18.5_OL FULL MAG

CHEVROLET SILVERADO • PROFILE

the most torque of any engine in its class). No
other competitor features these three technolo-
gies standard on every engine. And it’s all based
on that original 1955 engine block.”

Chevy Loyalty owners. And that someone buys Chevy trucks
because his father always bought Chevys, as did
Such longevity inspires long-term loyalty. In- his father’s father.”
deed, Wilkinson says truck owners tend to be
brand devotees down through the generations. That said, truck buyers can be as tough
“It’s not just that someone is a Chevy guy,” as their vehicles. Regardless of what’s on the
he says, “but that entire families are Chevy nameplate, they are, as Wilkinson puts it, both
highly knowledgeable and highly emotional
when it comes to trucks.

“Trucks are used primarily for commercial
and recreational use. While there is a small lux-
ury end segment, for the most part our custom-
ers are business people who are stretching their
budgets to get a vehicle they need for everyday
use in rugged environments. And every day is
every day. The truck they are using for work
five, six days a week is the same vehicle they use
on their weekends to go hunting or fishing, to
tow a boat or a camper. And they expect that
vehicle to work just as well after 200,000 miles
or so as the day they bought it,” he says. “Our
customers know exactly what they want and
our job is to provide the exact vehicle that will
do it for them.”

Which is where the Silverado comes in.

Pictured left: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ
Z71 on location;

above: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ
Z71 with Custom Sport special edition
package.

INDUSTRY TODAY 49

PROFILE • CHEVROLET SILVERADO

GOLDEN GATE AIR FREIGHT Originally a trim level for its predecessor plat-
form, the Chevrolet C/K, it was launched in
Your partner for worldwide freight since 1982 1999 as a light duty truck, and later developed
offering a PERSONALIZED QUALITY SERVICE heavy-duty models. Silverado is manufactured
We are dedicated to serving the specific needs of our customers: at various Chevrolet plants in Arlington, Texas,
• A complete network of pick-up and delivery across the Flint, Mich., and Roanoke, Indiana, as well as
Continental United States and Puerto Rico; Silao, Mexico. Full-size models are primarily
• A range of international services including full documentation, sold in North America and Mexico; there’s also
crating and packing and customs clearance; a small market in the Middle East. “The Silver-
• An ocean service from consolidation to full container loads. ado is too high to get into and too expensive for
the global market,” Wilkinson says. “Mid-sized
Contact us for further information trucks, such as the Chevy Colorado, are better
Nationwide Toll Free - (800)638-6638 fits to other parts of the world such as Africa,
Local - (510)785-5720 / Fax - (510)786-3277
email - [email protected] / www.ggaf.com Pictured: 2015 Silverado 1500 with the
available 6.2L Ecotec3 V-8 and 8-speed
50 INDUSTRY TODAY automatic transmission finished first in the
2015 PickupTrucks.com Light-Duty Challenge.

CHEVROLET SILVERADO • PROFILE

SILVERADO AT A GLANCE

The 2015 Silverado is offered in four trim levels for its Z71 and High Country models, in regular cab, dou-
ble cab and crew cab body styles, all offered with 4-wheel drive, providing a wide range of well-equipped
trucks offering premium features, customized to individual customer needs. New features in 2015 include:

• Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission (6.2L V-8 models);

• 12,000-pound max trailering capacity option;

• Enhanced Chevrolet MyLink with Text Messaging Alerts and Siri Eyes Free capabilities;

• OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot (3GB/three-month data trial);

• Up-level trailering mirrors with back-up lighting;

• Argent grille with chrome surround (on LTZ models with the Z71 package);

• Spray-on bed line now offered on all models;

• USB port added to upper glove box on LT models with 40/20/40 front bench seat;

• Exterior colors: Rain Forrest Metallic, Deep Ocean Blue Metallic, Sunrise Metallic (limited availability)
and Pewter Metallic (limited availability).

the Middle East, South America and Asia.” Regardless of what trim package and op-
Silverado is sold both through fleet and tions customers prefer, the primary concern of
customers is durability. Wilkinson says that,
dealer channels. “We offer everything from a “A truck customer typically holds onto their
very basic pickup all the way to a luxury class, vehicle for a long time. And they use it in hard
although that’s more the market for our sister conditions, for towing, for hauling, for off road.
GM Sierra truck. Most of our sales fall some- In fact, about two-third of the trucks we sell
where in-between.”

2014 marked the third generation of the Silverado

platform. 2015 introduced numerous refinements

including a number of advanced in-vehicle communi-

cations capabilities, in particular a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Next year, in 2016, Chevy is adding Apple CarPlay

and Google Maps as additional technologies.

INDUSTRY TODAY 51

PROFILE • CHEVROLET SILVERADO

are 4-wheel drive. That’s why Silverado owners recreation tend to blur. A large portion of our
appreciate our commitment to a high-strength customers are small businesspeople who need
roll-formed steel frame. There’s a place for a truck for their work. At the same time, they
aluminum to help make a vehicle lighter and need a truck for weekends when they go camp-
more fuel efficient, but it’s not in the frame of ing or boating on the lake. A truck isn’t just a
a hard working vehicle that is frequently driven vehicle for our customers, it’s part of their iden-
in rural areas with rough roads.” tity. The Silverado helps customers realize their
ambitions on the job, and then helps them get
He adds that, “A truck is both a tool and a where they like to go to relax and enjoy the
lifestyle. Which is why the distinction between fruits of their labor.”
vehicles used for work and vehicles used for

Pictured: the interior of the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado High Country features an exclusive
saddle brown interior, with authentic materials throughout. Features include heated and
cooled perfo-rated premium leather front bucket seats with High Country logos on the
headrests, Chevrolet MyLink connectivity with an 8-inch touch screen, Bose premium audio
and front and rear park assist.

