June 2025 Newsletter - Knapp and Air Logic

Andrea O'Dell
3 days ago
2 min read

Happy 80/50 Anniversary Knapp and Air Logic!

Do You Know Where You Work?

Knapp - The year is 1945. Fred Knapp, along with his three sons —Bob, Ray, and Rich —starts an engraving company in the basement of their home. They create steel marking stamps used in items ranging from nameplates to airport signage. Only 10 years later, Fred Knapp Engraving relocates to what is now our tool room, a 2,400-square-foot building, marking the first of many significant growth milestones. In 1961, our plastic injection molding was added. In the years leading up to the Air Logic division purchase, Knapp acquires the neighboring Evergreen Tree store, which now houses Air Logic’s front offices. Knapp was now up to 25,000 sq ft.

Air Logic: In 1975, Knapp demonstrated its adaptability and foresight by acquiring the Pneumatic and Fluidics division of Johnson Controls and converting it into Air Logic. This strategic move not only expanded our operations but also diversified our product range. The new division included two assembly areas, front offices, a shipping department, and a garage. Yes, we did have a Delorean in that garage!

Future State: Welcome to the roadmap to the future!

The KAL Supply Chain Team is developing dashboards that will pull data from Global Shop. This initiative aims to help the team gather information more efficiently and enhance overall visibility. By doing so, the team will be better equipped to make well-informed decisions for both the short and long term. -Laura Hanna

Kaizen: The journey continues

We are currently assembling a team to advance our Lean journey. Equipment Assembly will soon undergo Kaizen #2, which will follow a process similar to the first event that we completed in late 2024. During the first Kaizen event, we focused on implementing one-piece flow, kanban systems, and KPI boards, and we continue to see positive improvements as a result.

If you are interested in learning more about Lean or would like to join this team or a future team, please feel free to reach out to me. Engaging with Lean methodologies offers excellent opportunities for personal and professional growth.