When Jordan Thompson walked into BTD more than two decades ago, he didn’t know he was starting a family legacy. He simply wanted a welding job close to the area where he grew up. But 23 years later, his own journey through welding, supervision, manufacturing leadership, and now quality management has paved the way for something bigger — the kind of workplace where his kids, Mackenzie and Conner, would eventually find their own footing and their own futures.

Why did you join BTD?

Long before he became Quality ISO Manager, Jordan spotted a job posting in the Otter Tail County Midweek and decided to apply. Fresh out of NDSCS with welding experience building car trailers and bulk fuel tanks, he took the leap into a company he’d never heard of — but one that would become a major part of his life.

Years later, both of his kids found themselves at a similar crossroads. Mackenzie wasn’t sure what she wanted to do after high school, and Conner was in the same boat. Each time, Jordan mentioned BTD. Not as a push — but as a possibility.

“Give it a try,” he told them.

And they did.

What did you know about manufacturing/BTD before you started?

Jordan came in with six years of welding experience but no familiarity with BTD. Mackenzie and Conner knew even less — just bits they’d picked up from their dad, and a general sense that BTD made parts for companies like Polaris. Everything else, they learned by stepping onto the floor, seeing the pace and pride firsthand, and discovering how many products begin with the parts made right inside those walls.

What do you like best about your role, shift, or team?

What all three Thompsons found was community.

For Mackenzie, it was the way her shift operates like a safety net. “If I need help on anything, everyone is willing to help,” she said. Even people she doesn’t know well jump in without hesitation. That level of reliability makes coming to work feel easier.

Conner shared the same experience. The people, he said, are the best part of his shift, friendly, helpful, steady.

Jordan’s favorite part of his job changed as his career grew. He started on second shift as a hand welder, moved to third shift to learn setups, and eventually transitioned to days, where he stepped into shift leadership. From there, the opportunities kept building — first welding supervision, then robotic welding, and later manufacturing leadership, overseeing Tubing, Fabrication, Machining, Hand Welding, and Robot Welding. His journey ultimately led him into quality, where he now serves as Quality ISO Manager.

Each step stretched him. Each role demanded new skills. And each challenge — in his words — “helped fast-track my development at BTD.”

What makes BTD a great place to build a career?

For the Thompsons, the answer varies — but all roads lead back to opportunity.

Jordan points to the constant room to grow. Whether it was training, mentorship, or simply the chance to apply for new roles, he credits BTD with pushing him to expand what he thought he was capable of.

Mackenzie loves the variety: every day brings something new, from new parts to new projects. “You never know what you’ll be doing until you get started,” she said.

For Conner, it’s the culture, including the friendliness, the willingness to help, the sense that you’re never on your own.

Together, they represent three different entry points into BTD. And all three show the same thing: it’s a place where you can begin without knowing exactly what comes next and end up building a career you’re proud of.

Life outside work

Off the clock, the Thompson household is outdoors whenever they can be; hunting, fishing, and spending time with friends and family. It’s a thread all three share, another tie that connects their work lives to their home lives.

The Thompson family’s story reflects what makes BTD special. It’s not one path, it’s many. It’s mentors, training, technology, teamwork, and the confidence that you can keep growing if you keep showing up. Whether you’re a seasoned welder or a recent graduate searching for your next step, BTD is the kind of place where careers take shape, sometimes one family member at a time.

Learn more about career opportunities at BTD.

The post How the Thompsons Built Their Manufacturing Careers at BTD appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

At BTD, safety isn’t just a policy—it’s a mindset that shows up on every shift and in every facility. That’s why we’re proud to share that our teams have been recognized with multiple safety awards from both the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) and the Minnesota Safety Council.

These awards aren’t just plaques on the wall. They reflect the real work our teams do every day to look out for each other and operate with care, precision, and responsibility.

FMA Safety Award of Honor

BTD was once again recognized by the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) for exceptional safety performance across multiple facilities. The Award of Honor is presented to companies with a perfect safety record—zero recordable injuries or illnesses during the reporting period—while the Award of Merit recognizes companies with a recordable rate at least 10% better than the industry average, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

This year’s recognition continues a long-standing tradition of safety excellence at BTD. In fact, our sites have received FMA safety awards for more than 10 consecutive years, underscoring our ongoing commitment to building a strong safety culture that protects our people and supports operational excellence.

• BTD Detroit Lakes – Safety Award of Merit
• BTD Lakeville Production – Safety Award of Merit
• BTD Washington – Safety Award of Merit
• BTD Dawsonville Production – Safety Award of Merit
• BTD Lakeville Tooling – Award of Honor
• BTD Buford Warehouse – Award of Honor

Earning these recognitions takes consistency, focus, and an all-in commitment from every person on the floor. We’re proud of our team for setting—and keeping—the bar high.

2024 Minnesota Governor’s Workplace Safety Awards

Closer to home, our Minnesota teams were honored by the Minnesota Safety Council as part of the 2024 Governor’s Safety Awards. These awards recognize employers with exceptional safety performance and a proven commitment to protecting their teams.

• BTD Detroit Lakes – Gold Award
• BTD Lakeville – Gold Award
• BTD Lakeville Tooling – Bronze Award

Why Safety Matters

A safe workplace is a strong workplace. It means fewer disruptions, more consistent output, and a team that’s focused and ready to deliver high-quality work on time. For our customers, that translates into reliable timelines, efficient production, and peace of mind knowing every project is in good hands.

Thank You, Team

This recognition belongs to every employee who takes safety seriously—not just for themselves, but for their coworkers, their families, and the future of our company. It’s your daily choices, your attention to detail, and your commitment to one another that make honors like this possible.

The post BTD Receives State and National Safety Awards appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

This marks a major milestone in BTD’s ongoing growth and innovation journey. The grand opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 30, 2025, bringing together BTD leadership, local officials, employees, and community members.

This new 335,000-square-foot facility sits on our existing Dawsonville campus, adjacent to the original 162,000-square-foot building acquired in 2015. With this expansion, we’re significantly increasing production capacity and strengthening our ability to deliver flexible, high-quality solutions to our growing customer base.

“It’s more than just a new building—it’s a reflection of our commitment to growth, innovation, and above all, to our customers,” said Paul Gintner, president of BTD Manufacturing. “By expanding our capabilities, we are better positioned to support large-scale projects, deliver faster turnaround times, and continue providing the high-quality, reliable service our customers count on.”

The original Dawsonville facility continues to provide a full suite of services, including research and development, tooling, fabrication, stamping, welding, painting, assembly, and inventory management. The addition of the new building enhances those capabilities, allowing BTD to take on larger and more complex projects while increasing operational efficiency.

This investment also represents a strategic move to meet growing demand and deepen our relationships with customers. With expanded space, advanced technology, and increased flexibility, BTD is well-positioned to provide timely deliveries, greater responsiveness, and exceptional service.

As the Dawsonville campus grows, so does our commitment to being a trusted partner—one that brings smart solutions, dependable support, and a drive for continuous improvement to every project.

The post BTD Opens New Facility in Dawsonville, GA appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

This isn’t just a building project; it’s a vision for smarter, faster and more advanced manufacturing solutions. With a 60% increase in space for our Automation Department and the integration of additional teams, we’re doubling down on innovation, efficiency and cutting-edge solutions for our customers.

What Does This Expansion Include?

