Meet Ronnie Springer, who joined John Zink in 2008, starting as a skilled machinist and developing into his current role as manufacturing manager. Passionate about empowering his team, Ronnie focuses on removing obstacles and fostering individual growth. Aligned with John Zink’s values, he thrives in the business’ culture of innovation and collaboration, leveraging the KES network to drive success.
Can you share what attracted you to John Zink and describe your current responsibilities?
I joined John Zink in July 2008, drawn by its reputation as a privately held company known for its workplace culture. In my current role, I collaborate closely with my team to achieve daily production goals, remove barriers that hinder productivity, and focus on developing each team member to reach their personal and professional potential.
What do you find most rewarding about your role, and is there anything about it that might surprise people
The most rewarding aspect of my job is how closely the company's values align with my own, particularly when it comes to supporting my employees' growth. Many might be surprised to learn that my primary responsibility as a supervisor isn't just about departmental performance. It's about fostering individual development by creating personalized plans that align each employee's unique ambitions and talents with business needs. I also ensure they are in roles that match their strengths and give them the decision rights to take ownership of their work, which makes my role both meaningful and fulfilling.
What has your career journey at John Zink been like, and how has it shaped your growth?
My career at John Zink has been a journey of continuous growth and learning. Starting as a machinist in the mill center, I quickly expanded my expertise across machining centers and began training others. I later transitioned to assisting leads, which prepared me to take on roles as a lead, supervisor, and now manufacturing manager. Each step has offered unique challenges and opportunities, shaping my leadership skills and professional development.
How would you describe the culture of John Zink?
The culture at John Zink is one of empowerment, where employees are encouraged to take ownership of their areas and are provided with the tools and training to maximize their potential.
If you could give a TED Talk on one thing you’ve learned at John Zink, what would it be? Why?
If I could give a TED Talk on one thing I've learned at John Zink, it would be about not putting people in a box based on preconceived ideas. We believe that every person has a unique set of gifts and, when given the right opportunity, they can achieve more than they’re often credited for. I’ve seen firsthand how individuals can thrive and even become great leaders when placed in roles that truly align with their strengths.
How does being part of the Koch Engineered Solutions network enhance your experience and opportunities?
It allows me to leverage Koch's extensive network and portfolio, which spans various industries and includes people from diverse backgrounds. In my opinion, this is a resource that very few, if any, businesses can match. It provides unique insights and opportunities for collaboration that significantly contribute to our success.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future direction of John Zink?
What excites me most about the future direction of our business is our commitment to innovation and the principle of self-destruction, which drives us to continually reinvent the business to meet the evolving demands of our customers.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
If I could travel anywhere in the world, I would choose Israel because of its rich and diverse culture. The history, traditions, and unique cultural experiences make it a fascinating destination for me.
