Fla. firm with local ties named top innovator

Heico Corp., a $1 billion Hollywood-based aviation and electronics conglomerate with several business units on the Gulf Coast, was named one of the world's 100 most innovative companies by Forbes magazine.

It's the ninth year in a row the magazine recognized Heico on one of its top companies list, according to a release. “We are honored that Heico has once again been recognized by Forbes, a true testament to the expertise and innovative spirit of our more than
4,000 team members to whom I extend my deepest gratitude for their remarkable efforts and dedication,” Heico Chairman and CEO Laurans Mendelson says in the statement.

Heico's clients include a majority of the world's airlines and overhaul shops; defense and space contractors; military agencies; and medical, telecommunications and electronics equipment manufacturers. Units on the Gulf Coast include Fort Myers-based Future Aviation; Tampa-based Leader Tech; and Manatee County-based Radiant Power Corp.