All Stars

M A N U F A C T U R I N G A L L S T A R S 2 0 19 5 S P O N S O R P A I D P R O F I L E challenges we face. Everyone works as a team to find solutions to problems, such as if a machine is running poorly, so that the stress level isn't that high. Are there any negative perceptions about manufacturing careers that you would like to change? That manufacturing is not a career and it's the same job every day. What I like about the challenges we face is that it makes the day go faster, and the people are just amazing here. Rockline has taught me everything and provided all the tools to get me where I am today. Do you have a mentor? I have not formally had a mentor; however, I have had some previous managers who have made a significant impact on my career by challenging me and helping me learn from my mistakes. ARIENS COMPANY Brillion O n any given week at Ariens Company, at least one employee will be celebrating a milestone anniversary of 25, 30, 40 or even 50 years with the company. Many have had numerous different positions over their career. "Because we are a family-owned company, we can make day-to-day decisions that are focused on our long-term growth," says Dan Ariens, company chairman and CEO. For employees starting their careers, Ariens Company offers on-the-job learning opportunities including apprenticeships, job shadowing and internships in safety, Lean manufacturing and manufacturing leadership. Many employees who began working in direct manufacturing positions move to other departments within the company. Ariens Company has been building outdoor power equipment used by homeowners and professionals for more than 80 years. The company sells a variety of products including snow blowers, lawn mowers, professional zero-turn mowers and chore products like power brushes, edgers and even utility vehicles. Those products start out as raw steel delivered to two facilities in Brillion. Employees take the steel through many processes including stamping, laser-cutting, welding, painting, assembly and testing before they ship out as finished product. "There are many opportunities for people who like the idea of creating something tangible out of nothing," Ariens says. "The one thing that all manufacturing employees have in common is that they like to solve problems." When problems do come up, five "Company Core Values" set the tone for decision- making: Be Honest, Be Fair, Keep Our Commitments, Respect the Individual and Encourage Intellectual Curiosity. The company has been growing through acquisition, expanded product lines and investment in new technology. Employees who join the Ariens team have the unique opportunity to impact the business in a fast- paced, high-energy environment. Are there any negative perceptions about manufacturing careers that you would like to change? I think there is a perception that the manufacturing positions might be boring, but now with zone ownership (a system that allows employees to take creator ownership in maintenance and repair) and new technology, the positions are a lot more engaging and exciting. There is a lot more interaction with the business rather than the perception of just watching the machine run. What has been the most fulfilling experience you have had at your company? I would say conducting a regional janitorial bid for 11 different facilities across seven states. Not only did this result in an approximate $250,000 cost savings, but it was also an improvement in service level for a majority of the facilities. Do you have a mentor? My mentor is my current manager, Mark Blozinski. He is dedicated and productive, all while keeping work a fun environment. He has given me the decision rights to do my job effectively. He always makes time for questions or concerns and keeps an open mind. Do you believe that your job is an exciting and engaging profession? Absolutely! Every day is a new challenge and new technology and transformation keeps the job exciting! ariens.com Ariens | facebook.com/Ariens Gravely | facebook.com/Gravely Ariens | youtube.com/AriensChannel Gravely | youtube.com/GravelyChannel Ariens | twitter.com/Ariens Gravely | twitter.com/gravelymowers Dan Ariens | twitter.com/Dariens58 Ariens | instagram.com/arienscompany# Gravely | instagram.com/gravelymower# For more information about Ariens Company check out the following:

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