This story also appeared on al.com.

AMERICAN Cast Iron Pipe Company’s Ductile Iron Pipe Division received the 2015 International Service Excellence Award that recognizes excellence, professionalism and outstanding achievement in customer service. The award is administered by the Customer Service Institute of America (CSIA), which certifies organizations against the International Customer Service Standards (ICSS). These standards provide a balanced internal scorecard with a stringent external assessment and certification program.

“Everyone at AMERICAN is focused on making sure the customer’s experience is positive and the project is a success,” said CSIA Managing Director Christine Churchill. “Customer Service team members work diligently to ensure all pieces of the puzzle are put together properly, and they focus on making the process easy for the customer. AMERICAN realizes the importance of building solid, long-term relationships. Employees from across the organization work together as one team to ensure things are done ‘The Right Way.’”

AMERICAN is the first company in the waterworks industry to receive the Excellence Award. Thirty companies applied for the award, and AMERICAN was the winner in the “Division of a Medium Business” category.

“Our customers expect and deserve the best,” said AMERICAN Customer Service Manager Scott Summers. “It’s important for us to find ways to set ourselves apart from the competition through the service we provide. The Excellence Award highlights our efforts to be flexible, easy to work with and genuine partners in our customers’ success. Receiving this award is proof that the Golden Rule works.”

Summers also said this award supports AMERICAN’s initiative to provide world-class customer service. He noted employees from several areas were involved in the assessment process including Marketing, Human Resources, Communications, Quality Assurance, PPIM, Operational Excellence, Innovation and Customer Service. “It truly was a team effort,” said Summers. “Our people are making a positive difference for our customers and our company. This is a big win for AMERICAN.”

AMERICAN Cast Iron Pipe Company was founded in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1905. AMERICAN manufactures ductile iron pipe, spiral-welded steel pipe, fire hydrants and valves for the waterworks industry and electric-resistance-welded steel pipe for the oil and natural gas industries. AMERICAN’s diversified product line also includes static castings and high-performance fire pumps.

To view the full list of winners, read “Customer Service Institute of America Announces the 2015 International Service Excellence Award Winners.”