For Immediate Release

Donnelly Custom Manufacturing Adds Director of Advanced Manufacturing
Wagner brings varied experience to new post at short-run molder, manufacturer

December 10, 2004, Alexandria, MN—Donnelly Custom Manufacturing, an Alexandria-based short-run injection molder of thermoplastics, has announced the creation of a new Director of Advanced Manufacturing position. Sam Wagner, who brings a breadth of manufacturing and managerial experience to the company, joined Donnelly in the post on October 4, 2004.

In the new position, Wagner will help Donnelly continue to adapt and advance its short-run expertise while freeing up others to focus on critical day-to-day operations. Wagner’s leadership in implementing advanced technologies and process improvements will allow President Ron Kirscht to concentrate more on business development and strategic initiatives.

“Sam brings both unique experience and perspective to the team,” said Kirscht. “His many years of experience extend far beyond plastics manufacturing. And he has worked in varied capacities in other organizations—as an individual contributor, manager and executive. So he can incorporate information at various levels of our organization and translate new ideas and technologies into practical applications.”

Wagner’s experience includes a significant focus on new technologies and lean manufacturing practices that improve competitiveness. He has been closely involved with implementations of information technologies, lean manufacturing techniques, quality systems and automation. Wagner comes to Donnelly from Superior Industries in Morris, Minn., where he was production manager. He was previously president and general manager of Chassis Liner Corp., a manufacturer and direct marketer of automotive collision repair equipment in Alexandria. Before that, he spent five years as plant manager and business unit manager at Palmer Industries.

Wagner said he’s looking forward to the challenge of improving an already well-developed organization. “Donnelly is the kind of company that takes the steps that are needed to move ahead of the pack. My goal is to look to the future so we can continue to anticipate our customers’ needs and offer innovative solutions to new challenges,” he said.

He also believes his experience in lean manufacturing will be a significant asset. “It’s a great fit with short-run manufacturing. The things you need to be great at are similar: short lead times, quick changeovers and eliminating waste,” Wagner added.

Wagner holds a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering management from the University of North Dakota and a Masters of Business Administration from San Diego State.

Click Here to Download PDF Version

####

Based in Alexandria, Minn., Donnelly’s 230 employees are dedicated to setting the standards in the custom injection-molding marketplace for “How Short Run Is Done.” The company’s focus is on providing its OEM customers with value added engineering, and highly customized manufacturing and customer support services.  A strong customer service orientation ensures outstanding customer satisfaction.
###