealth creation, and individual dignity.
This year, Hydro-Chem Systems was selected as the 2026 recipient.
Below is an excerpt from the announcement. The full post can be found on the Michigan Chapter's LinkedIn:
"Hydro-Chem Systems continues to set the standard for what it means to build a thriving, employee-owned organization. Their focus on empowering employee-owners and fostering a culture of accountability and pride is what makes ESOP companies so special."
This is the third time Hydro-Chem Systems has received the honor, having previously won in 2019 and 2021. Additionally, Chad Reiffer was announced as a finalist for the 2026 Michigan Chapter Employee Owner of the Year.
Hydro-Chem Systems remains proud of its status as one of the small percentage of 100% employee-owned companies in the US. Our employee-owners are invested in their work because they have a direct stake in the outcome. It drives accountability, tenure, and a level of expertise that benefits every customer we serve.
Annually, millions of vehicles on the road are kept clean and safe using Hydro-Chem Systems detergents, wash systems, technical support, and industry knowledge. While doing that, our employee-owners stay actively involved in their communities through charitable drives, volunteering, and industry advocacy.
Thank you to the Michigan Chapter of the ESOP Association and everyone involved in the nomination and voting process. And most of all, thank you to our employee-owners who show up every day and earn it.