LCJVS grad takes top honors as the first female to win XPO MasterTech national champion.
8 CATALYST
Elyria Foundry’s pre-appreniceship and internship programs introduce students to the 120-year business.
10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
“Lil’” John Rinaldi shares his mission to help Mercy Health Foundation Lorain.
12
FOOD & DRINK
Lorain County Brewing Company opens on Lorain’s waterfront.
23 SNAPSHOT
A monument to honor Gold Star families is unveiled in downtown Elyria.
Building Together
LORAIN COUNTY SURE
CAN BUILD. It builds thriving neighborhoods that nurture the residents who call them home. It builds community programs that have become countywide support systems — the kind that sustain us. And notably: It is building jobs.
Local leaders and leading organizations are building upon Lorain County’s history and using that as a roadmap for what comes next. As an area with a deep legacy of manufacturing, its companies build the tools, gadgets and innovative elements that help companies, both locally and nationally, get their jobs done and drive progress.
A number of these manufacturing companies have roots that run deep in the region. And they are thinking about what they need to do to build a better future.
That starts by building partnerships between groups that have a vested interest in making sure these companies continue to grow and, by extension, so does our region. Two of those, Lorain Community College and Lorain County Joint Vocational School, have built programs and internships that place students at companies to help them train for future jobs. And companies, including EMC Precision, Thogus Products Co. and General Plug and Manufacturing, are introducing them to the work world.
Together, they are creating a pipeline to match well-trained students to relevant employers and good-paying careers. It’s something we all can build upon.
Read on to learn more about their stories in this issue of puLse Lorain County’s Magazine.
SINCERELY,
JENNIFER BOWEN SIMA EDITOR, PULSE LORAIN COUNTY’S MAGAZINE
ERIC MULL
CTE IMPACT REPORT
Career & Technical Education is fueling Ohio’s talent economy, preparing students for high-demand careers, college, and beyond. At Lorain County JVS, we are guided by collaboration with industry and civic partners to create BOLD, TRANSFORMATIVE, and INNOVATIVE career pathways for today -- and -- the future.
94.7%
CTE Students
In 2023, 94.7% of CTE students in Ohio were employed, continuing their education, in an apprenticeship, enlisted in the military, or in a service program within six months of graduation
96% of CTE students graduated in 2023, with 83.3% of career-technical education students scoring proficient or higher on technical skill assessments.
96%
2000+
High School & Adult Students
For the 2024/25 school year, Lorain County JVS welcomed over 2,000 high school and adult students, marking a significant milestone in the region’s ongoing efforts to grow a skilled workforce.
42%
17,121 career-technical education students (42%) went on to pursue a college degree within two years.
Ohio’s In-Demand Industries
CTE: Building Ohio’s Future Workforce to Meet Growing Industry Demands Ohio’s economy is expected to add approximately 257,000 positions (new) by 2030, with about 641,000 job openings annually.
Driven to Succeed
LCJVS grad takes top honors as the first female to win XPO MasterTech national champion. By Christine
Diesel mechanics was not the first profession choice for Alyssa Briggs when she set her sights on the Lorain County Joint Vocational School (LCJVS).
“I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” admits the 24-year-old New London resident. “I wasn’t much of a school person. I hated sitting in classes all day long.”
So, she selected three programs at LCJVS — CNC machining, welding and diesel mechanics, in that order.
“I remember getting the letter in the mail that said, ‘Congratulations, you’ve been accepted into the commercial truck program.’ And I thought, ‘No, that’s not where I was supposed to be,’ but I decided to just go for it.”
With the same can-do attitude, Briggs decided to pursue the title of MasterTech national champion in the trailer category for her employer, LTL freight transportation company XPO. After one failed attempt in 2022, she tried again in 2024.
The field narrowed from more than 150 technicians who took the qualifying exam to 20 before Briggs traveled to Orlando to compete for the national title. When they announced her name as the winner, Briggs maintained her composure long enough to shake hands with the higher-ups and feign a smile.
“I was excited, but it still didn’t hit me that I was the first woman to ever win,” she explains. “It wasn’t until a little bit later when everyone was congratulating me individually.”
HITTING THE GAS
Looking back, Briggs recalls her trepidation in being the only girl in class at LCJVS quickly being put to rest when the other students immediately accepted her.
“I didn’t know the first thing about a car, let alone a truck, and no one really judged me,” she says. “The first day of school, we were using jacks and jack stands to lift the vehicle up safely and I didn’t even know how they worked. And the guys were like, ‘Here, let me
Schaffran
show you.’ And there was no judgment whatsoever, which was great.”
After a short stint at another trucking company, Briggs found her footing as a trailer mechanic at XPO’s Parma service center.
“I love that the work changes daily. Some days, we’re doing preventative maintenance and basic inspections and some days we’re doing bigger jobs, like replacing the whole floor in a trailer.”