52 INDUSTRY TODAY

CHEVROLET SILVERADO • PROFILE

Chevy’s 1955 small block V8 engine serves as the
fundamental model that continues to drive today’s

trucks, albeit with an assortment of modern
technologies. It remains the most popular engine in

motor sports as well as for commercial use.

What’s up for 2016 and Beyond in 2016, Chevy is adding Apple CarPlay and
Google Maps as additional technologies.
2014 marked the third generation of
the Silverado platform. 2015 introduced “Truck owners tend to be conservative, by
numerous refinements including a number of which I don’t mean politics so much as that
advanced in-vehicle communications capabil- they tend to stick to basics,” Wilkinson says.
ities, in particular a Wi-Fi hotspot. Next year, “So you might think that these kind of so-called

INDUSTRY TODAY 53

PROFILE • CHEVROLET SILVERADO

infotainment systems are more something for out on a job and instead of having to use their
Millennials and cars in cute colors than your phone to call in and order or get some informa-
average truck driver. Actually, though, they are tion, they can just do it more efficiently from a
the most eager and earlier adopters. Again, it’s laptop or tablet. And integrating Google Maps
because these are work vehicles. People love into the dashboard is not only convenient for
the mobile Wi-Fi because this way they can be them to find a work site, it’s also great for them
to know where they are when they’re off-road
Pictured: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Rally looking for a camp site. It’s not about being
Edi-tion. able to get on Facebook, it’s about having the

54 INDUSTRY TODAY

CHEVROLET SILVERADO • PROFILE

modern tools you need to run your business. active fuel management technology is just one
That you’re able to stream Spotify, as well, example. Also, while you wouldn’t think this
makes riding out to the job all the more plea- would apply to a truck, we do a lot of wind
surable.” tunnel studies to improve vehicle aerodynam-
ics. We also spend a lot of time listening to our
Looking down the road, how will the Silver- customers, what they’re looking for in a truck
ado and trucks in general continue to evolve. that we can provide. In fact the Silverado
“Although trucks have different regulatory redesign was intended to address customer
standards to satisfy, just like cars we’re always needs for a better powertrain and more
looking at ways to improve fuel economy. Our

INDUSTRY TODAY 55

PROFILE • CHEVROLET SILVERADO

efficient transmission.” fuel economy. Maybe in 10 or 20 years, but
While there have been some experimen- we’re not looking in that direction for the
immediate future.”
tations with hybrid engines, Wilkinson says,
“Our customers weren’t really interested, And, sometimes, you never know. “When
and it turned out that hybrids in trucks really the crew cab came out with four doors and a
didn’t really achieve any sufficient gains in back seat, people thought it was an extrava-

56 INDUSTRY TODAY

CHEVROLET SILVERADO • PROFILE

gance or a gimmick, it wasn’t a ‘real’ truck” sold are crew cabs.”
Wilkinson says. “But, you know, that extra He adds, “Truck owners are a special breed
space in the back proved to provide some valu-
able real estate, for people or cargo. You can go and we think that the Silverado is just the spe-
to work and still pick up the kids from school cial breed that a truck owner wants to drive,
on the way home. Today, two-thirds of trucks with the capabilities they need for both work
and for pleasure.”

INDUSTRY TODAY 57

PROFILE • JAY INDUSTRIES

Jay Industries is a manufacturer whose roots
stretch all the way back to 1917, evolving over the
years to become one of North America’s premium
industrial suppliers to its automotive industry
and beyond. In this article we take a specific look
at their plastics division, and the factors behind
their consistent growth and success in the arena.
Josh Taylor, division manager and great grand-
son of the company’s founder, Glen Taylor, sits
down to discuss the precision and quality behind
each and every one of their plastic components,
and how a vertically-integrated approach allows
them to continuously differentiate themselves
amongst a crowded and competitive market. Steve
Engelhardt reports.

hen looking back on the history of
Jay Industries, there are clear mo-
ments in its past that defined and
influenced the current identity it enjoys today.
The first of such came in 1917, when the com-
pany was initially founded by Glen Taylor in
Mansfield, Ohio, under the name Taylor Dise
Company. “At the time, they were making radi-
ant gas heaters for local markets in the area, and

58 INDUSTRY TODAY

JAY INDUSTRIES • PROFILE

INDUSTRY TODAY 59

PROFILE • JAY INDUSTRIES

this business allowed us to really become skilled For the next 40 years the company was run
in manufacturing and processing metal,” says by Glen and his son Dick, who eventually de-
Taylor, adding, “In fact, so much so, that eleven cided that, given the company’s manufactur-
years later the company expanded its offering ing experience and hard-working mentality it
into other products and formally changed its had developed up to this point, the potential
name to Taylor Metal Products in 1928.” to expand the business even more was too great
to pass up. “However, instead of investing in
Pictured (left to right): Glen Taylor, Dick another metal facility, my grandfather, see-
Taylor and Rick Taylor. ing the rapid emergence of plastics within the

Thoma Technologies, a key business partner with Jay Thoma Technologies, Inc.
Industries, together, demonstrates a decisive advantage in 8054 Frank Ave, NW North Canton, OH 44720
production capability with various processes from thin film
deposition to robotic painting of parts. [email protected] / 330-497-2066
www.thomacompanies.com
Thoma Technologies has an integrated controls approach
for Hardware, Software, and People. As a team member, we
remain dynamic from design through start-up. This allows for
more innovation and "on the fly" changes which has resulted
in a higher output, increased profits and ease of use.

