President Obama visits Orion Energy

MANITOWOC - President Barack Obama traveled to Northeast Wisconsin Wednesday to promote the need for America to lead the way in innovation.

President Obama arrived in Manitowoc to show America what he says it takes to be a leader. Specifically, he came to visit Orion Energy Systems, a green company that he says is ahead of its time.

"Orion is a leader in solar power and energy efficiency technology, plus the plant is just very cool," said Obama.

The President took the opportunity following the Green Bay Packers' defeat of the Chicago Bears to reference legendary Packers coach Vince Lombardi. He used his words before the crowd of about 300 employees and political guests to get his message across about being globally competitive.

"(Lombardi) said, 'there is no room for second place. There's only one place in my game and that's first place.' That's the kind of determination to win that America needs to show right now," said Obama.

Following up on his State of the Union Address, the President echoed his call for the best education and innovation. He toured Orion with its CEO Neal Verfeurth.

The plant manufactures low-cost, energy efficient lighting and light pipes--similar to skylights, except they magnify the sun's brightness. Since the doors opened here seven years ago, it has grown from one employee to 250.

"These aren't just good jobs that help you pay your bills for the family, these jobs are good for all of us because they make everybody's energy bills cheaper, they make the planet safer," said Obama.

The operation here was shut down for the day, but the publicity was invaluable for Orion.

"It's nice to turn your place into a presidential setting for a day," said Kevin Crawford, Orion spokesman and former mayor of Manitowoc who worked to bring Orion to the area.

And for the city of Manitowoc, being set up as a presidential example for other communities to follow, Mayor Justin Nickels couldn't be more proud.

"For the President to specifically point out Manitowoc as a place where we're getting things done is huge," said Nickels.

"We're going to need to get serious about winning the future," said Obama.

In addition to Orion, Obama also toured Skana Aluminum. Both took over space in the former Mirro Plant that closed in 2003.

Obama pointed out they are examples of how important it is for America to reinvent itself to win in today’s global competition.