– Alyssa
Briggs
“I love that the work changes daily,” says Briggs, who has been with XPO for four years. “Some days, we’re doing preventative maintenance and basic inspections and some days we’re doing bigger jobs, like replacing the whole floor in a trailer. So, it’s a little bit of everything and you’re never bored.”
When her boss announced the competition, Briggs didn’t give it much thought because she didn’t believe she was qualified to go up against co-workers who had been working on trailers for 20 or 30 years.
XPO’s annual competition features a 27-station timed competition that challenges truck and trailer mechanics and forklift technicians to diagnose problems and talk their way through their troubleshooting rationale. In the end, 20 finalists are sent to compete for the national title.
“In Orlando, my initial thoughts were that I was competing against the best of the best. And in the back of my head, I was still thinking that I didn’t fit in,” she admits. “I was the only woman competing.”
Although Briggs had doubts, no one else wavered in the fact that she deserved to be crowned champion.
“We are extremely proud of Alyssa for making history as our first female champion and are grateful to her and all of our technicians for keeping our fleet in top condition,” says Chris Carter, vice president of maintenance at XPO.
With the recognition, Briggs wants to encourage other women to break into the essentially male-dominated field.
“There’s not many women in this field, and I hope me accomplishing this shows women who might be thinking about it to just go for it,” she says.
Indeed, diesel mechanics may not have been her first choice. But Briggs agrees it was her best choice.
Alyssa Briggs competes at MasterTech 2024, setting the pressure on an oxy/acetylene cutting torch.
Awareness and Opportunity
Elyria Foundry’s pre-apprenticeship and internship programs introduce students to 120-year business.
By Chrissy Kadleck
With a uniquely rich history that has been forged over 120 years, Elyria Foundry is casting its corporate net to attract the next generation of skilled workers to its sprawling job shop foundry. Spanning 33 acres and 460,000 square feet, it is one of the largest gray and ductile iron foundries in the country.
Producing gray and ductile iron castings of up to 10,000 pounds for a variety of markets, including equipment for municipal water, energy and mining, Elyria Foundry is leveraging its entry level on-the-job training to inform local high school students about the career opportunities available at its facility.
Partnering with Lorain County Joint Vocational School (LCJVS), the company is working on initiatives that
start with building awareness about its industry and what it does.
“Nobody really knows what goes on here or really anything about us so we’re seeing how we can build up programs, whether it be pre-apprenticeship or internships with the students at JVS,” says Summer Taylor, senior human resources manager. “We recently spoke to a metallurgy class there and talked through our process. We really had a good interactive conversation with the students about not only career paths, but what this industry does and where it impacts the world.”
The company has an apprenticeship program that it will be relaunching this year that will provide a certificate program for those in core making and mold making.
“We’ve just recently increased our onboarding process to be able to more effectively engage with our new associates,” says President Brian Wright. “We present them with a Foundry 101 class, so basically entry level type foundry applications and it gives them at least a jumpstart as to what they can expect day in and day out when they start here as a new employee.”
Elyria Foundry large scale prototyping work
As one of the largest recyclers in the industry, Elyria Foundry has opportunities for those with no experience and for those who may have specialized skills such as welding or CNC machining.
“Those skills can translate,” Taylor says. “And it’s just opening their eyes to another industry of work.”
Entry level jobs at the foundry start around $17-$18 an hour with a very fast ramp up. Once an associate has been working there for 90 days, they have experienced a considerable pay increase.
“We realize that it’s highly critical that we refocus our efforts to invest in people and give them the tools to allow them to be the best people that they can be, to grow, evolve and develop,” Wright says. “There’s so much more we can do to reinvest people, help train them to help them, give them a better livelihood to help them have a better life overall. That’s something that we’re really proud of here.”
In addition to investing in its workforce and creating a pipeline of
new workers for its industry, Elyria Foundry focuses on being a solid community partner by encouraging associates to volunteer several times a year with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, the APL and United Way. The company also sponsored the fireworks display for Elyria’s Fourth of July celebration in 2024.
“We have a special place in our hearts for making an impact on the community and trying to make the world better, even if it’s one opportunity at a time,” Taylor says. “Whether that’s a sponsorship like youth boxing, or it’s giving someone a chance at an entry level job when they wouldn’t have one anywhere else.”
Elyria Foundry workers produce gray and ductile iron casting for extreme projects.
Big Impacts
“Lil’” John Rinaldi shares his mission to help Mercy Health Foundation Lorain and some funny memories.
By Linda Feagler
For generations of fans, Friday night meant settling in to watch the “Big Chuck & Lil’ John Show.” Part of the FOX 8 weekend late-night TV lineup for 28 years, the show featured lowbudget horror movies complemented by the duo’s zany, not-to-be missed skits.
“It means a lot to me that the hospitals are community-based, faith-based and really reach out to people who need help.”
– John Rinaldi
The show’s legacy continues to live on, not only in the annals of broadcast history and tribute programs, but in its commitment to helping others.
