4.16.2001 ET

(CSRwire) United Technologies Corp. and two of its subsidiaries have been honored by the Connecticut Minority Supplier Development Council for outstanding supplier diversity practices.

UTC, a provider of high-technology products and support services to the building and aerospace industries, was recently presented with the council's Corporation of the Year award for exemplary use of minority-owned suppliers. UTC's Hamilton Sundstrand was named Buyer of the Year, while its International Fuel Cells was honored as the Advocate of the Year.

"Minority businesses play an important role in supplying United Technologies with critical goods and services, and provide a key resource in the quest for innovative products and ideas," said Michael O. Brown, UTC vice president, worldwide sourcing.

Kent Brittan, UTC vice president of supply management, noted the use of minority suppliers makes good business sense. "Supplier diversity is a strategic business initiative throughout UTC," Brittan said. "It brings value to UTC by helping us grow in a very competitive environment." The company expects to do $250 million in business with minority suppliers this year, 25 percent more than last year.

The 25-year-old CMSDC, a nonprofit affiliate member of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, represents local and national Fortune 500 corporations, government agencies, universities, financial institutions, associations and other organizations.

"Our message to corporations and public agencies is loud and clear," said Ronald V. Williams, chairman of the council's Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee. "If a company wants to be recognized for its commitment to minority business, then it must aggressively open the door for minority business utilization."

The awards were presented April 11 at the council's annual banquet, which was themed "Twenty-five Years of Meeting the Challenge." More than 700 people attended.

"For the past 25 years, the CMSDC has dedicated its resources to helping minority businesses access profitable contracts from major corporations and the public sector," said Patrick Lorent, chairman of its board.

UTC is based in Hartford, Conn. Both Hamilton Sundstrand and IFC are also headquartered in the state: in Windsor Locks and South Windsor, respectively. UTC's other units are Pratt & Whitney, Sikorsky Aircraft, Otis Elevator and Carrier.

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