JR Machine receives investment from Schneider Resources
Schneider Resources Holding, a family‑owned private investor, is now a majority equity member in JR Machine of Shawano.
JR Machine, which received a Manufacturer of the Year award in 2019, machines complex parts from nickel‑based superalloys such as Inconel. These alloys are in high demand among leaders in space exploration and other emerging markets.
The investment from SRH positions JR Machine to grow in tandem with its customers as these markets, including space travel, continue to evolve.
“JR Machine is ready for growth. Building parts for the most recognizable names in space exploration has allowed us to lean into Industry 4.0 and revolutionize how we work. Now we can reach the next stage for our customers faster,” said Tim Tumanic, JR Machine’s founder-owner. “Schneider Resources Holding is a perfect match. We share long-held values of quality, innovation, providing good careers for our staff, and supporting our commitment to grow in the Shawano area.”
Appeals court restores portion of lawsuit against former Appvion executives
Earlier this month a Federal Court of Appeals revived a portion of a lawsuit accusing former Appvion officials of inflating the Appleton-based paper coatings manufacturer’s value before it went bankrupt.
The lawsuit was filed in 2018 by Appvion workers that were involved in the company’s Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP). It alleged that in 2001, then-owner Arjo Wiggins hired a financial firm that intentionally overvalued the company to increase the price to form the ESOP, as well as to boost their own commission on the sale.
The plaintiffs also argued that valuation was continually inflated by State Street Bank and Trust and Reliance Trust every year in setting the employee stock option price, and that company officials, including former CEO Kevin Gilligan, accepted those numbers, despite knowing they were not accurate. Appvion eventually declared bankruptcy in 2017.
Tyco reaches PFAS settlement
Tyco Fire Products of Marinette has agreed to a $750 million settlement with communities that detected perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in public water systems. Tyco, a subsidiary of Johnson Controls International, manufactured foam containing PFAS at its facility in Marinette. PFAS are used to manufacture a wide variety of products, including nonstick cookware, stain-resistant clothing, food wrappers and firefighting foam. The chemicals do not break down easily and have been found to pose potential health hazards when they accumulate.
Tyco expects to contribute an initial $250 million on or about May 25, with the remaining $500 million to be contributed six months after preliminary court approval of the settlement. Settlement documents do not specify which communities will receive the funds, though it does specify that the settlement excludes private water systems and those operated by the U.S. government or any state. Napoli Shkolnik law firm filed the suit that resulted in the settlement and has been active in obtaining similar settlements with companies including 3M and Dupont. The settlement does not resolve any litigation regarding personal injury, real property damage and other types of actions. It also specifies that it is not an admission of guilt.
Fincantieri lays keel for USS Constellation
Fincantieri Marinette Marine hosted U.S. Navy and government officials last month at a traditional keel-laying ceremony for the future USS Constellation (FFG 62). Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti participated along with Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and Fincantieri Marine Group CEO Marco Galbiati. Hundreds of FMM shipbuilders gathered with guests inside the shipyard’s massive new climate-controlled Building 34, where large portions of a ship are connected and the vessel is erected.
The centuries-old ritual highlights the authentication of the keel, a process of tracing by welding the initials of a significant individual onto a small steel plate affixed to the ship’s keel. For the future USS Constellation, Melissa Braithwaite was named the ship’s sponsor. She is the wife of former Navy Secretary Kenneth Braithwaite. Fincantieri Marinette Marine welder Jean Wagner completed the authentication process by tracing Mrs. Braithwaite’s initials onto the plate. Wagner is the first female FMM welder to earn this responsibility.
Fincantieri Marinette Marine received a contract for $795 million in April 2020 for the lead ship and nine additional vessels. If the Navy exercises all of the options, the contract is valued at more than $5.5 billion. To date, the Navy has five frigates on order with Fincantieri Marinette Marine, with five additional options remaining on the original contract.
Lawton Standard acquires RMG
The Lawton Standard Co. has recently combined with Renaissance Manufacturing Group. RMG, which employs 160, produces castings in all ductile/nodular grades, compacted graphite, high-temp grades, high-abrasion grades, ADI and special grades/chemistries; it operates a ductile iron foundry in Anniston, Alabama, a machine shop in Grafton, and a sales office in Menomonee Falls. Phil Knoebel, formerly president of the standalone RMG, will join Lawton’s leadership team and head the sales and services segment for RMG-Lawton Standard.
“What started as two long-standing, independent, foundry-based companies in 2019 is evolving into a multi-location, multi-faceted supplier with the best cultural and process characteristics,” said Alex Lawton, CEO of Lawton Standard. “With the addition of RMG and the shared long-term vision of the two formerly separate companies, our services offering is making a major leap forward. We’re eager to continue working on raising the standard for casting-related solutions.”
Green Bay Dressed Beef honored by Wisconsin Safety Council
Last month the Wisconsin Safety Council — the state’s leading provider of safety training and products — announced nine winners of its 30th annual Corporate Safety Awards. Three honorees hailed from the New North region, including large manufacturing honoree Green Bay Dressed Beef, LLC.
The program recognizes Wisconsin companies that are dedicated to prioritizing a culture of safety in the workplace and have maintained exceptional safety records.