Proceeds from the purchase of T-shirts and other items available on the Fox 8 website that sport the “Big Chuck
& Lil’ John” logo will be donated to the Mercy Health Foundation Lorain.
Solon resident “Lil’” John Rinaldi — who joined the cast in 1969 and served as the show’s co-host with “Big Chuck” Schodowski from 1979 to 2007 — didn’t have to think twice about accepting Foundation President Scott Pember’s invitation to join the organization’s Board of Directors.
“I looked into Mercy Health Lorain before I said, ‘yes,’” Rinaldi recalls. “It means a lot to me that the hospitals are community-based, faith-based and really reach out to people who need help.”
“And,” he adds, “they operate without a lot of red tape.”
Founded in the mid-1800s by a congregation of Catholic Sisters, Mercy Health is dedicated to philanthropy. In 2018, Mercy Health merged with Bon Secours, to become one of the largest healthcare systems in the country with a network of more than 1,200 care sites and 49 hospitals.
Mercy Health Foundation Lorain connects donors with programs
Abbe Rd N, Elyria, OH 44035 Friday, May 9th • 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
they’re passionate about, thus ensuring compassionate care and a focus on excellence. The Foundation provides support to Mercy HealthLorain Hospital in Lorain, Mercy Health-Allen Hospital in Oberlin, New Life Hospice, the Mercy HealthO’Brien Cancer Center in Elyria, community outreach programs (parish nursing); and assists patients in need of financial help. Recent projects include purchase of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanner and a mobile mammography unit that will travel throughout the county.
“We’re thrilled John has joined our board,” Pember says. “He’s a great ambassador for us because so many people know him as Lil’ John, and he’s comfortable engaging with people from all walks of life.
“Like the rest of our members,” he adds, “John can talk in-depth about the work we’re doing, and ways anyone can help.” For more information, visit https://fox8shop.1stplacespiritwear. com/sites/OH/Cleveland/Fox+8/ collection_detail.html
Three Special Skits
“My philosophy is simple,” Rinaldi explains. “I want to make somebody laugh or smile every day.” And this has been his philosophy since he was a kid.
He credits the comedic genius of his on-air partner Chuck Schodowski, with helping make that happen.
“Chuck and I were more than friends, we were brothers,” Rinaldi explains, reflecting on his pal’s death in January at age 90. “He was the person who gave me the name Lil’ John.”
BRIDGET THE MIDGET
Rinaldi made his debut in this parody of Ray Stevens’ novelty song.
“I had a reputation for being funny, and [Cleveland dance teacher] Dick Blake was a friend who knew ‘Big’ Chuck. Chuck told him he needed a little girl for an upcoming skit, and Dick said, “I don’t know a little girl, but I know a little guy.” Chuck said that would work, and told me to come to [a lounge] in Fairview Park the next Saturday night and bring a dress — which I borrowed from my sister’s closet — combat boots and a wig. After we filmed the skit, he asked if I’d like to join the show’s basketball team
out of courtesy, thinking I’d say ‘no’ because of my height. Instead, I said, “Sure, no problem.”
TROGLODYTE, a satirization of a recording made by the soul/funk/disco group The Jimmy Castor Bunch, was filmed at Hinckley Lake, and featured Rinaldi in caveman attire with club in hand.
“This was the fourth skit I did, and I’m asked about it the most,” he says. “I had to run down a boat ramp to the water and go in. Problem was, I couldn’t swim. Chuck’s teen-aged son had to pull me out.”
THE DUEL was filmed at the WJW Channel 8 building on 5800 at 5800 South Marginal Road in downtown Cleveland.
“We were on top of the building on the railing and it was windy,” Rinaldi recalls. “Think about that: We’re on a walkway that’s 2 feet wide, and, for safety, all we had was a rope tied around each other.”
“A lot of things we did because we were young and dumb,” he adds. “We wouldn’t do them again.”
What’s Brewing Next
Lorain Brewing Company is helping to revitalize Lorain’s waterfront.
By Leah O’Brien
The Lorain Brewing Company, rebranded from Avon Brewing Company, offers a new twist on an old favorite, while breathing new life into the city of Lorain.
According to Owner/Brewmaster Mathias Hauck, the change was driven by a planned expansion by the brewery, as well as a need for a larger facility in Lorain. Lorain Brewing Company is aiming to emphasize its connection to the city of Lorain and be seen as an integral part of the community.
“Our dedicated and loving staff are passionate about providing an exceptional guest experience,” says Hauck. Joining Owner/Brewmaster Mathias Hauck are Executive Chef Brian Weaver, Partner Ken Weaver and Event Manager Stacy Davis.
“As a family-owned and operated business, we bring a personal touch and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.”
When you visit Shipyards location, you’ll be greeted with a waterfront oasis. This is where you can take in the sunset and stunning water views of the Black River and Bascule Bridge from the spacious outdoor beer garden and patio. As you observe the vibrant activity of the Harborwalk community, you can dine al fresco, unwind with a drink, people-watch or host a gathering.