Our goal is to provide the most comprehensive control system
that is unified and integrated to the point where operation is
simple, effective, and flexible to keep up with the demands of
production and changes throughout the system lifecycle.

If flexibility, unified controls, higher production and lower
installation cost interests you, contact Thoma Technologies.

60 INDUSTRY TODAY

Industry Solutions for the Vacuum Thin-film Coating of Three-dimensional Parts

BUHLER Leybold Optics provides machinery and vacuum coating processes for 3D parts which are
used in the automotive, interior lighting, 3C (computer, communication, consumer electronics) and
cosmetics packaging industries.

We offer a range of products:

CompactMet - Flexible Evaporation System
A high-vacuum metalizing system designed for the continuous production of
complex plastic, metal, glass and ceramic substrates. Used in the automotive industry
the system offers fast cycle time, unmatched reliability and productivity with easy and
fast installation, minimum maintenance requirements and if required can be easily
relocated.

DynaLine – High Throughput Sputter System
A series designed for coating reflectors, bezels and other parts with complex 3D
geometries. Also used in the automotive industry the machine can be fully integrated
into automated conveyor systems and adapted to customer’s needs.

PylonMet – Color Vacuum Sputter System
Combining high throughput with excellent coating results this machine is of
particular interest to industries with demanding requirements. Used in various
applications including:

– Reflectors for automotive and vehicle lighting
– Reflectors for interior and exterior lighting
– Decorative coatings
– Color coatings
– Semi-transparent layer coatings
– Mirror coatings

AluMet 1800V – Productive Evaporation System
Coats even the most complex parts while meeting exact precise demands regarding quality and flexibility. Uses minimum floor space, has short cycle times and a
low production cost. Used in reflectors for automotive and vehicle lighting, reflectors for interior and exterior lighting and decorative coatings for parts like perfume
bottles and designer jewelry.

Atalanta – Special Application System
A batch system designed to meet the individual market’s requirement for easy-to-clean coatings in mass production. Used for hydrophobic layer process for
anit-fingerprint application. Can be applied to complex plastic, metal, glass and ceramic.

|Leybold Optics USA, Inc. |T: (919) 657-7100 email: [email protected]

PROFILE • JAY INDUSTRIES

automotive industry during this time, decided Plastics—grew itself so much over the next 20
to invest in a molding facility to begin produc- years that it eventually became its own entity
ing plastic parts to meet such needs.” in 1989, and six years later evolved into Jay
Industries to incorporate the six different divi-
Molding a Business sions within the company,” says Taylor, whose

It turned out to be quite the prudent deci- Josh Taylor, Division Manager and Great
sion, as the plastics division—known as Jay Grandson of the Company’s Founder.

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62 INDUSTRY TODAY

JAY INDUSTRIES • PROFILE

PRODUCTS IN FOCUS automotive industry—one of the most de-
manding markets in the world—on an annual
Listed below are a number of the automotive basis.
products Jay Plastics manufactures, and the OEM
models they’re tied to: Maintaining their presence in Mansfield, Jay
Plastics today operates out of a facility that is
• Ford Escape high Interior; capable of performing raw material develop-
ment, injection molding, coating, and assem-
• Nissan Maxima high gloss Interior; bly of products. “We have 35 injection molders
under our roof, ten of which are bulk molding
• Jeep Cherokee Interior; compound (BMC) thermoset presses ranging
from 200-400 tons used to make reflectors for
• Honda Civic / Accord / CRV forward & forward lighting,” he says, adding, “The rest of
rear lighting; them are thermoplastic molding presses, whose
capacities range from 150 tons to 1,250 tons.”
• F150 / F250 Headlights;
With respect to their coating services, Jay
• Explorer Headlights;

• Nissan Titan Headlights.

father Rick currently runs the company as
CEO, making Jay a fourth generation, fami-
ly-owned business as it stands here in 2015.

It was during these last 20 years that the
company also made the decision to become
vertically integrated, allowing them full con-
trol over their material and production pro-
cesses from the very beginning of the job to the
end. “Quality is a huge part of our identity, and
being able to control the resin we buy along
with the presence of compounding facilities
amongst other capabilities is key to that,” says
Taylor, adding, “We can provide our customers
with a comprehensive service that many others
simply can’t offer.”