The new addition brings exciting changes that will shape the way we work and deliver value to our clients:

• 60% More Space: The manufacturing Automation Department grows from 1,900 sq. ft. to 3,300 sq. ft., creating a spacious and optimized environment for manufacturing innovation.
• Advanced Research & Development Area: A dedicated space for our team to design, build, and test robotic welders and specialized tools.
• Centralized Automation Hub: Detroit Lakes leads the way in automation in metal fabrication, building and testing robotic cells for deployment across BTD locations.
• Facilities & Equipment Projects Team: Joining the new space, this team works on projects like handrails, tugger carts and other custom solutions that keep our operations running smoothly.
• Enhanced Client Support: Expanded capabilities to work with major brands on customized tools and prototypes.

Why it Matters

Manufacturing automation isn’t just about improving efficiency; it’s about redefining what’s possible. At BTD, automation helps us:

• Deliver Smarter Solutions: By creating custom robotic tools and welders, we meet the unique production needs of our clients.
• Support End-to-End Development: From prototypes to final products, our automation capabilities enable faster, more precise outcomes.
• Boost Productivity Across Facilities: By centralizing design and testing at our Detroit Lakes Automation hub, we ensure consistent quality and performance for all BTD locations.

Driving the Future of Manufacturing Automation

From refining product designs to constructing custom robotic tools, we’re more than a metal fabrication company—we’re a trusted partner in manufacturing innovation.

The Detroit Lakes addition is set to be completed in just two months, and we can’t wait to see the impact it will have on our business, clients and industry.

Stay tuned for updates as we move into this exciting new chapter!

The post BTD Expands Detroit Lakes Manufacturing Automation Hub: Innovating for the Future appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

This award celebrates the dedication and innovation our team brings to every project.

A big reason for our success? OneBTD. This initiative unites all BTD locations under one goal: delivering consistent, high-quality results. With OneBTD, our teams collaborate seamlessly across facilities, ensuring every customer receives the same top-notch service and precision we’re known for.

Our success is fueled by the wide range of expertise we bring to the table and our commitment to constantly improving. We’ve grown from making simple parts to delivering advanced solutions, like precision tubing and custom chassis platforms, thanks to our incredible team and our top-notch R&D facility, where we can turn ideas into prototypes almost overnight. With recent investments—like a $2.5 million expansion in Georgia to boost production—we’re able to keep up with rising demand and stay efficient. With experienced employees and cutting-edge technology, we’re always finding new ways to support our cusotmers and keep their operations running smoothly.

We’re grateful to our incredible team and customers for helping us achieve this honor.

For more on what makes BTD unique, read the full article in Metals and Mining Review.

The post BTD Named 2024 Custom Metal Fabrication Company of the Year! appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Learn why he thinks BTD is a great place to build a career.

Why did you join BTD?  

Because of the many opportunities to advance within the company. BTD encourages growth and sets its employees up for success.

What did you know about manufacturing and/or BTD prior to starting here?  

I knew that BTD was a fast-paced work environment that prioritizes safety, quality and teamwork. 

Why should others want to apply to work at BTD?

BTD values its employees and goes to great lengths to show employee appreciation.   

What do you like best about working on your shift? 

There are a lot of employees on my shift with many years of experience within the company. This makes me feel like BTD is the right choice for me.

Tell me about the volunteer work you do in the community.

I find great joy in volunteering. Outside of FMSC I also volunteer at Rubey’s Pantry, Adopt a Highway, and a program that mentors people in recovery. 

The post Building a Career at BTD appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

#whyBTD-Ron Dunston, 2nd Shift Weld Lead

When Ron first joined BTD Manufacturing, he had one goal in mind: to improve his financial situation. Little did he know that his decision would lead to so much more. From the moment he set foot in the company, Ron realized that BTD offered more than just a paycheck. It provided him with unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth.

“I chose BTD because I felt I could better myself financially, but when I got here I got so much more,” he reflects. 

The company’s commitment to employee development and its supportive culture proved to be invaluable. Ron soon discovered that BTD not only cared about his role within the company but also about his growth as an individual.

He’s eagerly embraced the chances to learn and expand his skills. But beyond the technical aspects of his job, Ron finds fulfillment in being part of a team.

“I look forward to growing as a team here,” he said. “I actually enjoy coming to work and trying my best to make a difference, one person at a time.”

As he navigated his career journey at BTD, Ron realized that this was a place he could see himself retiring from. For Ron, it’s not only because BTD offered financial stability but because it provided a genuine opportunity for personal and professional growth. It became a place where he could chase his dreams, expand his horizons, and make a difference—both within the company and in his own life.

With BTD, a career becomes so much more than just a job—it becomes a path to a great future.

A Journey of Growth: Bryan’s 20 Years with BTD

Learn more about a career in manufacturing at BTD.

The post A Career in Manufacturing: Finding a Place to Thrive appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

A Journey of Growth: Bryan’s 20 Years with BTD 

When Bryan started working at BTD, he was still a high school student looking to earn some extra money. He started his journey in the Stamping department, but it was in the Tooling department that his true passion was sparked. BTD recognized his potential and awarded him a scholarship to attend Alexandria Technical and Community College for Machine, Tool, and Die.

After completing his education, Bryan returned to BTD as a toolmaker. Throughout his 20-year tenure, he has held various roles, including production support, EDM, weld fixtures, and design, and currently, he serves as a shift lead.

So, why did Bryan choose to stay with BTD for two decades? The answer is simple: the people. In addition, every day is a new challenge as he is constantly faced with exciting tasks and projects. As a result, Bryan experiences a tremendous sense of accomplishment at the end of each day.

BTD Manufacturing has provided Bryan with opportunities to expand his skills and knowledge, allowing him to explore different areas of expertise within the company. From working with various tools and technologies to leading a team, each role has contributed to his personal and professional growth.

Bryan’s story is a testament to the opportunities and growth that can be achieved through dedication, a supportive work environment and a passion for what you do.

From Shipper to Warehouse: Brad’s Journey

The post Working at BTD | Bryan’s 20 Years with BTD  appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Brad’s journey at BTD Manufacturing began when he was 16 years old when he worked in the warehouse during the summer. After moving to Arizona he continued his career in manufacturing, working in a variety of roles, including assembly and production for 10 years. Then, he decided to return to Minnesota. With the help of his brother, who also works at BTD, he remembered the great opportunities the company has to offer and once again joined the team. 

Throughout his career at BTD, Brad has held various positions in the warehouse, including shipper, planner and his current role as warehouse leader. Over the past 11 years here he’s worked every shift, gaining valuable experience and knowledge in different aspects of the warehouse operations.

When asked why he chose BTD, Brad recalled the company’s history and the belief that if you stay focused, opportunities will come your way. This has certainly proven true for him as he has progressed in his career at BTD.

So, what makes BTD a great place to work? According to Brad, it’s the wide range of career paths to choose from, allowing employees to find their niche and excel in their chosen field. Additionally, Brad feels like he is part of a successful team, and at the end of each day, he has a strong sense of accomplishment.

But it’s not just the opportunities and career growth that make BTD a great place to work.

“It’s the people I work with and the atmosphere that makes this a great place to work,” he said.

Brad believes that the supportive and friendly environment at BTD is what truly sets it apart as an excellent workplace.

Join Brad and many others in discovering the exciting career opportunities at BTD Manufacturing. With a variety of paths to choose from and a fantastic work environment, you too can find your place on the BTD team and achieve success in your career.