“Our massive, beautifully restored historic building offers a truly unique and captivating ambiance,” Hauck says.
Lorain Brewing Company is also a versatile event space that can host a wide range of celebrations. From intimate gatherings to large-scale events, this event space has a capacity of 400+, depending on the layout.
In the event space, you’ll find historic steel beams, exposed brick walls and lofty ceilings. These contribute to an industrial-chic ambiance that features a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, on-site catering options, ample parking and a convenient location in the heart of Lorain.
Beyond the restaurant, brewery and event space, guests can look forward to the opening of Lorain Brewing Coffee House.
“Just as with our beer, Lorain Brewing Company is bringing the same dedication to craft and quality to its coffee. The Coffee House will offer a unique and inviting atmosphere within the historic Lorain Brewing Company complex,” Hauck says. An opening date is coming soon.
The Lorain Brewing Company’s renovation of the historic Ship Building Pattern Warehouse has played a significant role in the revitalization of Lorain’s waterfront. This building, along with the water tower overlooking the Black River, serve as some of the few remaining reminders of Lorain’s shipbuilding past.
“We want to contribute to the revitalization of the city by attracting visitors, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses,” says Hauck.
Indulge in a brand-new menu featuring innovative dishes crafted with local ingredients. Thirsty? This is a hop-lovers paradise. Savor any of the 32 signature Lorain drafts, brewed on site. If you’re not sure what to choose, Hauck suggests starting with one of these options:
Erie Monster - (GFA) house dusted and fried jumbo
Sloppy Tots - (GF) sweet potato tots topped with sloppy joe sauce, white queso and scallions. Pair with the Ruby Red Fruited Hazy IPA.
Lake
walleye filet, remoulade sauce, lettuce and tomato on a toasted italian roll. Pair with the Shaka Brah Hazy IPA.
Gusto - (GFA) grilled asparagus, prosciutto, smoked provolone, baby arugula and truffle oil. Pair with the Lorain Lite Lager.
Which Lorain County destinations top your list of favorites? Vote now in the 2025 Best of Lorain County contest. This year’s finalists will be announced in the Summer 2025 issue of puLse and invited to take part in the 2025 Best of Lorain County Party. The deadline to submit nominations is April 1, 2025.
Want to taste, sample and experience all of this year’s finalists under one roof? Join us on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Lorain County Community College for the 2025 Best of Lorain County Party More than 50 finalists will be on-hand to showcase what makes them a Lorain County favorite. Tickets are on sale now at pulselorainmag.com/tickets
builds lorain county
Longstanding manufacturing companies and educational institutions work together to bridge the past and future generations on their path to success. // By
Jill Sell
Portraits of company founders hang proudly in board rooms and reception areas.
Company histories written for annual reports and for milestone anniversaries are often fascinating, complex, and filled with stories of ups and downs and amazing personalities. Sections of buildings (sometimes attached to gleaming new additions) are often referred to as “the old part” or “the original part” of a manufacturing facility. These walls breathe history, entrepreneurial spirit and respect.
These companies invest here over several generations and will continue to invest. Some have employees from several generations of the same family, and that’s key.”
—TONY GALLO, President/CEO, Lorain County Chamber of Commerce
Some long-time manufacturing companies are amazing multigeneration family affairs. Owners can boast of three or four generations involved in the business, as well as extended family members. In some cases, children of the youngest generation, maybe even too young walk, are being looked at as extenders of the legacy.
Lorain County can boast of a number of decades-old manufacturing companies whose roots run deep in the region. The manufacturer may not be making the same products or parts as those created at the time of its founding or using the same methods of production. But over the years, these successful companies have adapted and conquered unique challenges in a changing world.
Successful heritage manufacturers have played a significant role in Lorain County’s economic development and stability. These companies create and sustain jobs, advocate for improved municipal infrastructures and progress, and support local schools, community events and nonprofits. “There are advantages of having long-time companies in a community,” says Anthony (Tony) Gallo, president/CEO, Lorain County Chamber of Commerce. “These companies invest here over several generations and will continue to invest. Some have employees from several generations of the same family, and that’s key.”
The reputation of these companies and their name recognition has contributed not just to the region, but to Ohio and the nation. How important is manufacturing to the state? Consider these stats from the 2024 Manufacturing Counts economic impact report from the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association:
* Manufacturing is responsible for 17.5% of Ohio’s (private industry) Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
*As of 2023, Ohio’s manufacturing GDP was $133,16 million, making it fourth in the country, only behind California, Texas and Illinois. (U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis)
Luke Wright, EMC Precision Vice President, Plant Manager
*Ohio manufacturing has an annual payroll of $48 billion, the highest total wages of any Ohio industry sector.
* The average annual earnings of Ohio workers on manufacturing payrolls in 2022 was $70,000, with an hourly wage as of 2023 of $31.38.