Comprehensive Service

But let’s take a closer look at just how im-
pressive the company’s commitment to qual-
ity and process efficiency is, and how they’re
able to effectively service the North American

INDUSTRY TODAY 63

PROFILE • JAY INDUSTRIES

Plastics possesses four state-of-the-art paint spray equipment,” says Taylor, adding, “We
lines with conventional oven and infrared ca- also have 7 metallization lines which supports
pabilities. “All four lines can apply 1k and 2k automotive lighting products. These PVD
paint with fully automated delivery and robotic (Physical Vapor Deposition) lines can also pro-
vide environmentally friendly alternatives to
Pictured: above: Thermoset (BMC) molding chrome plating on interior products and offer
department.

64 INDUSTRY TODAY

JAY INDUSTRIES • PROFILE

a wider range of appearances.” He continues, here, all under one roof!”
saying that a single mold at Jay Plastics can As further evidence of this commitment to
now produce all of the desired finishes rather
than multiple tools using different materials for the present and future of their markets, Taylor
the various coating processes which is typically says that in response to paint and equipment
done by more than one supplier. “We can do it taking on a more “high-end” nature within
the interiors of automotives, the company has

INDUSTRY TODAY 65

PROFILE • JAY INDUSTRIES

66 INDUSTRY TODAY

JAY INDUSTRIES • PROFILE

“Supporting our quality and efficiency is the fact that
our company leaders and overall workforce bring an
inherent passion and dedication to finishing the job

each and every day.”

recently renovated three of their paint lines to their impressive, thorough manufacturing
meet the emerging engineering trends from the presence, but another part of their culture
industry’s OEM’s and is in the final stages of is equally important to their sustained suc-
building a 13,000-square-foot addition for the cess as a company. “Supporting our quality
additional capital equipment this year. and efficiency is the fact that our company
leaders and overall workforce bring an inher-
Customer Commitment ent passion and dedication to finishing the

Jay Plastics’ ability to meet and exceed the Pictured: Thermoplastic molding presses.
needs of their customers largely stems from

INDUSTRY TODAY 67

PROFILE • JAY INDUSTRIES

job each and every day,” says Taylor. In fact, year,” says Taylor, adding, “Running this busi-
remember his grandfather, Dick, son of the ness is really a pleasure for all of us, and we
original founder? “My grandfather Dick is 99 see the same attitude reflected in our employees
years old this year, and while his age has long on the shop floor as well, which is extremely
permitted him a well-earned retirement, he still beneficial to the company’s culture and overall
churns out 40-hour work weeks each and every health.”

Pictured: Engineering department & product Hard work and quality typically go hand-
design support. in-hand, but Jay Plastics has made it a bit of

68 INDUSTRY TODAY

JAY INDUSTRIES • PROFILE

“Quality is a huge
part of our identity, and
being able to control the
resin we buy along with

the presence of
compounding facilities

amongst other
capabilities is key

to that.”

a standard for their customers, no matter the supporting one of their larger programs—the
situation. Taylor recalls back during the 2008- GMT900—and basically turn-keying it as fast
2009 economic collapse when a large automo- as possible for them,” he says.
tive supplier from Canada instantly went out of
business, leaving a huge void in service for one Jay Plastics went right to work, driving up to
of its chief partners, General Motors. “We re- Canada to retrieve nearly two dozen molds and
ceived a phone call from GM soon after, asking shipping them back down to their facility in
us if we would be capable of and interested in Mansfield within two days of their initial phone
call with GM. “We were up and running and
shipping product back out to them within two
weeks, which really helped them avoid having
to shut down additional plants as well, some-
thing they were extremely appreciative of.”

It’s this kind of complete package of business
that has led to Jay Plastics enjoying the strong
reputation and increasingly bigger market share
it’s achieving today. “We are a fully-integrated
molded and finisher of automotive interiors
and we’re expanding beyond that as well, in-
cluding the appliance industry,” says Taylor,
adding, “But none of this is possible without
our longstanding culture of quality and reliabil-
ity or the workforce which ultimately makes
such a reality.”

INDUSTRY TODAY 69

PROFILE • NAUTIQUE BOATS

70 INDUSTRY TODAY

NAUTIQUE BOATS • PROFILE

The boating world is an
ever-evolving industry, whether
it be through the quality of their
craft or the ways people use them; as such, those
in the business of designing and manufacturing
boats must be experienced, innovative, and
committed to the end user. For the last 90 years,
Nautique Boat Company has taken this formula
and brought it to a whole different level, producing
some of the world’s most renowned and
cutting-edge ski and wake boats out of their
headquarters in Orlando, Fla. Leading Nau-
tique today is Greg Meloon, company president
and great-grandson of its original founder, W.C.
Meloon. In a conversation with Industry Today,
he talks about why the Nautique brand has such a
strong and reputable presence in the global boating
market, and expands upon how a long-fostered
corporate philosophy centered on quality and
community responsibility fuels their continued
success each year. Steve Engelhardt reports.

