2023 Faces of Manufacturing

PABLO MARTINEZ
CNC Machinist - AIM Machining
Wahpeton

Years in MFG: 5

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Pablo awesome: Pablo had a very rough start in life, even being homeless for a period of time as an adolescent. An uncle suggested he could have a good life as a machinist if he pursued it and learned the trade. Pablo started with AIM, and after learning about NDSCS, enrolled in the Precision Machining Technology Program. Pablo graduated in 2023 with an AAS in Precision Machining Technology, he also served in student leadership organizations on campus, and was a mentor to many on campus. His enthusiasm and great attitude are contagious. He also serves as a Tae Kwon Do instructor for students at a local boarding school for native American kids.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? I love waking up knowing I get to work with my hands and head. I like that manufacturing as a whole is so diverse you can help play a part in making the things that we enjoy in our everyday lives. To the medical equipment that helps save people's lives to ambulance cars they come in, From our national defense to your kid's baseball bat. I love knowing I play a small part in the big picture of life.

GEINA ANDERSON
Production Supervisor - Baker Boy
Dickinson

Years in MFG: 2

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Geina awesome: Geina started as a bakery production assistant and quickly moved to a team leader. She recently accepted a position as one of our production supervisors. In her short time with Baker Boy, she has helped to make our organization better by spreading positivity, engaging in servant leadership, and helping our teams succeed when they are faced with challenges. 

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? The fast pace and always changing environment makes every day interesting! I've learned so much in a short time. I know I'll continue to learn and grow in my career, which makes my job easy to enjoy. I also really like that every person plays an important role, no matter what position you are in - supervisor, operator, packager, or even a support department. We share a common goal "provide quality product to our customers."

FLOYD MATTISON
Assistant Foreman - Cloverdale Foods Company
Mandan

Years in MFG: 6

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Floyd awesome: Floyd's dedication and commitment to his work are truly remarkable. He consistently goes and above and beyond to deliver high-quality results, often exceeding expectations. His attention to detail and problem-solving skills have significantly contributed to the success of numerous Cloverdale projects.

What truly sets Floyd apart is his genuine care for his colleagues and his unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand. I recently had the opportunity to witness Floyd's kindness and willingness to assist others when I saw him helping a fellow co-worker change her tire during his lunch break. His selflessness and willingness to support others exemplify the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie that we strive to foster within our organization.

Outside of work, Floyd is also an exemplary father. He consistently demonstrates a strong work-life balance, managing his professional responsibilities while actively engaging in his family life. His dedication to being both an outstanding professional and a loving parent serves as an inspiration to us all.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? The creation, the process, and reward of seeing the finished product are my favorite parts of manufacturing. Those are just a few things I enjoy most about the manufacturing industry. The one I probably like most is trying to meeting the demand of the world and supplying it with what it need and want.

ERIC FELCH
Sanitation - CoJACK Snack and Pack
Devils Lake

Years in MFG: 3

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Eric awesome: Eric is an all around great guy. He does his job with purpose and never cuts corners. His work makes everyone's day easier -keeping everything clean and sanitized so the other employees can focus on their respective responsibilities. Eric is an employee with Down syndrome and performs his responsibilities with ease. Eric has been a model employee since his first day in May of 2020.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? I like the cleaning tasks that I do. My favorite is sanitizing doors and handles. I enjoy working on my own and making money to buy stuff at Walmart. I am planning on getting a computer next. CoJACK's is fun -  I get to go to different parties. At Christmas, we went to The Cove for supper and had fun. I like that the people tell me when I do a good job.

KYLE WILSON
Master Electrician - Fisher Industries
Dickinson

Years in MFG: 5.5

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Kyle awesome: Kyle came to us from Estevan, Saskatchewan, Canada. He was hired on as an apprentice electrician and within 5 years became a master electrician. Not only does Kyle's everyday responsibilities keep him busy but Kyle is very active in the workplace serving on the PR Committee and as a junior ambassador for the Dream It, Do It program - promoting manufacturing to youth. He always steps forward helping with school related career events representing Fisher Industries in the best way possible. When away from work Kyle juggles life like we all do being a husband and father. Kyle is active in the community serving on the local Optimist Club committee and taking care of his Church's sound system.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? My favorite thing about this industry is how often we are on the cutting edge of new technologies. Whether it is new processes, or just new methods of production, it seems like every year things grow and evolve, which keeps it exciting.

Karen Nelson
Operations Manager - FlexTM, Inc
Wahpeton

Years in MFG: 20+

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Karen awesome: Karen is extremely focused on delivering the highest quality product, on-time for all customers. Her dedication to customers, employees and the company is exemplary for all to witness. She is able to inspire and lead people to understand what is not only required but expected in order for the company to delight our customers. She is a sincere and authentic person and is enjoyable to work with.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? I get to make something real that can be held, used, and make the difference in someone's life when they are taking advantage of the final product. Knowing you may have impacted someone's life because of the product you manufacture gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment. While I find it can be challenging at times, that only provides me more opportunities to learn and grow.

Mika Vandaveer
Mat & Mix Supervisor - Marvin Composites
Fargo

Years in MFG: 8

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Mika awesome:  There are so many reasons but let's start out with her top 2 Clifton Strengths: Includer and Positivity. She exudes positivity each and every day she is here, she wants everyone to be included and to see the future and their potential. Very early on in her career with us, I noticed that she will be one to watch as a future leader. Her willingness to learn new things is something I truly admire. She is not afraid of trying something new, like volunteering to be one of the first employees to be developing our newest material offering. Yes, I was sad to lose her but I knew she would soar and excel in this new endeavor. She jumped right in and became the lead person/trainer for future employees in that facility. Later on, she came back to became a Supervisor for a department that she has never worked in and is excelling in it. I am very excited to see what she decides to do next at Marvin Composites.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? There are a lot of reasons I enjoy working in the manufacturing industry. The industry is constantly changing, growing, and has endless opportunities. There is room to challenge yourself and expand your knowledge which I thrive on because I do not get bored. I enjoy having the opportunity to learn and be a part of a growing company. I take pride in seeing our amazing products installed in houses or businesses and knowing that I took part in creating the product.