Decades of support by local governments, vibrant business organizations, community leaders and educational institutions has been a huge reason Lorain County can count on an impressive number of seasoned manufacturers calling the region their home. It’s also a strong reason new businesses are attracted to the area. Here’s just one example:
In many ways, Swiss machining is helping to revolutionize manufacturing as we know it. It’s not a new technology — its roots can be traced to the mid-19th century and a Swiss watchmaker named Jakob Schweizer. Basically, he invented a unique method to machine small parts more effectively. Today, advanced Swiss machining is being embraced to create intricate components for the medical, automotive, consumer electronics and aerospace/defense industries. The
practice helps meet the engineering needs of today and tomorrow. And it’s happening in Lorain County, often led by heritage manufacturers.
One example is General Plug and Manufacturing Co., founded in 1955 and a longtime manufacturer in Oberlin. The company primarily makes pipe plugs, reducer bushings and special screw machine parts for several industries. It is capable of altering or adapting parts to meet a client’s specifications. Recently, when General Plug needed additional employees trained and skilled in their unique needs, they approached Lorain County Community College (LCCC).
“Initially, we didn’t have a course that met their exact needs,” says Cindy Kushner, LCCC’s director for School, Workforce, and Community Partnerships. “So, we rolled up our sleeves and worked with this manufacturer to develop it.” We had our first students graduate from this program in December 2024.”
Gallo points to “the unique symbiotic relationships” between industry, government entities, private sector businesses and organizations, State of Ohio, Lorain County and
educational institutions as another reason companies celebrate many anniversaries in the region.
“We work in cooperation with each other. Everyone hangs up their ego at the door,” says Gallo, who tips his hat to several long time Lorain County institutions.
EMC PRECISION
EMC Precision in Elyria has hit the century mark. Founded in 1925 as Elyria Manufacturing Corporation, the fourth-generation family business celebrates 100 years of elite precision machining in 2025. Now leading the company as president and CEO, Jeff Ohlemacher has been with the business 51 years, more than half of its existence.
“That’s pretty exciting — and rare,” observes Luke Wright, vice president, plant manager, who has been with the company since 1996, also not an insignificant accomplishment.
EMC’s facilities on Northup Street consisted of three buildings when Wright arrived, plus a plant in North Ridgeville. A consolidation closed the latter location in 2006. However, about 15 years ago, an additional operation in Sheridan, Indiana, opened.
Today the manufacturer provides precision machine parts for a variety of applications in the aerospace, automotive, appliance, medical, marine, heavy vehicle, recreation, agriculture, pneumatic and hydraulic and fluid power industries.
“Manufacturing is a very important job, from making hydraulics on a tractor down to putting glue on your cereal box. During Covid, we were an essential company and stayed open. We turned out parts for things like ventilators and we turned them out very quickly,” says Wright.
The long history of the company and its economic and community contributions to the region is not lost on employees. That involvement, especially with educational institutions, continues into the future.
“Jeff’s family is originally from here and his dad was well known in the community,” says Wright. “They all mostly stayed here, serving on school boards, joining civic organizations, being active and a big part of Elyria.”
Sarah Grieve & Luke Wright, EMC Precision
The original Elyria Manufacturing Corporation
Last year, EMC completed a $1.5 million expansion and major renovation project at its Elyria plant that has about 50 employees.
New locker rooms and restrooms were built, offices were upgraded and a former training center was converted to an employee-friendly multi-purpose room with a kitchen and commons area. But changes to the plant aren’t all cosmetic.
“When I started here, there were a lot of mechanical machines.
Now all of our equipment is CNC (computer numerical control) machinery,” says Wright, one of three brothers who attended Lorain County Joint Vocational School (LCJVS) and who earned his journeyman tool and die maker certification there. “It’s a big shift and a major difference, needed as the global market opened up for us.”
Wright is also adamant about EMC’s focus on servant leadership. It’s become “a journey for the past three years” that has allowed the entire company to embrace its core values. This leadership style shares power and emphasizes the development of employees.
“When we first started our servant leadership movement, there were several people here that were hesitant and unsure,” recalls Wright. “But now they say it is one of the best things that has happened to them.”
sarah grieve
Two years ago, Sarah Grieve was promoted to full-time manufacturing engineer at EMC Precision in Elyria. Her rise to the prestigious position was the result of following a wellplanned educational route that began when she was a student at Elyria High School.
“I didn’t want to go to college and have college debt. I wanted a trade and to get a job right after high school,” recalls Grieve. “I toured LCJVS with my dad, who graduated from the Precision Machine Technology program there. When I saw the lab, it sparked an interest and I started there as a junior in 2014. My job placement was at EMC when I was 16. And I am still there.”
By the time she was a senior, Grieve realized she could attend Lorain County Community College (LCCC) with the help of scholarships and suddenly her outlook about higher education changed. She began taking classes at the college while still in high school, going fulltime after graduation. Grieve graduated with an Associate of Manufacturing Engineering Technology — Computer Aided Machining degree in 2018.