INDUSTRY TODAY 71

PROFILE • NAUTIQUE BOATS

he summer is in full swing, and as a try,” says Meloon, “We design, develop and
result, millions of people around the build boats that redefine the expectations of the
United States will be flocking to their most demanding watersports enthusiasts. Our
closest beaches and lakes to soak up some sun products are about fulfilling dreams and living a
and relax in the heat. Laying out on the sand lifestyle that identifies our family of customers.”
is fine, but those looking to take things to an-
other level—be it for either leisure or entertain- Engineered Performance
ment—will be out in a boat, bobbing or racing
along the water’s surface, hopefully doing so in Let’s talk about performance. Meloon says that
a Nautique Boats-designed ski or wake boat. the development team works painstakingly to
That’s because Nautique models are recog- deliver products that set the industry standards
nized as some of the most high-performing and for performance while balancing the value prop-
highly-engineered watersports boats available, osition that customers demand. “As with most
as the company’s commitment to both comfort performance products, our price is a resulting
and technology give users the total package that function of the innovative engineering that goes
many look for. “The Team at Nautique Boat into each and every one of our models,” he says,
Company is driven to be the best in the indus- adding, “Our specialty relates to performance in
the driver’s seat as well as what goes on behind

Proven Performance Guaranteed

ACME Marine produces propellers that are engineered, manufactured,
inspected and shipped directly from our U.S. QS-9000 facilities. With
more than seven decades of manufacturing experience redefining
smoothness and performance our fully CNC machined propellers offer
unrivaled consistency, power and efficiency to ensure:

• Quicker plane times
• Improved speeds
• Lower fuel consumption
• Improved durability
• Superior quality

Box-to-boat ready we offer a range of propeller sizes
as well as a fully serviced repair facility.

Contact us for the perfect propeller for your boat!

PO Box 1117, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Ph. 888.661.2263 or 231.796.2874 / Fax: 231.592.0471
www.acmemarine.com

72 INDUSTRY TODAY

NAUTIQUE BOATS • PROFILE

INDUSTRY TODAY 73

PROFILE • NAUTIQUE BOATS

74 INDUSTRY TODAY

NAUTIQUE BOATS • PROFILE

the boat—We’re the epitome of what people in “The G-Series has revolutionized the indus-
the watersports market desire.” try with respect to how wakeboarding and wake
surfing are enjoyed by both world-class athletes
Nautique offers 8 different models of boats and first-time riders,” he says, adding, “Be-
from the world renowned Ski Nautique to the tween the effortless handling, smooth ride, and
Super Air Nautique G-Series with options to perfect wakes they create, Nautique boats have
meet every family’s needs in between. Meloon rapidly become the destination for progression
says that while the Ski Nautique has a legacy with every rider in the world looking to push
in waterskiing that has defined our brand for the limits of possibility.”
decades, our company continues to evolve
with the changing demands of the market Enhancing the sport-specific performance of
including the popularity of wakeboarding and the Super Air Nautique boats is the Nautique
wake surfing—an activity that has recently Surf System (NSS), which utilizes WAVE-
exploded across lakes and coastal waterways PLATE® technology to create a fully custom-
around the world. izable, world-class surf wave that has led to
Nautique becoming the official towboat of the
Pictured: G25 Running Model; U.S. National Wakesurfing championships.
“The introduction of NSS has improved our
below: G25 Profile Starboard.

Marine Fasteners is the leading supplier of
stainless steel fasteners to marine, industrial

and construction-related industries.

We have been a strategic partner with
Nautique Boats since 1985. Marine

Fasteners wants to congratulate them
on their many years of positive impact in

our community and beyond.

Congratulations!

1 (800) U-MARINE
www.marfas.com

INDUSTRY TODAY 75

PROFILE • NAUTIQUE BOATS

“Between the effortless handling, smooth ride, and
perfect wakes it creates, these models have rapidly
become the destination for progression with every rider
in the world looking to push the limits of possibility.”

customer’s experience with their Nautique. behind the boat. Through the interface of the
With the simple touch of a button, the driver Pebble Smart Watch and the Nautique Surf Se-
can effortlessly transition the boat from wake- lect App, the surfer can now control the cus-
boarding to wake surfing in seconds,” explained tomization of the wave along with speed and
Meloon. stereo settings.

This technology allows for wave customiza- Orlando Expansion
tion with variable intensity settings that adjust
wave steepness and shape by controlling exactly The fostering and continuous development of
how much the WAVEPLATE is engaged. But cutting-edge products is a core commitment
as innovators, Nautique did not stop there. On at Nautique, and although the company has
2016 models, they have introduced the ability two private lakes for development and testing
for the surfer to control their experience from in addition to 217,000-square-feet of man-

76 INDUSTRY TODAY

NAUTIQUE BOATS • PROFILE

ufacturing floor space in place already, they at a pace greater than the market. When com-
recently decided that in the face of growing bined with the industry’s positive trend and
demand amidst a flourishing industry, more our strong reputation within such, it made
space would be needed. “In June we an- perfect sense to expand so that we can con-
nounced an expansion of our headquarters and tinue to increase our market presence.” And
manufacturing facility in Orlando, which will for a company that also does business in more
ultimately provide our growing team with the than 60 countries around the world, the facil-
necessary resources to continue the innovation ity expansion provides additional opportunity
of our products and leading manufacturing for Nautique’s potential growth going forward.
processes,” Meloon says.
Between a manufacturing presence that
The investment, which totals $8 million, has all the necessary resources and processes
is largely in response to the North American in place and then some, and the subsequent
towboat industry growing by 14.5 percent in
2014, following the 11 percent increase seen in
2013. “Over these last two years our innova-
tive new products have propelled our growth

Pictured left: Nautique Surf System with
WAVEPLATE;

above: G23 Running Model and Cockpit.