The post Being a Warehouse Leader at BTD appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Since 2016 BTD has landed in the list’s top three

The Fabricator, a monthly print and digital publication that focuses on the metal forming industry, has named BTD Manufacturing No. 3 on its FAB 40 list. This is the seventh consecutive year BTD has made it in the top three. 

The FAB 40 list recognizes the most successful metal fabricating operations, selecting companies based on their previous year’s reported revenue from contract and custom metalwork manufacturing. The recognition demonstrates BTD’s dedication to custom metalwork manufacturing

“Our commitment to enhancing our capabilities has helped us establish ourselves as a top fabricator, providing exceptional metalwork services to clients across various locations,” said Paul Gintner, BTD Manufacturing president. “We are excited about the future of metalwork and are dedicated to being at the forefront of innovation in the industry.”

Over the past few years, we’ve expanded our operations by incorporating an additional 110,000 square feet of facility space, which includes locations in Detroit Lakes and Lakeville in Minnesota, Washington in Illinois and Dawsonville in Georgia. To boost productivity and grow our capabilities, we’ve made significant investments in automation, robotics and production equipment. This includes the integration of various advanced tools such as press brakes, light fabrication equipment and several 10,000-watt fiber sheet lasers.

Alongside these improvements, our commitment to safety has never wavered. Our team works hard to make each of our facilities some of the safest in manufacturing and this dedication has been recognized by the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association International. The association awarded our Lakeville, Minnesota location with the 2022 Safety Award of Honor and three of our locations with the Safety Award of Merit, recognizing our adherence to excellence in safety. 

For more than 40 years BTD has been enhancing its range of custom metalwork services, which now include a range of capabilities such as metal fabrication, stamping, machining, powder coating, robotic welding and tubing. This has helped us lead the ranks as one of the top fabricators, catering to clients who require exceptional metalwork services.

The post BTD is No. 3 on the FAB 40 List! appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

This former military member had his sights set on TIG welding on the open road. But after learning about BTD, he realized his career path was leading him in a new direction. Here’s what Clay Schenck, program manager at our Detroit Lakes facility likes most about working at BTD. 

Feeling at home

After getting out of the military and attending welding school, I pretty much had my mind set on TIG welding on the road. That was until I interviewed at BTD. From the minute I set foot through the door and started the interview process I felt welcomed immediately and knew that this is the place for me. 

Professional growth and advancement

At BTD you are not just a number, you have real interactions and relationships with leadership that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. Ideas and opinions are valued, and you feel like you are part of the team. BTD not only wants to help you develop your skills in your current role, but helps you look forward to what’s in the career path ahead of you and helps you get there. 

I have been fortunate to have the leaders at BTD believe in me and the value I can add to the organization.  After starting as a welder in the Heavy Weld Department, I moved on to a Shift Lead position in Light Weld, and then most recently was promoted to Program Manager over New Product Launch for the Washington facility. I continue to look forward to my future endeavors with BTD! 

A supportive team

During my time here, my wife and I have welcomed our first child into this world and more recently lost a pregnancy. In both situations, my co-workers came around us as if we were family, not just people that you work with. This goes to show the character and caliber of people you can work with here at BTD. BTD is home for me!

Want to hear what others have to say about working at BTD? Check out our recent #whyBTD blog posts!

The post #whyBTD – Clay Schenck, program manager, Detroit Lakes, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

I thought it was a great financial opportunity out of school.

What did you know about manufacturing and/or BTD prior to starting to work here?

Absolutely nothing.  I came in with no experience and was able to learn the job with help from my team.

How have you navigated the career pathing at BTD?  Or, how has your career evolved? 

I started as a production operator and learned as much as I could to set up machines and became production setup.

How did you take advantage of training opportunities at BTD?

I absorbed as much knowledge from my trainers and co-workers in spot weld.  I plan to job shadow in the hand weld department to gain more experience.

Why should others want to apply to work at BTD?  Also, what advice do you have for them?

BTD is a respectful environment and has so many opportunities for growth and career choices.  If you are thinking about applying, you should definitely do it!

#whyBTD – Trevor Stilke, manufacturing leader, Detroit Lakes, MN

The post #whyBTD – Caitlyn Mathis, production setup, Dawsonville, GA appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Trevor started his career in Detroit Lakes, MN in 2011 and over the years has worked in many departments, including Robot weld, Welding, Fabrication and Tubing. His career at BTD has allowed him to learn a variety of skills through a variety of roles that have taken him from a production operator to a production setup to a welder. Trevor also spent time as a Shift Lead before becoming a Manufacturing Leader in 2022. Here’s what Trevor has to say about working at BTD.

What do you like best about working your shift?

The people and resources. I enjoy meeting the customers’ needs and this shift works best for my family life.

Why BTD?

I was looking for a family-orientated company that worked best for my work-home life balance. And the great pay.

Why do you think BTD is a great place to work?

BTD promotes from within the company and cares about my personal growth. I have been able to travel to other facilities for training and help the company grow.

Read more about why others have chosen a career in manufacturing at BTD.

The post #whyBTD – Trevor Stilke, manufacturing leader, Detroit Lakes, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Years ago I found out I was going to be a father and needed a stable job/career.  I was referred by an employee of BTD who is still with the company as well.

What did you know about manufacturing and/or BTD prior to starting here? 

When I first started I knew nothing about manufacturing, let alone steel manufacturing.  I did know that I worked well with manual labor and was good at working with my hands.

How have you taken advantage of the training opportunities at BTD? 

I’ve been able to work under Justin Huspek who has been a great mentor to me.  With everything he showed me and the drive to learn more and do better, I’ve been able to excel and become AWS certified.

How have you navigated the career pathing to BTD, and how has your career evolved? 

A lot of what I’ve learned has been ‘on-the-job’ learning time.  Showing myself and my team my manual work skills and work ethic, I was showing I could do the job.  I’ve been with BTD for more than 11 years starting in Blanking, Lazers, Paint, and now in Welding as a shift lead.

Why should others apply to work at BTD, and what advice do you have for them? 

BTD has been a place where I’ve been able to excel in my career and in turn, create stability and balance for my family.

#whyBTD – Keith Yonemura, L&D Lead, Detroit Lakes 

The post #whyBTD-Taylor Mundahl, Welding shift lead, Lakeville, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Keith started at BTD in April 2018 as a Sheet Laser Set Up. He came to BTD for an opportunity to work with our production laser. Since then, Keith grew into his role as Fabrication lead and in July 2022 he accepted his current position as L&D Leader. 

What do you like best about working your shift?

All of the networking and resources that are available as well as being able to spend more time with my fiancé, our farm, and dogs.

Why BTD?

BTD has become my home away from home, and I enjoy the relationships I have built in my time here and look forward to the years to come. 

Why is BTD a great place to work?

BTD offers ample opportunities for growth in not only your career but personally.

Want to hear what others like most about working at BTD?  Tayler Meyer, shift lead in Lakeville, MN shares how her role at BTD has evolved.

The post #whyBTD – Keith Yonemura, L&D Lead, Detroit Lakes appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Read the full article here.

The post The FABRICATOR Magazine Highlights BTD’s Award-Winning Safety Culture appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“We’ve made some big investments in our company over the years,” said Paul Gintner, BTD Manufacturing president. “These are critical in allowing us to stay aligned with our customers’ needs now and into the future.”