“LCCC is a great place with great teachers. And EMC is also a great place to work,” says Grieve. “When I was going through college, they let me work parttime when I had to. They worked around my schedule and college classes and were very supportive.”
Grieve admits there were some challenging moments along the way as a young woman in a once male-dominated career, especially as a high schooler. Her first day at work, several male employees expressed concern about working with someone who was not yet 18.
“I told them, ‘But I have permission from my school,’” she remembers. “But then it totally turned around after I proved myself. Now I am great friends with some of those people I worked with at the beginning.”
Grieve advises anyone wanting to pursue a career in manufacturing “to stick with what you really want to do” and to “speak up about what you want to learn more about.”
“My job has sent me to a few different training experiences because I asked about the possibilities. And manufacturing is not a dark, dirty factory job anymore,” says Grieve, adding that her favorite part of her current position is “creating new things from start to finish.”
“I can begin with a bar of raw material and after I run it through a machine or run a program for it, it comes out as a pretty part,” says Grieve, who celebrates her 10th year at EMC in 2025. “That’s pretty satisfying.”
Outside of work, Grieve enjoys camping, working out and playing with her dog and cat. She spends “a lot of time” playing pickle ball with her parents and considers Wolfey’s Bistro and Pub in Elyria to be her favorite restaurant.
EMC Precision newly rennovated kitchen and lounge
THOGUS PRODUCTS COMPANY
The industrial world knows Thogus Products Company, headquartered in Avon Lake, primarily as a custom plastic injection molder and contract manufacturer. But it’s not just plastic the company is thinking about in 2025. It’s also diamonds. Founded in 1950, Thogus is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. And, at least symbolically and traditionally, a 75-year celebration is represented by diamonds.
The company supplies products for many markets, including health care and medical, automotive, plumbing, electronics, consumer products and industrial. Its huge range of products includes such diverse products as automotive knobs and switches, football helmets, small appliances and medical implants. But the sparkle of Thogus comes not only from products, but from its mission and goals.
“We are a third-generation family business now,” says CEO Matt Hlavin, grandson of the company’s
founder Jack Thompson. “The second generation ran the business a shorter period of time. The vision wasn’t really to change or evolve. When I took over as president in 2008, I wanted the business to do more than
We care about our employees and their families. We’ve built many strong partnerships and relationships, personal and professional.”
—ERIN SCHNEIDER, Thogus Director of Human Resources
just make parts for customers and be a supplier. I really wanted us to thrive in engineering and provide critical customer support.
“Now we help our customers with design, material selection and better manufacturing progress and we use our network to help expand their business,” he adds.
In the late 1970s, Thogus moved its operation to what was then a brand-new industrial area, Pin Oak Parkway in Avon Lake. The company was the first tenant. The advantages were strong: expansion possibilities, accessibility to a workforce and a lower cost of business ownership in Lorain County.
“We have immersed ourselves in this business community,” says Hlavin. “And part of that is becoming involved with K-12 educational programs associated with the schools around us.”
According to Erin Schneider, the company’s director of human resources, that connection includes participating in career fairs, job shadowing, parent open houses, internships and apprenticeships. Thogus’s top executives have also served on LCCC and LCJVS advisory boards “to help
Erin Schneider & Matt Hlavin, Thogus
shape curriculum to better match needs of employers.”
Thogus has also built successful career paths for existing and new employees, investing in training, factory automation for safety and manufacturing efficiencies, continuous improvement and emerging technology so employees know it is “not just a job,” says Hlavin, proud that 37 out of the company’s 85 employees have been there for 10 years or more, with 41 years being the longest tenure.
“Our brand means something in the community, and we feel a part of it,” says Schneider, a member of the founding family. “We care about our employees and their families. We’ve built many strong partnerships and relationships, personal and professional.”
Hlavin insists Thogus is not about to abandon a region that has meant so much to the family business — as long as local and county governments and community leaders continue to show their support and loyalty. More good news — in January Thogus received the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year award.
tyler johnson
Tyler Johnson claims he was just a naive, “snot-nosed senior in high school” when he approached representatives from Thogus Products Company at a LCJVS school fair and asked for a tool and die apprenticeship.
“As kind as they were, they told me they didn’t have a program for that just yet, but they would start one,” recalls Johnson, who became the only tool room machinist at the time hired by Thogus. “They had to assemble a machine shop and hire a journeyman tool and die maker who I could work under before I could start. I am so grateful to them for giving me a start.”
That beginning turned into what Johnson calls “a rocket ship career.” He stayed with Thogus from 2012 to 2016 and then, like a maturing child in any family, struck out on his own.
In 2019, Johnson became the owner of Origin Tool Company, where he advises clients with their manufacturing formation needs.
That includes being a business consultant, network provider, engineering process developer and more. He can take an idea “from a sketch on a napkin to a finished product,” he explains.