INDUSTRY TODAY 77

PROFILE • NAUTIQUE BOATS

development of world-class boats that provide
a dynamic, unmatched level of performance,
there’s a lot to admire and respect when look-
ing at Nautique Boats from a bird’s-eye point
of view. And yet, perhaps the most impressive
aspect of the company isn’t found under the
roofs of their facilities or inside the frames of
their boats, but rather within the hearts and
minds of the people that work for and represent
the company’s name.

Nautique Cares

In 2007, Nautique launched Nautique Cares,
an organizational initiative sponsored and run
solely by the employees at Nautique. “Nau-
tique Cares is our recognition that life isn’t
just about making boats, serving as an internal
and external focus on how we can improve our
culture as a company and use it to benefit the

Pictured: Super Air Nautique G23;
below: G23 Specs.

78 INDUSTRY TODAY

NAUTIQUE BOATS • PROFILE

BEST BELOW THE WATERLINE

Celebrating over 50 years in the
marine industry, Buck Algonquin is
the premier manufacturer of quality

marine hardware.

photo courtesy of Nautique

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PROFILE • NAUTIQUE BOATS

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NAUTIQUE BOATS • PROFILE

AT A GLANCE: NAUTIQUE SURF SYSTEM

The Nautique Surf System (NSS) is a revolutionary piece of technology
that works in three ways:

Complete Customization: The NSS is an integrated system that works in conjunction with the
WAVEPLATE® to allow surfers the ability to create a wave on either side of the boat instantly without
the need to offload ballast or people. When deployed, the WAVEPLATE extends outward and down from
the transom intercepting and redirecting the flow of water to clean up the opposite wake and form a surf
wave like no other boat. This not only gives you the ability to form a wave on either side instantly, but
also allows for wave customization with variable intensity settings that adjust wave steepness and shape
by controlling exactly how much the plate is engaged.

Integrated Control: Controlling the NSS is the simple press of a button. Integrated into our
Nautique LINC system, users have the ability to customize their settings on the fly and save them in a
personalized profile that stores and automatically engages your preferred speed, ballast settings, and
WAVEPLATE position.

Surf Select Function: Nautique puts control into the hands of the surfer with the Nautique Surf
Switch for one-touch transfers exactly when the surfer desires. For total customization, the Surf Select app
for the Pebble™ Watch features the ability to display and control the ZeroOff Speed Control, NSS, stereo
volume and track while allowing surfers to transfer the wave instantly or at a three-second countdown.
Surf Select is the only system on the market with positive feedback from the helm displayed right on your
watch keeping your current settings in view at all times.

lives of those all around the world.” “However, the trips themselves are extremely
Beginning with a trip to Tecate, Mexico in rewarding, and we all end up coming back
from them with invaluable perspectives and
2007, where a team of Nautique employees experiences on life, which ultimately strength-
built a new home for a family of seven, the ens our core as a company.”
organization has since increased its frequency
of trips and international reach, with impacted In fact, he says one of the most memorable
locations including Nicaragua, Guatemala, trips was when Nautique travelled to India in
Haiti, India, El Salvador and various parts of 2013 to witness upfront the work and impact
Africa as of 2015. “Our employees—200 of of As Our Own, a worldwide organization
which have now participated in the program— dedicated to rescuing individuals from human
contribute their vacation time to go on these trafficking. “Following this trip, we actually
trips, which says a lot about the type of per- built a customized Nautique G21 in the offi-
son who works at Nautique,” he says, adding, cial red color of As Our Own,” Meloon says,

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PROFILE • NAUTIQUE BOATS

“Our specialty relates to
performance in the

driver’s seat as well as what goes
on behind the boat—We’re the
epitome of what people in the

watersports market want.”

adding, “The boat was put up for auction, with which is currently valued on the company’s
all of the proceeds going directly to As Our website at a starting price of $114,000—were
Own’s efforts towards fighting what is a tragic, provided free of charge by Nautique’s chain of
yet unfortunately highly prevalent issue in this vendors. “It was extremely gratifying to see our
world.” valued vendors, once hearing about the boat’s
end destination, take it upon themselves to do-
Making the donation even more special was nate critical components like an engine, tower
the fact that many of the parts inside the boat—

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NAUTIQUE BOATS • PROFILE

or underwater gear, for the greater good and other. “Building a culture of people who care
benefit of those living in a very dark place.” about the people and world around them is a
core pillar of our success here at Nautique Boat
The existence of Nautique Cares and the Company.”
widespread success it has had thus far further
highlights the company’s overall commitment To learn more about Nautique Boat Com-
and dedication to each and every one of their pany and their world renowned boats: visit
partnerships, whether it be business-related or them at www.nautique.com

INDUSTRY TODAY 83

PROFILE • RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS

84 INDUSTRY TODAY

RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS • PROFILE

t’s been an interesting progression for
Raven Engineered Films, who originally
began primarily in the agricultural arena,
supplying grain and silage covers to local mar-
kets in the United States. Today, however, they
have evolved their films and covers to appeal
to a much more diverse set of customers, with
demand pouring in a number of other sectors
as well, including the energy, construction, en-
vironmental, and industrial markets in North
America. “Because of the customizability and
quality of our film products, we have been able
to not only impact a diverse set of markets, but
also cater to a number of specific needs that
emerge within them as well,” Stoebner says.
With a manufacturing presence that
spans across four locations and totals over
600,000-square-feet in plant space, Raven has
not only has the extensive industry experience
needed to succeed in today’s fast-changing
world, but the material and process capacity
to back it up. “We have two facilities in Sioux
Falls, S.D., another in Madison, S.D., and then