Within the last few years, we’ve added 110,000 square feet of facility space to our operations, which include locations in Detroit Lakes and Lakeville, Minnesota as well as Washington, Illinois and Dawsonville, Georgia. In addition, we’ve invested in a variety of new automation, robotic and production equipment to enhance productivity and grow our capabilities. This includes several 10,000-watt fiber sheet lasers, press brakes and light fabrication equipment.

Since our start more than 40 years ago we’ve expanded our menu of custom metalwork services to include a variety of capabilities, including metal fabrication, stamping, machining, powder coating, robotic welding and tubing. This has ensured our top place among fabricators and clients needing metalwork.

The post We’re #2 on the FAB 40 list! appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

A new 10K laser is optimizing cutting efficiency and streamlining our operations. The addition of 40- and 90-ton press brakes allow us to meet a wider range of specifications while ensuring high-quality results. And, our new dual-arm robotic welder can handle tasks simultaneously, allowing us to make more parts in less time.

Growing our light fabrication capabilities in Washington means we now have similar capabilities across all four of our production sites. Because manufacturing is about growing with our customer’s needs and figuring out how we can do that best.

Have questions about how our new equipment can meet your needs? Contact us today!

The post Aligning all four of our locations with new equipment appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“Whether it’s fabrication, tooling or our office staff, safety is the backbone of our company,” said Paul Gintner, BTD president. “Without it, we’re not able to do what we do every day.”

CNA, the endorsed business insurance carrier for FMA, sponsored the awards, which are designed to promote safety in the industry. The FMA Safety Council selects winners for its Safety Award of Honor based on a perfect safety record of no recordable injuries or illness during the reporting period.

The Safety Award of Merit is given to companies posting an injury and illness incidence rate for the reporting period that is better than the published Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) rate by 10 percent or greater, based on their NAICS code.

“We’re proud of the consistency and dedication our staff has in maintaining BTD as one of the safest companies in our industry,” said Nick Read, BTD safety coordinator.

This is the 11th consecutive year FMA has awarded BTD for its safety accomplishments. FMA has also selected BTD as a host for its safety conference on April 26 and 27 in Lakeville, Minnesota. During the conference, the company is sharing its safety journey with attendees and offering a tour of its local plant.

The post BTD Receives Safety Awards appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

The Mitsubishi 3015 GX-F 10K fiber sheet lasers feature an auto pallet changer and can be used with sheets as big as 5- by 10-feet and 2,100 pounds. They can process mild and stainless steel as thick as 1 inch as well as aluminum up to 7/8-inch thick.

The new lasers offer multiple features that enhance efficiency and quality. An auto zoom head automatically adjusts the beam size according to material type and thickness. This capability significantly reduces setup time, while ensuring stable processing that delivers consistent quality. In addition, the machine’s automatic nozzle changer can sense when a cutting nozzle is worn out and automatically replace it, minimizing maintenance downtime.

These new sheet lasers join several other machines we’ve invested in over the last two years, including tube lasers, tube benders, stamping presses and sheet lasers. We’ve also recently added 40,000 square feet to our facility in Lakeville, Minnesota, bringing our production footprint there to 416,000 square feet.

The post We’re fulfilling growing demand with new equipment appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Why did you join BTD?

I joined BTD for many reasons. If you have stepped into BTD before, you have heard of the immense amount of opportunities for growth that are given. You can ask almost anyone in a leadership position and it is almost a given that they have held multiple titles previous to the one they have and have learned so much along the way. That was exciting to me and something I wanted to be a part of! 

What did you know about manufacturing and/or BTD prior to starting to work here?

Almost nothing. Previous to coming to BTD I worked a desk job as a recruiter so I had been in a few manufacturing environments and received tours but that was the extent of it. I had never worked in one myself at any capacity. The opportunity and challenge of learning a new environment, industry and team excited me. 

How have you navigated the career pathing at BTD?  Or, how has your career evolved? 

As I previously stated, when I came into BTD, I knew almost nothing about manufacturing or BTD at all—I especially didn’t know anything about powder coating. I began to learn each section of the paint line and absorbed as much information as I could. After five months, I was promoted to a paint line shift lead and began to learn the responsibilities that came with that. I have been fortunate enough to dabble in other departments such as Assembly & Lasers so I could learn a little more about how things work shop-wide. 

Currently, I have been given the opportunity to learn more about our Learning & Development part of the business and have discovered a passion for welcoming and leading others in a new way. I hope to continue to grow with BTD and make a long career here. 

How did you take advantage of training opportunities at BTD?

Just asking! I’ve had numerous conversations with Learning & Development, my manufacturing leader and manager, and even Human Resources about what I need to learn about BTD to grow and how to get there. From there, the training opportunities were given. My manufacturing leader, Taylor Western, has also done an excellent job at scheduling monthly training for us so we can continue to grow, and she’s always willing to teach when we want to learn something new. 

Why should others want to apply to work at BTD?  Also, what advice do you have for them?

You are not your employee number at BTD. My leaders, managers, director of operations, quality, COO and even the president know me as Taylor. I have never felt disposable or replaceable at BTD. From day one you are trained by a real person and not a computer screen. The opportunities to learn and grow not only as an employee but as a person, are endless. 

Ask lots of questions, show up every day on time and work hard. And get a comfortable pair of safety toes…you’re going to need them. 

The post #whyBTD – Taylor Meyer, shift lead, Lakeville, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

• Shift differentials of 20-30%
• Paid weekly
• Starting wages up to $23.49/hour
• $5,000 sign-on bonuses (on select roles)
• 104(k) match and discounted stock

See all of our open positions and join us!

Dec. 9 | 10:00am – 2:00pm

Hampton Inn & Suites

3445 Court St

Pekin, IL

The post See us at the Pekin, Illinois Job Fair appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

When Kumar Seokaran moved to MN in 2020 he was looking for a solid career with a good company. He had previous experience in manufacturing with John Deere so when the opportunity to work at BTD came along it was a good fit. But during his time here, he’s found more than a job, he found a career. 

“BTD provides so much room for employees to grow,” Kumar said. “They also have rewarded my hard work ethic.”

When presented with opportunities to learn something new Kumar always approaches it with eagerness. 

“We needed someone on press brake. He was willing to learn, and we were willing to train,” said Jake Riddle, manufacturing manager.  

It’s that open mind and excitement for learning that will continue to take Kumar where he wants and how far he wants at BTD.

“BTD provides great opportunities with much room for advancement,” he said. “Everything they promised in the interview, they did. It has been more than I expected and it keeps going.” 

The post #whyBTD – Kumar Seokaran – production setup, Lakeville, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Mike Lulay is the machining department lead at our Washington, Illinois facility. When he joined our team 11 years ago he brought a wealth of knowledge with him from his 12 years of machining experience. Even so, joining BTD was a new experience and one he embraced. 

“I still felt like a fish out of water when I got here,” he said. 

Mike adds that he likes working off-shifts because it allows him to really gauge what he’s doing.  He’s able to keep to his work while paying attention to those he’s mentoring on the job.  He also appreciates the laid-back feel and slower pace that comes with working off-shifts as it allows him to ensure quality is where it needs to be. 

“BTD is a place where I can definitely grow and continue to do so,” he said. “ When you come to a company with 12 years experience already and you can still improve and find more experience, that is where I want to be.” 

The opportunities to learn and grow are something Mike values greatly. At BTD, he knows he can do that. 

