Today we’d like to introduce you to Douglas Zwiener.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For over 40 years, Mechanical Power has been a full-service importer and distributor of standard and customer power transmission products. We take the hassle out of Global Sourcing for our OEM customers. This means if an equipment manufacturer (OEM) has a special design need for a production part, Mechanical Power will find the right factory to make the quality part the customer needs. We may bring in 6 or 12 months of their product specifically for them, quality inspect it, and release it through the future. We then stay on top of when we should reorder the product to make certain the OEM always has the products they need for their production lines.
Mechanical Power has a long tradition and a proven record of providing innovative solutions to assembly and manufacturing challenges coupled with a service-driven philosophy that has earned the respect of both customers and suppliers.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Mostly a smooth road. Good employees, customers and suppliers all working together to do the right thing is key to a cohesive service organization. Obviously, we have the normal issues with occasional quality issues, industry downturns or any other normal small business problems. But these are more annoyances that need to be addressed and resolved- – not necessarily struggles. If a problem arises, we look at the process and try to find out where the process let us down. People make mistakes- but good processes can keep the frequency and impact of these mistakes to a minimum. We are ISO 9001:2015 certified.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Mechanical Power – what should we know?
We take the hassle out of Global Sourcing industrial components for our OEM customers.
We tend to specialize in power transmission products- which means bearings, sprockets, chain, motors, clutches, sheaves. But we are also known as problem solvers (we have 4 engineers) providing solutions with castings, forgings, etc.
I am most proud of the employees who have joined Mechanical Power and are part of a cohesive team. Our customers and vendors feel it and it makes us strong.
What sets us apart- we are wedded to a complete service model. Not a product model.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
The Renaissance Executive Forum has been extremely helpful in assisting me in setting direction and goals. This is a group of CEOs and business leaders who meet monthly to help each other in addressing business problems.
My family is my strongest support network. They are there for me and I know that everything will be ok.
My EVP, Chris DeFranceschi, has helped steer the Company in a strong direction instilling accountability and processes into the Company.
Jim Dorn founded the Company 40 years ago and continues to provide his unwavering support to me and all the employees of Mechanical Power.
Contact Info:
- Address: 135 Kerry Lane
Wauconda, IL 60084 - Website: www.mechanicalpower.net
- Phone: 847-487-0070
- Email: dzwiener@mechanicalpower.net
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