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KEVIN GUNDERSON Estimator / Job Planner Innovize, Inc.
Kevin Gunderson went to work in the manufacturing field right after high school. He became a valuable associate by applying himself, learning on the job and eagerly contributing. He enjoyed school, but was not interested in attending college until a few years ago. Fellow associates and advancement opportunities changed his mind.“ I’ ve become a good student because of my mentors at Innovize. I’ ve become more invested in the business side and have wanted to improve and learn more. I’ m now working toward my Business Administration degree at Century College.”
Innovize, a contract manufacturer in the medical industry, offers product development and manufacturing services for personal care, patient care, diagnostics and the electronics markets. Its clientele includes 19 of the top 25 medical device companies worldwide as well as start-ups. Gunderson, in his position since 2008, contributes his
SUCCESS STORIES
skills to a team that costs and plans for the development and manufacturing of products such as diabetic strips, infantcare products, wound care dressings and personal care products.
Gunderson says,“ Innovize products range from medical components to full medical devices including sterilization services. Without a doubt the most rewarding aspect of my job is working in collaboration with others on projects that improve people’ s lives. Our devices provide comfort to those in pain and contribute to lifesaving technologies.”
Innovize manager, Jim Gaffney, explains Gunderson’ s success:“ Kevin has really taken the time to invest in himself through his continuing education degree program, and it shows through his dedication, thoughtfulness and engagement on the job.”
ANDREW LARSON CNC Milling Specialist Mold Craft, Inc.
The elements of Andrew Larson’ s career success were shaped under the guidance of his father and continued forming years later in his uncle’ s machine shop.“ I landed in my position as a CNC Milling
Specialist in large part due to my dad. As a child growing up, I would help my �������������������������������������� name it, he fixed it. I was mechanically inclined, and as I grew older, I had a desire to create things from scratch with an attention to detail and the drive to be a perfectionist.
Larson, whose work is about attention to detail and planning, says,“ On a daily basis I’ m responsible for setting up multiple cutting tools, downloading mill programs to my machine, programming the robot to change out parts and cutters for my machine to run all night and use specialized equipment to inspect the completed work. I feel a huge sense of accomplishment working at Mold Craft, knowing the work we do is saving lives.”
Mold Craft produces precision injection molds primarily for the medical industry, from diabetes care to implantable devices to minimally invasive surgical tools. Additionally, the company – in business for over 50 years – has clients in telecommunications and other industries. The company’ s strength is in designing and building molds that require extensive engineering using tightly toleranced(±. 0001”) CNC machining, CNC sinker and wire electric discharge machining( EDM) work, grinding and polishing. One ten-thousandth of an inch(. 0001) is 1 / 40th the thickness of a piece of paper.
Mold Craft Co-Owner and VP of Engineering, Justin McPhee, says,“ Andrew brings value to Mold Craft not only by holding the tightest tolerances in the industry and excellent job planning skills, but also by his positive attitude and willingness to help wherever needed in the shop.” continues on page 32
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