The post #whyBTD – Mike Lulay, machining lead, Washington, IL appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

We are proud to announce the recent addition of 40,000 square feet to our Lakeville Minnesota facility! The new footprint gives us the room to do more for our customers. This includes expanding our stamping capabilities as well as growing our fabrication capacities, which will allow us to focus on increasing machine availability and broadening our automation offerings. 

The changes are part of an ongoing company-wide effort to grow with the evolving needs of our customers and the market conditions. Over the last year, BTD has added a wide variety of equipment across all four of its locations, including new fiber sheet and tube lasers, press brakes, robotic welders and tube benders. 

Market conditions are strong in the custom metal fabrication space. Continuing to improve our equipment lineup and broaden our offerings ensures we’re ready for it!

The post We’re expanding our Lakeville, MN facility! appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Desiree has been with BTD for more than 19 years starting in stamping and assembly. She went to welding school through BTD and then moved into our welding department. After that she transitioned into machining where she is currently the machining lead on the first shift from 7 am to 3 pm.

What do you like best about your shift?

The opportunity to learn with a company that is willing to work with and train you.

Why BTD? 

I had experience in machining. 

Why do you think BTD is a great place to work?

They offer competitive wages, benefits and there is a lot of pride in employees.

The post #whyBTD-Desiree Rader – machining lead, Detroit Lakes appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

To get things just right, it takes a variety of technologies, including the Solidworks® computer-aided design software, Logopress tool designer and Autoform®. With GibbsCAM®, a highly powerful and flexible programming tool, our team is also able to ensure our CNC machines make components to each customer’s exact specifications. These machines feature spindles that run as fast as 14,000 rpm and offer a vertical milling table as large as 60 by 120 inches.

Our commitment to high-quality parts expands to our tool room; we have four, wire EDM machines, five tryout presses and all the miscellaneous machines needed to support our tool builds. Our pressroom tests dies using 150-, 200-, 300-, 350- and 600-ton presses.

And when it comes to inspecting what we create, we use some highly precise equipment, including our coordinate measuring machines that provide precise measurement of parts to ensure conformance to specifications. We also take that even further with our FARO 3D measurement machine.

For more information about our Tooling department and capabilities click here.

The post BTD Tooling: Where Skilled Craftsmen Meet the Latest Technologies appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Clint has been with BTD for 10 years. He started as a production operator, worked in Set Up and is currently a shift lead in the Form & Finish department at our Detroit Lakes facility. Here are a few things Clint enjoys most about working at BTD. 

What do you like best about your shift?

Work home life balance with my daughter.

Why BTD?

I enjoy the people. The employees are like family.

Why do you think BTD is a great place to work?

You get out of BTD what you put in. The number of opportunities is great, as are the benefits and most importantly, the people!

The post #whyBTD – Clint Johnson – shift lead, Form & Finish, Detroit Lakes, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

BTD’s chief operating officer, Robert Bradford, and Jeff King, director of Tooling and Organizational Development discuss with The Fabricator magazine our company-wide dedication to safety and how we’re able to minimize injuries across all of our locations.

Read the article here.

The post The Fabricator Magazine Highlights BTD’s Dedication to Safety appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Ben has been with our Detroit Lakes, Minnesota team for six years. He started his career in research and development, then moved into fabrication where he is currently a shift lead on our second shift. 

What do you like best about working on an off shift?

It works best with my schedule. 

Why BTD?

My brother told me about the opportunities here.

Why do you feel BTD is a great place to work?

BTD invested in my personal growth and made it clear that my success is their success.

I feel like I’ve come a long way. I have been able to travel to all of the facilities for training and help with workloads. This proves BTD is One BTD. I love working here!

The post #whyBTD – Ben Branchaud – shift lead, Detroit Lakes, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

We’re excited to announce that The Fabricator, a monthly print and digital publication that focuses on the metal forming industry, has named BTD Manufacturing No. 2 on its FAB 40 list. The list recognizes the 40 most successful manufacturers based on their previous year’s reported revenue. This is the fifth year in a row BTD has landed in the top three. 

We believe our continual investments in our people, our technologies and our customers are what drive our success year after year. Recently this has included enhancing efficiencies and growing our capabilities with upgraded equipment, including our new 250-ton stamping press, a 10K fiber laser, and a 4K fiber tube laser. With 229 promotions last year we’ve also awarded the hard work and dedication of our employees who want to grow with us. 

“Congratulations to the entire BTD team,” Paul Gintner, BTD president said. “It’s the collective effort of every single one of you that gives our customers confidence in our capabilities and abilities to provide high-quality custom metalwork for their products. Your efforts are what make us all successful.”

Read the full article from The Fabricator here.

The post BTD TOPS THE FABRICATOR’S FAB 40 LIST appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Jessica Griswold is currently a shift lead on the 2nd shift, working 3-11 p.m. She started with BTD in January of 2020 while working toward her welding technology diploma at Dakota County Technical College. The opportunity allowed her to continue her studies as a full-time student while earning money and hands-on experience at BTD. 

What do you like best about working an off-shift?

I like the hours because they work better for me. The schedule can be more flexible at times, which helps with kids at home eLearning. I also like the team I work with and the perks of being on an off-shift. I receive a 12% pay increase automatically for 2nd shift pay differential and I accrue three weeks of vacation each year.

#whyBTD?

I went to college at DCTC for welding because I wanted to make a career out of it. BTD was able to offer me part-time work even though I didn’t have any manufacturing welding experience other than what I was learning in school. They were able to work with me and I have been learning ever since. I have a stable job with stable work hours. BTD treats employees right and it feels like a family here.

Why is BTD a great place to work?

They are flexible when I need it, they care about their employees, they are friendly and also very understanding. I love the people here and I love the team I work with. BTD is the best place I’ve worked at.

The post #whyBTD – Jessica Griswold, shift lead, Lakeville, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Jeff is a process trainer who enjoys mentoring others. In fact, it’s one of the reasons he likes working the off-shift from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. In addition to being more laid back, the time slot allows him to spend more one-on-one time helping colleagues further their skills. BTD’s enrichment opportunities have allowed Jeff to grow his expertise as well. He’s participated in many ongoing courses that have given him the tools to sharpen his leadership abilities. 

For Jeff, it’s more than finding pride in the work itself that drives him, it’s also feeling cared for and appreciated by others in the company. 

“I met BTD president Paul Gintner once and mentioned my sons were in the service. The next time we met, he remembered their names and asked how they were doing after deployment.”

Since then, Jeff has said he has no plans on leaving the company. 

“It makes you want to work harder, and better.”  

The post #whyBTD – Jeff Woods, process trainer, Washington, IL appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

MNDLI awarded DLHS the grant last spring and provided $90,000 to assist in creating experiences and exposure for 16- to 17-year-old students in three different areas, including advanced manufacturing. BTD partnered with DLHS to provide students with these experiences. The students work with mentors at BTD in different areas of manufacturing two to three hours each school day for a semester. They also are able to operate machines and equipment, which gives them valuable hands-on experience. Students participating in the program earn minimum wage per grant requirement and two to three credits while getting exposed to manufacturing careers they are interested in.

DLHS and BTD plan to continue this relationship indefinitely and long beyond the 2-year grant cycle. A long-term commitment to this process will assist in area workforce demands for manufacturing and provide students with high wage and high skill employment opportunities. A win-win for students, businesses and schools.

The post Supporting The Future of Manufacturing appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

What do you like best about working an off shift?

I like my co-workers and the schedule gives me the opportunities to do things during the day on my own time.

