Johnson Coil Co. Shows Antigo Plant To Group Working To Boost Manufacturing

Johnson Electric Coil of Antigo joined over 200 manufacturers across the nation in opening their doors to the community to celebrate Manufacturing Day.

Wisconsin manufacturers participated to help expand knowledge and improve public perception of manufacturing careers and manufacturing’s value to the local and U.S. economy.

The National Association of Manufacturers and the Manufacturing Institute, along with the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International and the U.S. Commerce Department’s Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership, were co-producers of the event.

Locally, the Northwest Wisconsin Manufacturing Outreach Center based at University of Wisconsin-Stout sponsored and promoted the initiative.

Johnson Electric Coil showcased its business and the outstanding results of the continuous improvement activities the company has implemented with the assistance of the outreach center.

Company officials said these initiatives have not only resulted in positive impacts on their bottom line but have created enhanced work experiences and benefits for their employees.

“The center’s work here has completely transformed the culture.” President Bill Bockes said. “It has created a secure environment for our employees including safety, finance and self-fulfillment.”

Operations manager Julie Berndt said that the decision making and team building components combined with the sense of accomplishment are amazing.

“It is gratifying to contribute to the important work of manufacturing which is critical to the economy in our community and our country,” she said. “Anyone who thinks they can’t make a career in manufacturing is wrong.”

The Northwest Wisconsin Manufacturing Outreach Center works with small and mid-sized U.S. manufacturers to help them create and retain jobs, increase profits, and save time and money.

Last year, through third-party independent surveying, clients reported over $13.9 million in impacts and 123 jobs created or saved as a result of outreach services provided to manufacturers in 33 counties in northern and western Wisconsin.

Johnson Electric Coil President Bill Bockes, center, leads a tour.