NEW Manufacturing Insights

Author: Kate Bruns

NEW Manufacturing Insights is a collaboration between the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance (NEWMA) and Insight on Manufacturing (IOM) magazine, highlighting issues and opportunities for manufacturers in the 18-county New North region in Northeast Wisconsin. Hosted by NEWMA Executive Director Ann Franz and IOM Editor Kate Bruns featuring guests from across the region, new episodes will be released on Thursdays. Get a quick overview of the latest NEWMA and Insight programs and events, take a behind-the-scenes look at IOM cover stories and features, and enjoy leadership tips and fun facts you can use to strengthen your manufacturing business, grow your network and advance your career.
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Language: en

Genres: Business, Business News, Management, News

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Ep. 119: Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Robinson Inc.
Episode 119
Wednesday, 15 April, 2026

Sam Thomas, president of De Pere-based Robinson, Inc., joins Insight's Kate Bruns and NEWMA's Ann Franz on this week's episode to talk more about his company's history and future, including its recent recognition as Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year in the "large" manufacturer category. Thomas, who is also featured in this month's issue of Insight on Business with fellow Northeast Wisconsin MOTY award recipient Spark Ops Metalworks, says 2026 is likely the last year Robinson will be in the "large" manufacturer category as it quickly approaches 1,000 employees and prepares to open its fifth manufacturing facility -- in Altoona, Iowa, marking Robinson's first presence outside the state of Wisconsin.Read the Insight story here: Two New North companies earn Manufacturer of the Year honors | Manufacturing | insightonbusiness.comHear more from Thomas, including what he believes has been key to his company's growth and what he considers his best leadership insight, by listening to this week's full episode. Thank you to Stoke RGA for sponsoring this and all 2026 episodes of NEW Manufacturing Insights. Learn more about our sponsor at stokerga.com.