Why BTD?

Once I graduated high school I was going to take a year off of school before enrolling in college so I needed a job. I started at BTD and found I enjoyed working here and growing my career. It has opened my mind to more opportunities than what I could have achieved if I had followed through with my college plans. 

Why is BTD a great place to work?

BTD enables people to grow in different aspects of the business. I can grow a career here in the same building along with co-workers I already know.

The post #whyBTD – Keidra Anderson, shift lead, Detroit Lakes appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Mike had been working for a roofing company when a friend of his at BTD told him about the opportunities the company offered and how he felt it was a great place to work. Mike decided to apply and was hired as a production operator in the stamping department. Soon he learned this role would be a stepping stone on his career path at BTD.  After a week on the job, Mike was asked to remove a die. He had no experience with tooling, but that didn’t stop him from getting the job done—he simply taught himself how to do it. Mike went on to become a stamping setup for eight years before moving to the tooling department where he worked for another eight years as production support. From there, Mike moved into a lead position in the stamping department where he has been for the last 11 years. When BTD expanded stamping capabilities in the south, Mike took the opportunity and moved to Georgia, where he now works at our Dawsonville facility. He’s been growing with us since 1994.  It’s this type of perspective—seeing challenges as opportunities and making those opportunities available— that make BTD what it is today. Thank you, Mike for all you do. 

The post #whyBTD – Mike Krengel, Operations Shift Lead-Stamping, Dawsonville, GA appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“This is just one of several equipment improvements we’ve implemented in the last few months,” said Paul Gintner, BTD Manufacturing president. “We’re excited to see how these improvements will help us better serve our customers through high-quality parts, expanded capabilities and faster lead times.”

With the new LT7, BTD can process a variety of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel and steel with the fastest production rates and highest quality levels on the market. The machine also allows BTD to meet a wide range of customer’s specifications, from round, square and rectangular profiles to special shaped tubes, angle iron, channel and flat bar. The tube laser offers optimal cutting performance even on thick-walled steel for weld preparations and interlocking joints with a +/- 45-degree tilt.

BTD chose the machine for its capability to deliver parts with optimal accuracy and quality. The machine features an internal suction probe that can be used when processing tubes to automatically catch debris and vacuum out particles, leaving a clean, damage-free finish inside and outside of the part. The LT7’s Active Scan automatically calculates any compensations needed to ensure tolerances are achieved, regardless of misshapes or insufficient rigidity. 

In addition to the LT7 Tube Laser, the Lakeville facility also recently added a new TRUMPF 5030 10K Fiber TruLaser to its production. The addition of the new equipment demonstrates the company’s ongoing focus on improving efficiencies, expanding to meet the growing needs of customers, and broadening capabilities across all its locations.

The post BTD MANUFACTURING ADDS HIGH-PERFORMANCE TUBE LASER TO MN FACILITY appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“Our focus is always on our customers and finding ways we can best serve them,” said Paul Gintner, BTD Manufacturing president. “Improvements like the addition of this new fiber laser allows us to produce more in less time while ensuring we maintain our commitment to providing the highest quality parts to our customers.”

The TruLaser’s High Speed Eco cutting process allows it to double its rate of production when processing medium sheet thicknesses. In addition, the machine monitors the cutting process and automatically adapts parameters, resulting in optimal cutting efficiencies. 

The new laser is equipped with a CoolLine nozzle that mists water around the laser as it operates to mitigate heat from the surrounding material. This allows for cleaner and shorter sheet head entry to the part profiles and enables the machine to cut small contours. 

The addition of the new laser is a testament to the company’s ongoing focus on improving efficiencies, expanding to meet the growing needs of customers, and broadening capabilities across all its locations. BTD has increased its menu of services since its inception more than 40 years ago, expanding into a variety of custom metalwork services such as metal fabrication, stamping, machining, powder coating, robotic welding and tubing. This has put BTD in a top spot among fabricators and clients needing metalwork.

The post BTD MANUFACTURING ENHANCES EFFICIENCIES AT MN FACILITY WITH NEW FIBER LASER appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“We know our customers’ success relies on our capabilities to not only provide them with parts that meet the highest standards, but also to provide those parts as efficiently as we can. In this market space, customers are relying on improved efficiencies more than ever,” said Paul Gintner, BTD Manufacturing president.

The Georgia facility’s new stamping press is a Komatsu OBS110. The unit has a 110-ton capacity and offers optimal consistency and part quality. It features a bolster size of 27.5 inches deep by 43.375 inches wide. Its feed line maximum thickness is 0.105 inches by 18 inches to 0.165 inches by 6 inches. 

The addition of the 110-ton stamping press in Georgia comes on the heels of the installation of a 300-ton stamping press and the acquisition of a 70,000 square-foot warehouse in Buford, Georgia. These significant commitments to the Southeast illustrate BTD’s resolve for growth in the region.

The company has an ongoing focus on improving efficiencies, expanding to meet the growing needs of customers, and broadening its capabilities. Since its inception more than 40 years ago, the company has expanded into a variety of custom metalwork services such as metal fabrication, stamping, machining, powder coating, robotic welding and tubing. This menu of services has ensured BTD’s top place among fabricators and clients needing metalwork.

###

Named 2nd on The Fabricator’s FAB 40 list in 2020, BTD continues to invest in people, processes, and technology to provide first-class service to world-class brands while valuing their team members and the communities in which they live. Their success shows in more than 1,300 employees who work in BTD locations in Detroit Lakes, Minn., Lakeville, Minn., Dawsonville, Ga., Buford, Ga., and Washington, Ill.

The post BTD MANUFACTURING EXPANDS ITS METAL STAMPING CAPABILITIES IN THE SOUTHEAST appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Dual training combines a classroom-style curriculum with hands-on learning that gives our
employees the opportunities to become trained and certified with skills that would otherwise
take months to achieve. The best part is, they get to earn while they learn. Employees can
advance their careers in a variety of areas such as CNC, welding and quality control.
The state awards dual training funds to businesses with in-demand, high-growth occupations,
including advanced manufacturing, agriculture, health care services and information technology.
We are just one of 31 manufacturers being awarded.

We became a dual training employer in October 2019, launching training programs at our
Detroit Lakes and Lakeville, Minnesota locations. Since then we’ve had 16 welders participate
and earn their certificate through the American Welder Society. Once they completed the
program, those individuals were able to put their new skills to work right away.
The program is a great accompaniment to our existing employee enrichment initiatives and
programs, including BTD University, our online learning portal and Tooling U-SME, a web-based
learning resource. These tools are geared specifically to metal fabrication and are a convenient
way for operators to develop their skills on specific equipment regardless of the time of day or
location.

We’re excited to be able to offer all these opportunities that not only help our employees grow,
but also allow us to continue to provide high-quality products to our customers.
Read more about the grant here.

The post BTD Receives Dual Training Grant appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“We’re thrilled to have bumped up a spot on the list,” said Paul Gintner, BTD Manufacturing president. “We know this represents more than an outstanding year of revenue. It represents all of our hard work and dedication to being one of the best places to work and the best places for high-quality products.”

For the last three years, BTD has earned the No. 3 spot on the FAB 40 list. The company credits much of its success to its investment in its employees, technologies and services.

BTD recently became a dual-training employer, allowing several of its locations to pair a classroom-style curriculum with structured on-the-job learning, giving employees an accelerated path to certification in a variety of areas, including welding, CNC and quality assurance. The company also offers its employees several other enrichment initiatives and programs specific to metal fabrication, including its online learning portal, BTD University. 