Nine New North makers earn “Best of Class” awards at World Cheese Championships
A total of 15 “Best of Class” honors were presented to Northeast Wisconsin-made cheeses at the 2024 World Championship Cheese Contest hosted by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association March 5-7 in Madison. In addition, Kiel-made Henning’s aged cheddar midget was one of the top 20 overall cheeses recognized in the competition — making it one of only two Wisconsin companies to earn top 20 honors. Henning’s also earned “Best of Class” medals in the pepper-flavored high heat and traditional waxed cheddar categories. Entries were evaluated by a team of skilled technical judges from around the globe.
Other New North companies taking home category honors included Bel Gioioso of Denmark (spreadable natural cheese; aged provolone); LaClare Creamery of Malone (soft goat’s milk; soft goat’s milk – flavored); Masters Gallery Foods of Plymouth (shredded cheese blend); Agropur of Little Chute (string cheese), Weyauwega (mild cheddar, 0-3 mos.), and Luxemburg (mozzarella); Arla Foods of Kaukauna (havarti, flavored gouda); Pine River of Newton (cold pack); Land O’Lakes of Kiel (cheddar, aged 2 years or longer); and Rosewood Dairy of Algoma (cheese-based spread). To see the complete list of the 2024 World Championship Cheese Contest winners, visit worldchampioncheese.org/results.
Endries forges partnership with PennEngineering
Brillion-based Endries International Inc. has announced a North American distributor partnership with Pennsylvania-based PennEngineering. Founded in 1942, PennEngineering is a global leader in the fastening industry and is the manufacturer of PEM self-clinching fastening solutions.
“Endries is excited to partner with PennEngineering, a market leader in fastening technology,” said Shiv Bhandare, Endries’ director of global procurement. “This aligns perfectly with our value proposition to our customers of world-class services and product offerings.”
Packer Fastener relocates
Packer Fastener, the Green Bay-based threaded fastener and industrial supply distributor, has moved its headquarters from 728 Lombardi Ave. to 500 Pilgrim Way in Ashwaubenon. The new location is in the former VerHalen, Inc. property and houses Packer Fastener with its sibling companies, Packer Freight and Albolt Manufacturing, all under the PFS Companies family brand.
“This move is big for us and for our customers,” said Terry Albrecht, founder and CEO of PFS Companies. “Outgrowing our Lombardi home is a reflection of our deep customer loyalty, and a move this big demonstrates our continued commitment to providing them with the best possible customer experience.”
Oshkosh Defense awarded $40 million ROGUE-Fires contract
Oshkosh Defense has been awarded an additional delivery order valued at $40 million for the procurement of Remotely Operated Ground Unit for Expeditionary Fires (ROGUE-Fires) to be used in the Navy/Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System.
Developed for the U.S. Marine Corps and designed to operate in both teleoperated and leader/follower modes, ROGUE-Fires serves as a versatile launcher platform capable of handling various weapon payloads. In October 2023, Oshkosh announced the contract to begin low-rate initial production from the Marine Corps Systems Command.
Second annual 40 Under 40 Awards to be presented May 29
Insight’s second annual 40 Under 40 awards, recognizing the most influential young professionals in the 18-county New North region, will be held May 29 from 4-7 p.m. at The Weidner in Green Bay. Enjoy a networking reception with drinks and hors d’oeuvres followed by a fast-paced awards program to individually recognize each honoree on stage. Tickets are available now at insightonbusiness.com/40u40. Among this year’s honorees are manufacturing leaders from companies including Waupaca Foundry, United Manufacturers, Procter & Gamble, Metko, Quality Roasting and Miller Electric Manufacturing.
New North Summit is June 6
New North, Inc.’s annual summit will be held June 6 at the Lambeau Field Atrium. Four thought leaders offering perspectives at the national level and from the New North region are a centerpiece of the event, including former Green Bay Packers safety and originator of the “Lambeau Leap” LeRoy Butler, Lachrisa Grandberry of Northern Sky Theater, Mary Snapp of Microsoft and Jim VandeHei of Axios. Attendees also will hear from Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes. In addition, the New North Workplace Excellence Award will be presented and the NEW Manufacturing Alliance will host its quarterly full membership meeting from 1:30-3 p.m.; the quarterly membership meeting will be members’ first opportunity to get a look at the results of the organization’s Industry 4.0 study.
Registration for the summit, themed “Leaps, Leaders, Legacies,” is now open at newnorthsummit.com.
Moms in MFG virtual conference is June 13
Women in Manufacturing will present its fourth annual Moms in MFG virtual conference June 13. The one-day event is dedicated to addressing specific challenges faced by mothers and caregivers in the manufacturing industry, offering strategies for support and engagement. Sessions will cover topics such as work-life balance, career development and self-advocacy, and the conference will also provide opportunities to network with fellow manufacturing moms and caregivers. Register online at womeninmanufacturing.org.
Women of Influence event is Aug. 1
Registration is now open for Insight’s Women of Influence in the New North Region awards, which will be presented Aug. 1 at Oneida Hotel Casino and Conference Center (formerly The Radisson) in Green Bay. Eight outstanding women from the 18-county region will be recognized, including 2024 Lifetime Achievement honoree Barb LaMue, president and CEO of New North, Inc. For more information about the honorees, sponsorship opportunities and attendance, visit insightonbusiness.com/women.