Johnson is also an engineering manager for Blade-Tech Industries, a holster manufacturer specializing in injection molding.
Working for this vertically integrated company has allowed Johnson to utilize all of his skills.
“When I first started in manufacturing, I thought of it as a job. But now I know it is more of a mindset,” says Johnson. “I can sit in a room alone and just look at the things in there and know how they were made.”
Thogus Headquarters
Hcomponent the education
ow important is it that educational institutions and the labor market join forces to create a strong economy in the United States? The Brookings Institution, an independent, nonprofit research organization based in Washington, D.C., says it is imperative.
The Institution says that “opportunities to learn on-the-job and to have that learning recognized for credit and credentialing — whether through an entry-level program like apprenticeships or professional development to support career advancement — must be scaled to meet the demands of today’s labor market.”
The need is particularly acute in manufacturing. According to the Manufacturing Institute, “as many as 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030” will exist, “absent efforts to prepare Americans to fill them.” As the world immerses itself in the so-called Fourth Industrial Revolution, the shift to AI, robotics, biotechnologies and other advancements is arriving at an unprecedented rate.
Fortunately, Lorain County has become a leader and state model for the
partnering of educational opportunities and the work world. Largely because of two schools, Lorain County JVS (LCJVS) and Lorain County Community College (LCCC), the region has established a healthy pipeline to match well-trained students to relevant employers and good paying careers. That in turn, allows businesses to grow and thrive and contribute to the economy.
“We have kept companies here because we are able to fill workforce jobs and because LCCC and LCJVS can pivot to provide the necessary training,” says Gallo.
LORAIN COUNTY JOINT VOCATIONAL SCHOOL
LCJVS in Oberlin has an in-house enrollment of about 1,300 students and draws from 13 school districts. It offers a number of both traditional and nontraditional pathways for students to kickstart their chosen careers, especially in the manufacturing arena. LCJVS’s State Recognized Pre-apprenticeship Programs are a strong example.
According to LCJVS, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce reported 94.7% of career-technical education students were employed, continuing education, in
Our staff has developed decades-long relationships with certain companies. That’s where a lot of the magic happens.”
—DR.
BRANDON KUSHINSKI, LCJVS Assistant Principal
an apprenticeship, enlisted in the military or in a service program within six months of leaving high school in 2023.
Pairing students with local companies is accomplished in several ways, according to Brandon Kushinski, EdD, LCJVS assistant principal, who has been a member of the school’s administration since 2015. Sometimes a company will approach the school, wishing to establish a partnership, anticipating a need for employees with specific, often new skills. Other times, community leaders and/or the school will identify a company that could offer real world work experience and a ground floor entry to students.
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“Our staff has developed decades-long relationships with certain companies. That’s where a lot of the magic happens,” says Dr. Kushinski. “Those are the relationships that really help us. John Green, Precision Machine Technology instructor, is one of the best in the building. They knows everyone in manufacturing in the county. If we have a student who struggles with transportation, but lives nearby a certain company doing what he is learning, John will ask if the company has a place for him.”
Dr. Kushinski adds “part of our role is to ensure students work in places where they are valued,” and where they get an experience different from what they may find if they just sought employment on their own.
“My grandpa worked at and retired from the old Ford plant here. That is a lot of other people’s story, too. But it’s not like that anymore,” says Dr. Kushinski. “Students need to be prepared before they graduate high school.”
The assistant principal finds it particularly satisfying when former students return to LCJVS as mentors, volunteers, company recruiters or just friends. One of the advantages to that interaction for current students is that these visiting individuals know what today’s future employees need.
“Employers also come to the school, give of their time and interview students. But the students also ask questions of the employers,” says Dr. Kushinski. “And that helps everyone understand each other. Some students really want to work for a company that shows social awareness.”
LORAIN COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Cindy Kushner, director of LCCC’s School, Workforce and Community Partnerships, agrees with Dr. Kushinski that it is “those deep relationships and ongoing conversations” between educational institutions and industry that will ensure a bright future for both students and employers. Kushner emphasizes that exposure is one of the best ways to reach students.
“We try to make sure that there is an awareness beyond what students see on social media and television about what jobs are in our region,” says Kushner. “We have some really amazing opportunities here, but they are not necessarily what students see.”
The Microelectronic Manufacturing (MEMS) program is one such opportunity. The emerging technology requires knowledge in electronics, computer-aided drafting, soldering and microscopic work. LCCC identifies MEMS as technology with “unlimited growth potential and a chance for students to work with groundbreaking devices.” The program is currently available at Midview High School in Eaton Township.
A number of schools across the state offer participation in robotics clubs, which is fine for a student learning the basics. But the LCCC robotics program at Marion L. Steele High School in Amherst “closes a gap between what students learn in a club and what they are learning in real world experience,” according to Kushner. The Certificate of Completion in Robotics Operator prepares students with basic foundation skills which can lead to certificates and degrees.