Dylan Tostenson
Laser Operator - McNeilus Steel 
Fargo

Years in MFG: 10 months

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Dylan awesome: Dylan sets a good example for the next generation coming into the manufacturing industry. Out of high school, Dylan attended college for a year and realized that was not for him. He decided to join our team with zero manufacturing experience. In a short period of time, Dylan has learned many new skills and has advanced from entry level laborer to now operating a million-dollar laser cutter. Additionally, Dylan is a 2nd generation family member that works on our team - Dylan's father is a sales manager and has been with McNeilus Steel for 20+ years. This to me shows that Dylan has watched his father advance within the organization and achieve success in manufacturing industry - at least enough to give it a try for himself. If Dylan continues to apply himself and strive for more, he will achieve great success in the industry and life.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? McNeilus gave me the opportunity to start working full time. I am able to learn new things and how to run different machines. After starting as a parts sorter, I was able to move up to a laser operator for 2 different machines. That shows that you can advance in the work force with and without going to college. 

Brandi Griffith
Production Manager & Safety Coordinator - Spectrum Aeromed
Fargo

Years in MFG: 12 (2 with Spectrum Aeromed)

FROM THE NOMINATOR

Why is Brandi awesome: Brandi plays a vital role in overseeing the manufacturing process of the company’s products, modular and custom-built air ambulance equipment. She proactively seeks feedback from her team, fostering an environment of open communication and continuous improvement. She values team building and approaches problem-solving strategically to drive effective solutions. Brandi prioritizes customer satisfaction and ensures that her team is customer focused. Moreover, she actively cultivates a positive culture within not only the production team but the entire company, promoting collaboration and a supportive work environment.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? Being a part of a team that builds a product starting from raw material to a completed product ready to deliver to a customer is an extremely rewarding experience. As Production Manager, one of my favorite activities is supporting my team through process improvements. This means constantly challenging the status quo as we look to make their jobs safer, easier, faster, & less stressful. We also challenge our processes to see what is working, what is slowing us down, and to find waste in the process. I am able to support my team of welders, fabricators, assemblers, the process experts, through continuous improvement activities that improve our processes. The improvements ultimately result in a better product reaching our customers. One of my favorite sayings I ask my team is, “What can we do differently today than we did yesterday, to make tomorrow better?”

Dean Fandrich Jr
Production Supervisor - Summers Manufacturing
Devils Lake

Years in MFG: 22

FROM THE NOMINATOR

Why is Dean awesome: Manufacturing is a large umbrella and you need someone that knows how to plan and execute on many levels as well as different areas to be effective. Through hard work, commitment to the organization, and willingness and ability to take on new challenges, DJ has worked his way up in the company, starting with part-time summer positions working his way into supervisory roles. He looks for new opportunities to improve production, whether it be changes to design, processes, or systems and works across departments to execute on those ideas. His knowledge of the systems and organization make him very effective at identifying potential obstacles, helping to ensure all factors are considered when implementing new products and processes. DJ is a great example how hard work and dedication can provide opportunities for personal and professional growth for the past 22 years with Summers Manufacturing.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? I enjoy the team aspect, whether it is myself working with another person, a department or the whole factory. I feel that teamwork is one of the most important things to make a manufacturing factory successful.  

Adeng Deng
Production Associate - Cardinal IG
Fargo

Years in MFG: 2

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Adeng awesome: Adeng brings way more than production to Cardinal.  Her presence and attitude just takes the team to another level. Adeng works between 8-10 hours at night, while during the day taking care of 4 kiddos on her own. We need more people leading by examples. Knowing how hard she works outside of work as a single mother and yet able to put in the hours at Cardinal with a positive attitude and quality of work is just impressive.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? I like It here because I like the people I work with. There’s a lot of interesting things I have learned that I didn’t know before I worked here.

Yevgeniy Patselov
Welder 3 - TrueNorth Steel
Fargo

Years in MFG: 44

FROM THE NOMINATOR
Why is Geniy awesome: Geniy started welding when he was 16 years old in Azerbaijan, then moved to Tula, Russia, and worked as a pipe welder for about six years before moving to Fargo in the spring of 1996. Geniy has been building America ever since! He welded Structural Steel products at TrueNorth Steel for 25 years. He recently moved to TrueNorth Steel's West Fargo facility to bring his expertise to the company's bridge manufacturing division. Geniy shows up to each shift with a lit cigar, a cup of coffee, and a smile on his face. He brings positivity and energy to the bridge team, and his welding skills are unparalleled. If Geniy's title wasn't "Welder 3" he could be more aptly called a well-rounded "Weld fusion Technician." His weld work is not just clean or textbook, his weld work is art. Geniy aims for perfection on every joint he welds. The quality of his work and his ongoing dedication to his team and the company are an inspiration. In recent years he has also served as a mentor to new hires who are grateful to be taught by someone of his skill and talent level. Geniy is a valued team member of TrueNorth Steel, and he has left his mark by crafting buildings and bridges across North Dakota and America. Yevgeniy's story is the epitome of the American Dream.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What do you like about working in the manufacturing industry? I enjoy the challenges of building big structures from bridges to skyscrapers.