“It all starts with our employees,” Gintner said. “We value their dedication to providing our customers with the high-quality products they come to expect from us. We want to see them thrive in their careers, an investment in them is an investment in our customers.”

In addition to employee engagement and advancement, BTD has continued its focused efforts on improving efficiencies, expanding to meet the growing needs of customers, and broadening its capabilities. The company recently opened a new 70,000-square-foot warehouse in Buford, Georgia and since its inception more than 40 years ago has expanded into a variety of custom metalwork services such as metal fabrication, stamping, machining, powder coating, robotic welding and tubing. This menu of services has ensured their top place among fabricators and clients needing metalwork. 

###

Named 2nd on The Fabricator’s FAB 40 list in 2020, BTD continues to invest in people, processes, and technology to provide first-class service to world-class brands while valuing their team members and the communities in which they live. Their success shows in more than 1,300 employees who work in BTD locations in Detroit Lakes, Minn., Lakeville, Minn., Dawsonville, Ga., Buford, Ga., and Washington, Ill. 

The post BTD MANUFACTURING RANKS NO.2 ON FAB 40 appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

I’m currently working in continuous improvement which has very open ended responsibilities and I get to work with many different facets of the company. I wanted a place that I could grow with and stay at for many years to come and I’ve found that within BTD. The opportunity to touch multiple aspects of the business has enabled me to see many different avenues for personal and professional growth within the company and also keeps me on my toes. Each day is different and everything can be improved which gives me multiple projects to work on at all times.

The post #whyBTD – Joe Napoletan CI Manager, Georgia appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

 BTD embraces change, staying on the forefront of our industry. Due to the complexity of our business, there are always ways to drive improvements to positively impact our customers and employees.  I find satisfaction in digging into data to identify areas for improvement, working with cross-functional teams to explore solutions and execute change.  

The fast paced environment at BTD ensures that no two days are ever the same. Being a custom metal fabricator means that we constantly align and realign with our customers’ changing needs, keeping life at BTD exciting.

The post #whyBTD – Elisabeth (Beth) Omang Dir. of Sales and Operations Planning, Detroit Lakes appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“This is a great way for us to continue to invest in our Minnesota residents and the talent we already have here at BTD,” said Al Carlson, BTD vice president of HR, Talent Management and Leadership Development. “We want to provide our people with a solid career path, not just a place to work.”

The PIPELINE Program awards businesses in the state grants to train and certify employees with skills that would otherwise take months to achieve. Sixteen BTD employees at the Detroit Lakes and Lakeville locations have participated in the dual-training program since its start in October. The employees contributed 80 hours over two weeks in both classroom and hands-on training on-site to earn their American Society of Welders certification. The employees are able to put their new skills to work right away and ensure the quality of BTD products continues to meet the highest standards. 

“Many of our customers are training and certifying their employees with the same credentials,” said BTD president, Paul Gintner. “This is just one more way we can align with our client’s expectations to continue to provide high-quality metalwork.”

The PIPELINE Program works alongside many of BTD’s existing employee enrichment initiatives and programs, including BTD University, the company’s online learning portal. The portal is used in conjunction with Tooling U-SME, a web-based learning resource for manufacturing roles. The online tools, which are geared specifically to metal fabrication, are a convenient way for operators to develop their skills on specific equipment regardless of the time of day or location. 

“Our goal is to get our employees thinking long term and how all the resources can help them determine where they want to go next and what their future holds,” Carlson said. “It benefits employees, customers and the company as a whole.” 

BTD has implemented the PIPELINE Dual-Training Program at its two Minnesota locations and looks forward to implementing a similar program at its Illinois and Georgia locations. 

Named 3rd on The Fabricator’s FAB 40 list in 2019, BTD continues to invest in people, processes, and technology to provide first-class service to world-class brands while valuing their team members and the communities in which they live. Their success shows in more than 1,300 employees who work in BTD locations in Detroit Lakes, Minn., Lakeville, Minn., Dawsonville, Ga., Buford, Ga., and Washington, Ill.

The post BTD Manufacturing Becomes PIPELINE Dual-Training Employer appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

One of the reasons I feel BTD is a great place to work is because of their commitment to employee growth. I have personally experienced multiple job changes throughout my career and have learned greatly from all of them. Whether a potential employee is starting as a student, construction worker, farmer, truck driver or other occupation, your commitment to personal growth will determine where the path takes you within BTD.

The post #whyBTD – Abe Tappe Director of Sales, North Region in Detroit Lakes appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

At BTD, our values guide us and differentiate us in the marketplace. Living out our values of Integrity, Safety, People, Performance and Community starts with our leadership and is carried forward at each level of our organization. From delivering on our promises to keeping everyone safe and from acting on opportunities to improving the communities where we work and live, our BTD values are not just words on a website; they are the driving force in how we do what we do.

The post #whyBTD – Jim Enneking Controller, Lakeville appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

The post Finalist at the Manufacturing Excellence Awards appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

The post BTD Honored at Splash Awards appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

When our customers grow, we grow with them, from square footage and equipment to the people who make it all happen. Here are just a few of the improvements we’ve been working on in our Georgia facilities:

Room to Grow

We’ve added 70,000 square feet of space with the opening of our Buford warehouse—that is nearly three-quarters the size of the average city block! The expanded area ensures we’re poised to meet the growing needs of our customers. With the move of our warehouse to Buford, we have rearranged the production floor to optimize production flow and drive efficiencies. 

Expanded Capabilities

A newly added 300-ton servo press with a high-speed feedline allows us to process about 30,000 lbs of coiled steel daily out of our Georgia production facility. In addition to our stamping expansion, we’ve upgraded our 4K fiber laser to 6K fiber laser, which enables optimum cutting speeds.

Improved Efficiencies

Sometimes the best efficiency improvement ideas come from our BTD team members. One of the most recently implemented improvements was utilizing our dual-arm robot to eliminate a hand-welding operation within a high-volume production part.  

Cost Savings

Little things add up, and when it comes to consumables this couldn’t be truer. We are dedicated to finding opportunities to be more sustainable and cost conscious with everyday supplies and materials. Fitting each person with properly sized gloves and establishing a reasonable replacement time, puts us on track to cut our annual glove costs nearly in half. 

 Employee Engagement

We are laser focused on our customers and their needs, but we couldn’t do it without great employees who feel valued. Our talent solutions initiative ensures we have a regular, open dialogue with each employee about their career goals. These ongoing one-on-ones ensure people are aligned with their interests and skill-sets. This alignment ensures that as BTD grows with its customers, our employees grow with us. 

The post Let’s Talk Shop-James Vogt, Dir. of Operations Georgia appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

#WhyBTD? Because BTD reaches out to the community and provides hands on experiences for STEM students in local schools to learn, grow and build tangible skills. BTD is a company that if you are willing to show up and work hard, the opportunities are endless because a fast pace and limitless opportunities are the rewards for your hard work.

The post #whyBTD – Tom Fernelius Manufacturing Leader, Lakeville appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

For me, BTD has allowed financial stability for both myself and my family. BTD also has given me the opportunity for personal growth. I have been in five different roles throughout the organization – each equipping me with different experiences that have broadened my knowledge of the business and increased my ability to progress within the company.