Have an idea for better athletic safety? Cancer detection? Clean water access? LCCC’s FlexFactor is designed to encourage middle school and high school students to tackle real world problems. Students identify a problem, design a hardware solution, create a business model and present their work to a panel of experts. The six-week program involves 20 to 25 different schools every year.
“We couldn’t do our curriculum without our partner employers. And we try to respond when they tell us there is something new they need,” says Kushner. “If we don’t have the experience already, we work together to create the program. It is a true partnership.”
Cindy Kushner
Dr. Brandon Kushinski
Students work in the Micro Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) lab.
tyler
Project Engineer Tyler Higginbotham’s early interest in manufacturing was ignited from watching the TV series, How’s It Made. There was just something about those giant machines magically cranking out everyday objects that we take for common that intrigued him.
the early 1900s rubber industry. Team Wendy is a leading supplier of helmets and their components for military, first responders, athletes and personal use.
“Team Wendy is fast paced and a challenge every day. But work would be boring without challenges, wouldn’t it?” asks Higginbotham.
“Watching those shows gave me the desire to be a problem solver,” says Higginbotham, an alum of Marion L. Steele High School in Amherst and LCJVS, where he studied what is now called Engineering Design and Technology.
After graduation Higginbotham became a draftsman for three years at a manufacturer in Avon, an opportunity he traces to a LCJVS internship opportunity. From there he became an engineering technician at Thogus Products Company for eight years.
“It was a pleasure and Thogus is still my family,” claims Higginbotham.
In 2024, Higginbotham joined Team Wendy, a strategic business unit of Avon Protection, a European-based company whose history goes back to
Higginbotham is excited about the “big changes” he has seen in the manufacturing world, especially in Lorain County, the Cleveland area and in Ohio since his high school days. He cites the efforts of communities to bring back or attract new manufacturing opportunities, as well as the commitment of individuals in the manufacturing realm.
“Wherever I work in manufacturing and engineering, I want to carry out my responsibilities and be successful,” says Higginbotham. “I know that what I do doesn’t just affect the company, but the community around it. When you come to work, you have to make sure you are doing your part. And if you do that, it helps the company stay in business.”
COUNTY snapshot ORAIN
Standing Strong
A new downtown Elyria monument honors fallen soldiers and their families.
Local families of fallen military heroes now have an honored place to grieve their loved ones who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
Prominently situated in Downtown Elyria Square, the recently unveiled Lorain County Gold Star Families Memorial Monument is not only visually stunning with its black granite design and deeply patriotic themes, but also culminating in the years of effort and widespread community support.
Most importantly, it is powerful reminder of the profound sacrifice surviving “Gold Star families” have made toward our freedom, says Kimberly Hazelgrove, a Gold Star spouse, U.S. Army veteran and co-chair of the Lorain County Gold Star Families committee.
“I felt it was really important to elevate the loss that surviving families go through, not just on Memorial Day or immediately after the trag-
edy, but honoring and recognizing the loss, and the family members who live with that every single day of their lives,” says Hazelgrove, who lost her husband, an Army helicopter pilot, 21 years ago when his aircraft went down in Iraq. In an instant, Hazelgrove, an Army intelligence analyst herself, became a single mother to four children, the youngest only six months old.
“There is no timeline in grief. So even though my loss was 21 years ago, I still live that every day,” she says. “His birthday, our anniversary, our daughter’s wedding, a birth of a grandchild, those moments come up repeatedly, and it doesn't go away.”
Hazelgrove, who is also the vice president of Gold Star Spouses of America, a national organization that leads advocacy efforts for the surviving spouses, worked with a dedicated committee that included co-chair Jacob Smith, executive director of the Lorain County
Veterans Service Commission, to dedicate the monument on Sept. 29. It is now one of more than a dozen in Ohio.
Designed by Clark & Post Architects Inc., the monument’s memorial panels are inscribed with Homeland, Family, Patriot and Sacrifice, as well as portion of a letter that President Abraham Lincoln sent to a Gold Star mother who lost her five sons in the Civil War. The monument is surrounded by inviting benches, flagpoles and six military service branch markers.
The Gold Star Family Memorial was created by a foundation named for Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams — a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was awarded the nation’s highest medal for valor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
— Chrissy Kadleck
Who is Eligible for the PACE Program?
• 55 Years and Older
• Live in Cuyahoga & Lorain Counties
• Meet Level of Care
• Live Safely in the Community
PACE provides the following services:
• Primary Care physician
• Medical Specialist
• Prescription Medication
• Medical Clinic
• Transportation
• Durable Medical Equipment (Canes, Walkers, Wheel Chairs, Hospital Bed, Commodes, Shower Bench) Live At Home. Your Goal. Our Priority! The PACE model of care includes a specialized trained team of medical professionals that works together to coordinate your medical and socialization needs. PACE gives you peace of mind while you live at home.
