Meet JV Manufacturing: Stories from Our Longest-Serving Employees

Behind every part produced and every die assembled at JV Manufacturing are the people who’ve made it all happen — some of them for more than three decades. Their dedication, pride in their craft, and deep connection to the company have helped shape JV into what it is today.

As we celebrate 50 years in the manufacturing business, we’re shining a light on a few of our longest-serving team members. Their stories offer a powerful glimpse into JV’s history — one built on loyalty, hard work, and the evolution of American manufacturing.

The Faces Behind 5 Decades of Excellence

John Campbell: Spares Service Technician & Die Maintenance

When John first walked through JV Manufacturing’s doors in 1988, he started his journey as a Surface Grinder. Today, after 37 years of dedicated service, he’s evolved into a Spares Service Technician and Die Maintenance Specialist.

His proudest moment came during his time as a CNC grinding lead, when a supervisor told him he “ran the most efficient department” — a testament to John’s commitment to excellence.

“Don’t be afraid to work and keep an open mind,” John advises the next generation. It’s simple wisdom that has served him well through nearly four decades of technological advancement and organizational change.

Dave Campbell: Surface Grinder

Before joining JV, Dave Campbell worked in the oil and gas industry as a welder for a large, well-known company. When he made the move to JV in 1989, he began as a surface grinder – a role he continues to hold today. Over the years, he has occasionally stepped in for welding and machine work, but grinding has remained his primary craft.

Dave has seen plenty of change during his time at JV. He notes the management approach has evolved, bringing more structure to day-to-day operations. He also appreciates the impact of technological advancements like the introduction of CNC grinding, which made the job more precise and efficient.

When asked about his favorite memories, Dave smiles at the thought of light-hearted moments on the shop floor – like the time a skunk wandered into the parking lot, sending coworkers running in all directions. Working alongside his brothers at JV is another highlight he recalls fondly. 

His advice to new employees is direct and honest: “If you like it, stick with it and keep it up. If you don’t like it, find the next thing. No job is for one person.” After 35 years, Dave knows a thing or two about finding a good fit and making it last.

Rob VanTine: Die Assembly

Rob’s journey from the tool room to die assembly spans 35 years of unwavering commitment. He takes pride in the trust he has earned from both management and his peers to handle almost any task at JV.

Over the years, he has seen the company evolve in how it is managed, with leadership and processes adapting to support growth and innovation. Through it all, Rob's commitment has remained strong. “Take pride in being a JV employee,” he advises, “and do your best every day.

Rob says his memories range from serious dedication to light-hearted moments over the intercom that brought laughter to the shop floor and boosted morale during busy times.

Ken Smith: Lead Inspector

Ken’s journey at JV is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and growth. He began as a janitor in 1988 and steadily worked his way up to become the lead inspector for JV’s second shift. His career reflects a deep commitment to doing quality work and continuously improving.

One of Ken’s most meaningful memories is also one of the simplest. He recalls the moment JV’s founder gave him a pat on the back and told him he was doing a good job. “For me, that validation meant a lot,” Ken says. It was a brief gesture, but one that left a lasting impact.

Ken’s advice for the next generation at JV is a quote he tries to live by: "The good job we do today ensures our work tomorrow." He believes in the value of consistent effort and pride in workmanship. He also reflects on the many changes over the years, particularly in attitudes and workplace culture, and recalls moments that were both challenging and unforgettable—including helping rush a coworker to the emergency room after a serious injury.

Ken’s story is a reminder of how far hard work and a strong sense of responsibility can take you.

Ed Olenchak: Quality Supervisor

Ed’s transition from Surface Grinder to quality supervision over 34 years reflects both personal growth and JV’s evolution. He witnessed firsthand how “all the advancements in automation, machines and equipment, computers, and software” have transformed manufacturing. As he puts it, “what was new this year is almost outdated the next year.”

When we asked Ed about his favorite memory, his answer captured the essence of JV’s culture. As a new Surface Grinder, he asked JV’s founder about a part he was working on. Not only did Mr. Vecchi provide a detailed answer, but weeks later, he took Ed to the pressroom to see that very part in action, and explained the entire process from start to finish.

“I could tell he genuinely enjoyed his work and the processes we had at JV,” Ed recalls. That experience inspired him to always understand not just what he was working on, but also how it functioned in the bigger picture.

Ed’s advice for the next generation: “Always take pride in your work and find ways to contribute.”

The DNA of JV Manufacturing

These five stories reveal the cultural DNA that has sustained JV Manufacturing for half a century. Three key themes emerge:

1. Continuous Learning and Adaption

From John Vecchi taking time to teach a new employee, to workers transitioning from manual grinding to CNC operations, the commitment to learning runs deep at JV.

2. Family-Oriented Culture

Whether it’s a pat on the back from the founder or the trust earned from peers, relationships matter at JV. These aren’t just coworkers; they’re people who rush to help in a crisis and share their decades of experience.

3. Pride in Craftsmanship

Every employee speaks of pride: pride in efficiency, in trust, in understanding the whole process, in doing the best job possible every single day.

Looking Ahead: Wisdom for the Next Generation

As JV Manufacturing embarks on the next chapter, these veteran employees offer a roadmap for success:

• Embrace hard work without fear
• Keep an open mind as technology and processes evolve
• Study what makes the company successful and build on that foundation
• Take pride in your contributions, no matter how small
• Support your colleagues because their success is your success
• Never stop learning for the customer

These aren’t just employees with long tenure, they’re also keepers of institutional knowledge – and the values that built JV Manufacturing continue to guide its future. Their combined years of experience remind us that while technology may change, the fundamentals of success remain constant: dedication, continuous improvement, and genuine care for both the work and the people who rely on it.

Having just marked 50 years of JV Manufacturing, we celebrate our employees – who ensure that when they leave for the day, they’ve given their best. Our employees are the true foundation of our success, and their legacy will guide us for the next 50 years and beyond.