HUNTSVILLE, AL – CFD Research has been named the 2025 ESOP Company of the Year by the Southeast Chapter of The ESOP Association, a national organization dedicated to promoting employee ownership. This prestigious recognition highlights the company’s commitment to shared success, innovation, and economic growth through its 100% employee-owned model, distinguishing CFD Research as a leader among more than 110 ESOP companies across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia.
Christal Smith, Britton Twyman, Cathy Hill, and Michelle Edge accepted the 2025 Company of the Year Award on behalf of CFD Research, presented by the Southeast Chapter of The ESOP Association.
CFD Research, a leader in the development and transition of cutting-edge technology solutions, established its ESOP in 2004 and transitioned to 100% employee-owned in 2023. Since forming the ESOP, its workforce has embraced an ownership mindset, driving notable business growth, increased employee engagement, and a thriving company culture. By providing employees with a direct stake in the company’s performance, CFD Research has strengthened collaboration, encouraged innovation, and fostered an environment where every team member is invested in the company’s long-term success.
The company has also been an active advocate for employee ownership, engaging in industry events and educational programs to deepen its ESOP culture. After joining The ESOP Association in 2023 as part of the Southeast Chapter, CFD Research quickly made an impact, winning the 2024 Southeast Chapter Rising Star of the Year award. This recognition was the first of its kind in the chapter’s history and highlighted CFD Research’s promotion of employee ownership principles.
“We are honored to receive this recognition,” said Sameer Singhal, President & CEO of CFD Research. “Employee ownership is not just a structure, it’s a mindset that empowers every individual at CFD Research to contribute to our success. This award reflects the hard work, dedication, and innovation of our employee-owners.”
By winning 2025 ESOP Company of the Year by the Southeast Chapter, CFD Research solidifies its place as a regional leader in employee ownership. Through continued investment in employee education, leadership development, and a strong workplace culture, the company remains committed to ensuring that every employee-owner has the tools, resources, and support needed to succeed.
About CFD Research: Since its inception in 1987, CFD Research has delivered innovative technology solutions within the Aerospace & Defense, Biomedical & Life Sciences, Intelligence & Sensing, and Energy & Materials industries. CFD Research has earned multiple national awards for successful application and commercialization of innovative component/system technology prototypes, multi-physics simulation software, multi-disciplinary analyses, and expert support services. Based in Huntsville, Alabama where laboratory facilities and headquarters are located, CFD Research also has office and laboratory facilities in Dayton, Ohio, prototyping test and evaluation facilities in Hollywood, Alabama, and office facilities in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. CFD Research is an ISO9001:AS9100D registered company and is appraised at CMMI Level II for Services. CFD Research is a 100% ESOP (employee-owned company) recognized in Inc. Magazine’s Inc5000 as a top growing company for four of the last five years. Learn more at www.cfd-research.com
