Five years ago, JELD-WEN's Components facility in Klamath Falls, Oregon, was working to improve key areas of its operation. Today, the facility is one of the company’s strongest examples of what's possible when employees embrace continuous improvement, invest in safety and work together toward a common goal.
The facility, which manufactures wood components used in JELD-WEN products across North America, has undergone a significant transformation driven by advances in manufacturing investments, employee engagement and a relentless focus on operational excellence.
"The team takes pride in delivering on commitments and contributing to a workplace that feels like more than just a job," said Plant Manager Shane Balsz.
Investing in the future
Over the past four and a half years, the Klamath Components team has modernized operations through investments in manufacturing technology, equipment and process improvements.
These changes have helped improve efficiency, strengthen product quality and position the facility for long-term success.
But the transformation extends beyond equipment.
The team’s commitment to finding better ways of working each day has created a culture where continuous improvement is part of how business gets done.
Safety is a shared commitment
As the team continues to make progress across the facility, perhaps nowhere is that progress more visible than in safety.
Five years ago, the facility was considered a focus site. Today, it has achieved a Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) of 2.33, pushing JELD-WEN closer to its global goal of a TRIR less than 1.0 by 2030.
That improvement has been powered by employee ownership and engagement. Team members have completed nearly 1,500 Stop Work observations this year, helping identify and address potential hazards before incidents occur.
"We don't just talk about safety. We do it," Shane said.
The result is a workplace where employees are empowered to look out for one another and where safety remains a shared responsibility across the plant.
