Regal Celebrates 30th Anniversary in Black River Falls
Monday, October 1st, 2018 -- 8:00 AM
(JoDee Brooke, Banner Journal) -This year marks the 30th anniversary of Regal coming to the Black River Falls area.According to JoDee Brooke of the Banner Journal, originally built in 1988 as Leeson, the company was acquired by Regal Beloit in 2000. Today, Regal’s Black River Falls plant is one of its 60 global plants. Regal began operating as a winding facility. It underwent expansions in 1994, 1998 and again in 2003. Regal manufactures electric motors. These days, an average of 1,450 motors leave the Black River Falls’ Regal facility, along with 50 to 75 sub-fractional motors, every day. It was back in the 90s, Regal shipped its millionth motor. Regal has worked consistently to establish greater efficiency and technology advancement to improve profitability. Regal has incorporated robotics into its production, freeing up employees to do value-added jobs. It just recently completed installation of its “Pick-to-Light” system that allows improved efficiency in compiling the components that go into building each of Regal’s motors.
As a member of the Regal’s Continuous Improvement team, Ginger Heath explained it is that team that works with plant employees to keep the facility looking good. “It’s inviting,” shared Heath. “We pride ourselves on having a clean and welcoming facility. We consistently work on safety and sustainability issues. All areas of the plant share their ideas.” Today, Regal employs 230 people at its Black River Falls plant. Of the original 15 employees three are still working at the plant. In recognition of its 30th anniversary, employees enjoyed a number of special events, including dress-up for Hawaiian Day, 80s Day and Hero Day. A company picnic was also planned.
“We have also been working with ideas on how we can attract and retain employees,” shared Heath. “We recently remodeled our break room. We built a weight room where employees can come on their breaks to work out. We have our employees complete a survey, asking them, ‘Do you enjoy working here?’ Our score is improving.” On the wall of Regal’s break-room is the inscription, “Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.