The post #whyBTD – Josh Ulschmid Sales Account Manager – Detroit Lakes, Minnesota appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Thank you to our employees who graciously give their time and energy to help support future generations of Minnesotans!

The post BTD Receives award from MN Association of Agriculture Educators appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“Minnesota is known for great manufacturers in a variety of industries,” says BTD President Paul Gintner. “To be a finalist for this award puts us in some world-class company.”

“We’ve had great working relationships with many other great manufacturers, supplying them with our services and metalwork products,” says Gintner. “We especially want to thank our Minnesota-based manufacturing customers who have supported us during our first 40 years of business.”

Having recently been named the 3rd largest United States manufacturer in The Fabricator’s FAB40 list, BTD is no stranger to accolades. With their continued commitment to customer success and innovation, the BTD company culture continues to push for excellence.

“Status quo doesn’t exist at BTD,” says Gintner. “We strive for a culture of excellence and we expect employees to drive for that every day. That’s why we invest in our employees because we need them to be their best. At BTD, we offer extensive training, career paths and opportunities for advancement so they can deliver our vision to be our customers’ first choice in metalwork.”

Over the last 40 years, BTD has expanded into a variety of custom metalwork services such as metal fabrication, stamping, machining, powder coating, robotic welding and tubing. This menu of services has ensured their top place among fabricators and clients needing metalwork. Named 3rd on The Fabricator’s FAB40 list in 2019, BTD, an Otter Tail Corporation company, continues to invest in people, processes, and technology to provide first-class service to world-class brands while valuing their team members and the communities in which they live. Their success shows in more than 1,300 employees who work in BTD locations in Detroit Lakes, Minn., Lakeville, Minn., Dawsonville, Ga., Buford, Ga., and Washington, Ill. 

The post BTD Manufacturing finalist for Manufacturer of Excellence appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“At BTD, we’re continuing to invest in our employees, our technology and our services,” says BTD President Paul Gintner. “It’s paying off in growth as more world-class OEMs look to us to provide them the parts and service very few manufacturers can provide.”

Centered on the vision of ‘One BTD’, the company strives to ensure each location provides their clients a seamless experience. This mindset of excellence combined with hard work, innovation and acquisition has led to extensive growth in more than just profits. 

Employees seek out BTD as an employer of choice because of the great corporate culture and a commitment to advancing individuals along with the local communities in which BTD operates.

“Growth is about more than profits, it’s about making life better for our employees so they can deliver on our vision to be our customers’ first choice in metalwork,” says Gintner. “To deliver on ‘One BTD’ we need every team member engaged, excited and advancing themselves along with our company.” 

Currently celebrating 40 years in business, BTD has no plans on slowing down. Moving up one rank on The Fabricator FAB 40 list has only increased their motivation to keep climbing the ranks.

“We are excited to celebrate the growth we’ve experienced,” says Gintner. “We’re at a great point in our company’s history, but this is only the beginning of our commitment to provide first-class metalwork for world-class brands.”

Over the last 40 years, BTD has expanded into a variety of custom metalwork services such as metal fabrication, stamping, machining, powder coating, robotic welding and tubing. This menu of services has ensured their top place among fabricators and clients needing metalwork. 

Named 3rd on The Fabricator’s FAB 40 list in 2019, BTD continues to invest in people, processes, and technology to provide first-class service to world-class brands while valuing their team members and the communities in which they live. Their success shows in more than 1,300 employees who work in BTD locations in Detroit Lakes, Minn., Lakeville, Minn., Dawsonville, Ga., Buford, Ga., and Washington, Ill. 

The post BTD Manufacturing Continues Climbing the Ranks appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Growing as a leader:  BTD has leadership development training at every level of the organization from individual contributors to senior leadership.  

Learning New Skills: When I started with BTD I knew very little about metal fabrication. BTD has invested in me and taught me the in’s and out’s of metal fabrication and the industry. I’ve had the opportunity to learn about everything from cutting operations to welding to assembly!  

Bettering our Community: BTD offers a number of ways to get involved helping the community, anywhere from on site blood drives to participating Feed My Starving Children where you pack meals for needy families. 

BTD provides all employees with opportunity and that is my #whyBTD

The post #whyBTD – Jonathan Boerger Manufacturing Manager, Washington, Illinois appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“Detroit Lakes has just been a great community for us, and we’re hoping after 40 years in Detroit Lakes, they’re proud to have us too,” said BTD President Paul Gintner.

The post 40 years and counting: BTD celebrates 40 years in business this month appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Talking over the loud buzz of machinery inside the metals lab at Detroit Lakes High School on Monday and wearing a protective green overcoat and safety goggles, the senior said his two older brothers already work for BTD, and he plans to do the same.

In-between drilling and assembling parts for a tugger cart project he and his classmates are working on, Renner explained how he’s gaining real-world work experience while he’s still in high school, before he even hits the BTD manufacturing floor.

Read more on the Detroit Lakes Tribune.

The post Weld-done: Detroit Lakes welding students create tugger carts for BTD appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

“Our founders recognized that a commitment to our communities is necessary while building a great company for our employees,” says BTD President Paul Gintner. “Growth is about more than profits, it’s about making life better for our employees so they can deliver on our vision to be our customers’ first choice in metalwork. This is why our anniversary celebrations are centered around community service and employee appreciation.”

Throughout the month of May, BTD employees are engaged in community service projects wearing ‘BTD Blue’ featuring a special anniversary logo. The company will serve appreciation meals and ice cream to employees as they rock out to classic tunes from 40 years ago during 40-minute breaks with chances to win prizes.

“We are excited to celebrate the growth we’ve experienced over the last 40 years through hard work, innovation, and acquisition,” says Gintner. “We’re at a great point in our company’s history, but this is only the beginning of our commitment to provide first-class metalwork for world-class brands.”

Bismarck Tool and Die was founded in 1979. The following year, headquarters moved to Detroit Lakes, Minn. to better serve regional clients. Years later, as the business grew beyond its tool and die roots, Bismarck Tool and Die shortened their moniker to BTD. Over the last 40 years, BTD has expanded into a variety of custom metalwork services such as metal fabrication, stamping, machining, powder coating, robotic welding and tubing. This menu of services has ensured their top place among fabricator’s and clients needing metalwork.

Named 4th on The Fabricator’s Fab 40 list in 2018, BTD continues to invest in people, processes, and technology to provide first-class service to world-class brands while valuing their team members and the communities in which they live. Their success shows in more than 1,300 employees who work in BTD locations in Detroit Lakes, Minn., Lakeville, Minn., Dawsonville, Ga., Buford, Ga., and Washington, Ill.

The post BTD Manufacturing celebrates 40 years of innovation and growth appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

 BTD embraces change, staying on the forefront of our industry. Due to the complexity of our business, there are always ways to drive improvements to positively impact our customers and employees.  I find satisfaction in digging into data to identify areas for improvement, working with cross-functional teams to explore solutions and execute change.  

The fast paced environment at BTD ensures that no two days are ever the same. Being a custom metal fabricator means that we constantly align and realign with our customers’ changing needs, keeping life at BTD exciting.

The post #whyBTD – Elisabeth (Beth) Omang Dir. of Sales and Operations Planning, Detroit Lakes appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

The post BTD ACQUIRES IMPULSE MANUFACTURING appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

The post BTD RANKS #3 ON THE FABRICATOR’S 2015 FAB 40 appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

The post JOIN US FOR OUR NOV. 3RD DAWSONVILLE JOB FAIR appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.