Founded in 1956, Raven Engineered Films has spent the
past 50-plus years building its reputation across North America
and beyond as a leading producer and supplier of high-quality flexible
films and sheeting to a variety of industries. 2015 looks to be a critical
year for the South Dakota-based manufacturer, as a number of new
innovative product developments and overall growth have the company
ready to take itself to a new level. Tom Stoebner, Business Development
Manager, sits down to talks about the exciting present and future of his

company. Steve Engelhardt reports.

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PROFILE • RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS

FOR GEOMEMBRANE
APPLICATIONS

Under-slab
vapor intrusion membranes
Radon, CH4

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RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS • PROFILE

a fourth down south in Midland, Texas,” he ture and where the market is heading,” Stoeb-
says, adding, “Each of our plants contain state- ner says, adding, “If we see an opportunity that
of-the-art equipment, including blown and cast will ultimately benefit us going forward, we will
film and sheeting, lamination and coating, con- go after it.” But growth through acquisition is
version capabilities, and a remarkable test and only a part of it, as Raven relies on a highly
development facility.” innovative internal operation to continuously
provide new solutions for their customers.
Strategic Approach
In fact, the company has a full-service tech-
The company’s footprint looks the way it does nology solutions center in Sioux Falls, a critical
partly because of their $48 million acquisition part of their ability to not only develop new
of Integra Plastics last November, bringing en- products, but also create custom solutions in
hanced fabrication and conversion capabilities a way that no other company like them can.
to the company. “One of our main focuses at “At Raven, we provide integrated solutions
Raven is to always be thinking about the fu- for seamless product development, from con-
ceptual ideas through full-scale production,
Pictured: Agricultural - FeedFresh Silage Cover; with the manufacturing capacity to support

below: Energy - Rufco Sludge Bed Liner.

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PROFILE • RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS

long-range projections that enable maximum ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene vinyl alcohol,
throughput efficiencies,” says Stoebner. thermoplastic polyolefin, and nylon-based res-
ins,” he says.
Looking inside, the technology center houses
two state-of-the-art pilot extrusion lines and all The technology center is the source of Ra-
development is done under an ISO 9001 certi- ven’s innovation and sustainability, and its
fied management system. “Quality is key when worth was proven again most recently when
creating added-value in our products, and we
do this by utilizing a wide range of prime raw Pictured: Plant - 7-layer Barrier Extrusion Line;
materials and additives, including polyethylene,
right-top to bottom: Energy - Oilfield Pit Liner,
Grain Covers, Conkure Wet Curing Blanket.

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RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS • PROFILE

the company announced an entire new line of “Because of the customizability
products in May for the energy and environ- and quality of our film products,
mental markets. “We are excited to introduce
our HydraFlex™ Containment Solutions line, we have been able to not only
which includes several targeted geomembranes impact a diverse set of markets,
designed for specific project attributes,” Stoeb- but also cater to a number of
ner says, adding, “We conducted thorough specific needs that emerge within
market analysis through customer experiences
to develop this line, and found exactly what our them as well.”

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PROFILE • RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS

customers need to increase their overall project The HydraFlex™ Series, or H-Series materi-
value.” als, are co-extruded geomembranes consisting
of outer layers of virgin grade linear-low density
Flexing Innovation polyethylene with an inner core of virgin and
select reprocessed resins. The membranes are
There are three products that make up the new stabilized with carbon black and antioxidants
HydraFlex™ line: HydraFlex™, HydraFlex™ designed as an economical solution for near-to-
Pro, and HydraFlex™ Ultra. mid-term applications. “The premium quality
of LLDPE contained in the H-Series line offers
Pictured: Environmental - Dura-Skrim K-Series exceptional project value by providing for ease
Waste Lagoon; of welding along with high impact strength and
below: Industrial - DuraSkrim Railcar Covers; tear resistance,” Stoebner says.
right: Construction - DuraSkrim Enclosure Film.
With the HydraFlex™ Pro Series, or HP-Se-
ries, customers will receive geomembranes that
are co-extruded linear low-density polyethylene
developed for applications requiring enhanced
flexibility along with a combination of high
tensile strength and impact resistance. The ad-
ditive package in the series includes fine partial
carbon black on one side for extremely effec-
tive protection from UV radiation and thermal

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RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS • PROFILE

degradation, while the gray color on the oppo- tank lining systems, as well as earthen pit and
site side minimizes thermal expansion as well pond linings.”
as providing cooler surface characteristics. “The
HydraFlex™ Pro is engineered with ultra-low Finally, there’s the HydraFlex™ Ultra Series,
modulus characteristics to resist pinholes and or the HU-Series. HU-Series geomembranes
flex cracks during installation,” Stoebner says, are produced with very flexible linear low-den-
continuing, “These elements are critical for the sity polyethylene resin, in order to provide
pliability necessary in reliable above-the-ground exceptional elongation, tensile, and impact
strengths. Formulated to meet or exceed the

INDUSTRY TODAY 91

PROFILE • RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS

“We conducted thorough
market analysis through
customer experiences to
develop this line, and found
exactly what our customers need
to increase their overall

project value.”

