HSM Transportation's Fort Smith Facility Achieves IATF 16949 Certification, Reinforcing Commitment to World-Class Automotive Quality
Earning IATF 16949 Certification is not simply about passing an audit, it reflects a culture built around quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. This certification is a direct result of our people living TSM's GRIT culture every day. It reflects thousands of decisions made with integrity, teamwork, continuous improvement, and a shared commitment to delivering quality without compromise.
FORT SMITH, Ark. September 14, 2026 HSM Transportation and Specialty Manufacturing (HSM) proudly announces that its Fort Smith, Arkansas manufacturing facility has officially achieved IATF 16949 Certification, one of the automotive industry's most respected international quality management standards.
The certification represents a major milestone for the Fort Smith team and reflects HSM's ongoing commitment to operational excellence, continuous improvement, customer satisfaction, and the highest standards of quality throughout its manufacturing operations.
Developed by the International Automotive Task Force (IATF), IATF 16949 establishes rigorous requirements for quality management systems within the automotive industry. Certification demonstrates an organization's ability to consistently deliver products that meet customer expectations while driving continual improvement, reducing variation, and preventing defects throughout the manufacturing process.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication, discipline, and teamwork demonstrated by every member of our Fort Smith team," said Mike Heyn, SVP "Earning IATF 16949 Certification is not simply about passing an audit, it reflects a culture built around quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. We are incredibly proud of everyone whose hard work and grit made this accomplishment possible.”
The certification process required over a years’ worth of preparation across every department, with employees working collaboratively to strengthen processes, improve documentation, enhance operational consistency, and ensure compliance with internationally recognized automotive quality standards.
For HSM, the certification strengthens its position as a trusted manufacturing partner within the automotive industry while supporting future growth opportunities and reinforcing their customer obsession.
"This accomplishment belongs to every employee who embraced the process and committed to raising the bar," said Justin McCutchen, Plant Manager for the Fort Smith facility. "Our team demonstrated what can be achieved when everyone works toward a common goal. This certification represents both where we are today and the foundation for where we're going."
To commemorate the achievement, HSM will celebrate the milestone with employees during a special IATF Certification event featuring an official IATF flag-raising ceremony, employee recognition, and the presentation of commemorative IATF jackets honoring the team's accomplishment.
While certification marks a significant achievement, HSM views it as the beginning of an ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and manufacturing excellence.
As customer expectations continue to evolve, HSM remains focused on investing in its people, refining its processes, and delivering exceptional quality that supports the success of its customers across the automotive industry.
About HSM Solutions
HSM Solutions is a leading manufacturer and provider of innovative solutions serving a diverse range of industries, including transportation, furniture, bedding, healthcare, and industrial markets. Through a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service, HSM delivers engineered products and manufacturing excellence from facilities across the United States.
Media Contact
Hannah Crisp
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HSM Solutions
Email: hacrisp@hsmsolutions.com
Phone: 828-328-2201