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RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS • PROFILE

extensive requirements of GRI-GM17 Standard
Specification for geomembranes, the HU-Series
is recommended for use in containment appli-
cations requiring excellent outdoor longevity,
chemical resistance, and extraordinary durabil-
ity—including in cold weather environments.
“Designed for ultra flexibility, the HU-Series
technology allows it to easily conform to un-
even surfaces and it performs well in critical
applications, including fish-safe requirements
for aquaculture and coal ash impoundments
capping for the solid waste sector.”

The HydraFlex™ series, with it’s three dif-
ferent variations, looks to be a popular product
line for Raven going forward, as their inno-
vative properties and overall quality speak to
Raven’s greater commitment to developing val-
ue-added and sustainable products that meet
and exceed current industry standards. “All of
these products are now available in master rolls
or large prefabricated one-piece panels,”Stoeb-
ner adds, and notes that each and every product
in the series “will have been manufactured in a
factory-controlled environment at up to 8,000
pounds per panel with a wide sealing-window
that allows for easy installation out in the field.”

Between delivering new products on an
annual basis, providing custom solutions
for customers hailing from a number of
different industries, and maintaining a
steadfast commitment to high-quality
manufacturing, Raven Engineered Films is
a company that, despite being around since

Pictured: DuraSkrim Landfill RainShed Cover.

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PROFILE • RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS

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RAVEN ENGINEERED FILMS • PROFILE

GOING THE EXTRA MILE

Raven Engineered Films recently displayed its commitment to its current and would-be customers by releas-
ing a new online distance learning course approved by the American Institute of Architects Continuing
Education System (AIA CES).

The course entitled “Critical Elements in Specifying Underslab Moisture & Gas Barriers,” is a comprehen-
sive guide covering the critical elements for specifying underslab moisture and gas barriers to create
healthy environments in commercial buildings and residential homes by preventing moisture and gas
migration including radon, methane, and harmful VOCs. The course is listed under MasterFormat™ divi-
sion 07000-Thermal and Moisture Protection, 07260-Vapor Retarders.

Raven partnered with AEC Daily, a leading e-learning company to release this free online course avail-
able 24/7. The course is accessible through www.RavenEFD.com/aia-ces, as well as the AEC Daily
online learning center, which offers users continuing education courses on architecture and engineering
topics geared toward the construction industry. These courses are free and approved by the American
Institute of Architects (AIA), Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), Green Build Certification Institute
(GBCI), and many others. The new Raven one-hour course meets Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW)
content requirements and upon completion, provides participants with 1.0 AIA CES HSW/LU (Learning
Unit) Hour.

1956, is hitting a new stride of success as it
continues to progress through 2015. “At the
end of the day, our drive is to develop solu-
tions to our customers’ problems, and we feel
quite confident that we will be doing that for
many years to come, given the product technol-
ogy and workforce we have here at Raven,” says
Stoebner, concluding, “We have a bright future
as a company here in North America, and we
look forward to meeting new opportunities—
wherever they may come from—head on and
with the same, uniform commitment we bring
to each and every partnership.”

Pictured: Construction - VaporBlock
Underslab Vapor Barrier.

INDUSTRY TODAY 95

PROFILE • CASCADE DIE CASTING GROUP

For the last 37 years, Cascade Die Casting Group has brought complete
zinc and aluminum casting solutions to the automotive industry and be-
yond. With multiple locations across the United States, the company has
both the process capability and appropriate proximity to their customers
to handle just about any need or request that comes through their doors.
Phil Torchio, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the company,
talks about how Cascade is hitting a new stride in 2015 with surging or-
ders for business and an ensuing facility expansion on the way to help
handle such. Steve Engelhardt reports.

t was in 1978 when Ted Hohlman de- Casting. It was a strategic move, because at
cided to start his own casting business in the time it represented the first casting business
Grand Rapids, Mich., purchasing a small in the area, something of significance given the
shop and naming his company Cascade Die fact that the city is a only little over two hours

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CASCADE DIE CASTING GROUP • PROFILE

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PROFILE • CASCADE DIE CASTING GROUP

DCD TECHNOLOGIES High Speed CNC Production Machining

Specialist in the design, manufacture and repair of die cast dies, forging Non-Production CNC Precision Machining
dies, ceramic, plastic and permanent molds.
Our highly qualified engineers are here to handle your project from Engineer & Build Hydraulic Workholding
concept development through design and manufacture.
Our machining processes are suitable for a broad spectrum of industries Machining – Milling, Turning, Grinding and EDM
including aerospace, automotive, appliance, industrial, lawn and Welding – with Value Added Machining
garden, medical and office furniture.
Assembly – Mechanical, Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Electrical
For further information email us at 3D Printing | Deep Hole Drilling | Black Oxide
[email protected] or
[email protected]. ISO 9001-2008 | AS9100 Rev. C
www.JamesTool.com
DCD Technologies, Inc.
17920 South Waterloo Road Morganton, North Carolina
Cleveland, OH 44119 828.584.8722
Tel: 216.481.0056
www.dcdtech.com Precision Craftsmanship Driven by Technology

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