When Jordan Thompson walked into BTD more than two decades ago, he didn’t know he was starting a family legacy. He simply wanted a welding job close to the area where he grew up. But 23 years later, his own journey through welding, supervision, manufacturing leadership, and now quality management has paved the way for something bigger — the kind of workplace where his kids, Mackenzie and Conner, would eventually find their own footing and their own futures.

Why did you join BTD?

Long before he became Quality ISO Manager, Jordan spotted a job posting in the Otter Tail County Midweek and decided to apply. Fresh out of NDSCS with welding experience building car trailers and bulk fuel tanks, he took the leap into a company he’d never heard of — but one that would become a major part of his life.

Years later, both of his kids found themselves at a similar crossroads. Mackenzie wasn’t sure what she wanted to do after high school, and Conner was in the same boat. Each time, Jordan mentioned BTD. Not as a push — but as a possibility.

“Give it a try,” he told them.

And they did.

What did you know about manufacturing/BTD before you started?

Jordan came in with six years of welding experience but no familiarity with BTD. Mackenzie and Conner knew even less — just bits they’d picked up from their dad, and a general sense that BTD made parts for companies like Polaris. Everything else, they learned by stepping onto the floor, seeing the pace and pride firsthand, and discovering how many products begin with the parts made right inside those walls.

What do you like best about your role, shift, or team?

What all three Thompsons found was community.

For Mackenzie, it was the way her shift operates like a safety net. “If I need help on anything, everyone is willing to help,” she said. Even people she doesn’t know well jump in without hesitation. That level of reliability makes coming to work feel easier.

Conner shared the same experience. The people, he said, are the best part of his shift, friendly, helpful, steady.

Jordan’s favorite part of his job changed as his career grew. He started on second shift as a hand welder, moved to third shift to learn setups, and eventually transitioned to days, where he stepped into shift leadership. From there, the opportunities kept building — first welding supervision, then robotic welding, and later manufacturing leadership, overseeing Tubing, Fabrication, Machining, Hand Welding, and Robot Welding. His journey ultimately led him into quality, where he now serves as Quality ISO Manager.

Each step stretched him. Each role demanded new skills. And each challenge — in his words — “helped fast-track my development at BTD.”

What makes BTD a great place to build a career?

For the Thompsons, the answer varies — but all roads lead back to opportunity.

Jordan points to the constant room to grow. Whether it was training, mentorship, or simply the chance to apply for new roles, he credits BTD with pushing him to expand what he thought he was capable of.

Mackenzie loves the variety: every day brings something new, from new parts to new projects. “You never know what you’ll be doing until you get started,” she said.

For Conner, it’s the culture, including the friendliness, the willingness to help, the sense that you’re never on your own.

Together, they represent three different entry points into BTD. And all three show the same thing: it’s a place where you can begin without knowing exactly what comes next and end up building a career you’re proud of.

Life outside work

Off the clock, the Thompson household is outdoors whenever they can be; hunting, fishing, and spending time with friends and family. It’s a thread all three share, another tie that connects their work lives to their home lives.

The Thompson family’s story reflects what makes BTD special. It’s not one path, it’s many. It’s mentors, training, technology, teamwork, and the confidence that you can keep growing if you keep showing up. Whether you’re a seasoned welder or a recent graduate searching for your next step, BTD is the kind of place where careers take shape, sometimes one family member at a time.

Learn more about career opportunities at BTD.

The post How the Thompsons Built Their Manufacturing Careers at BTD appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Learn why he thinks BTD is a great place to build a career.

Why did you join BTD?  

Because of the many opportunities to advance within the company. BTD encourages growth and sets its employees up for success.

What did you know about manufacturing and/or BTD prior to starting here?  

I knew that BTD was a fast-paced work environment that prioritizes safety, quality and teamwork. 

Why should others want to apply to work at BTD?

BTD values its employees and goes to great lengths to show employee appreciation.   

What do you like best about working on your shift? 

There are a lot of employees on my shift with many years of experience within the company. This makes me feel like BTD is the right choice for me.

Tell me about the volunteer work you do in the community.

I find great joy in volunteering. Outside of FMSC I also volunteer at Rubey’s Pantry, Adopt a Highway, and a program that mentors people in recovery. 

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#whyBTD-Ron Dunston, 2nd Shift Weld Lead

When Ron first joined BTD Manufacturing, he had one goal in mind: to improve his financial situation. Little did he know that his decision would lead to so much more. From the moment he set foot in the company, Ron realized that BTD offered more than just a paycheck. It provided him with unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth.

“I chose BTD because I felt I could better myself financially, but when I got here I got so much more,” he reflects. 

The company’s commitment to employee development and its supportive culture proved to be invaluable. Ron soon discovered that BTD not only cared about his role within the company but also about his growth as an individual.

He’s eagerly embraced the chances to learn and expand his skills. But beyond the technical aspects of his job, Ron finds fulfillment in being part of a team.

“I look forward to growing as a team here,” he said. “I actually enjoy coming to work and trying my best to make a difference, one person at a time.”

As he navigated his career journey at BTD, Ron realized that this was a place he could see himself retiring from. For Ron, it’s not only because BTD offered financial stability but because it provided a genuine opportunity for personal and professional growth. It became a place where he could chase his dreams, expand his horizons, and make a difference—both within the company and in his own life.

With BTD, a career becomes so much more than just a job—it becomes a path to a great future.

A Journey of Growth: Bryan’s 20 Years with BTD

Learn more about a career in manufacturing at BTD.

The post A Career in Manufacturing: Finding a Place to Thrive appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

A Journey of Growth: Bryan’s 20 Years with BTD 

When Bryan started working at BTD, he was still a high school student looking to earn some extra money. He started his journey in the Stamping department, but it was in the Tooling department that his true passion was sparked. BTD recognized his potential and awarded him a scholarship to attend Alexandria Technical and Community College for Machine, Tool, and Die.

After completing his education, Bryan returned to BTD as a toolmaker. Throughout his 20-year tenure, he has held various roles, including production support, EDM, weld fixtures, and design, and currently, he serves as a shift lead.

So, why did Bryan choose to stay with BTD for two decades? The answer is simple: the people. In addition, every day is a new challenge as he is constantly faced with exciting tasks and projects. As a result, Bryan experiences a tremendous sense of accomplishment at the end of each day.

BTD Manufacturing has provided Bryan with opportunities to expand his skills and knowledge, allowing him to explore different areas of expertise within the company. From working with various tools and technologies to leading a team, each role has contributed to his personal and professional growth.

Bryan’s story is a testament to the opportunities and growth that can be achieved through dedication, a supportive work environment and a passion for what you do.

From Shipper to Warehouse: Brad’s Journey

The post Working at BTD | Bryan’s 20 Years with BTD  appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Brad’s journey at BTD Manufacturing began when he was 16 years old when he worked in the warehouse during the summer. After moving to Arizona he continued his career in manufacturing, working in a variety of roles, including assembly and production for 10 years. Then, he decided to return to Minnesota. With the help of his brother, who also works at BTD, he remembered the great opportunities the company has to offer and once again joined the team. 

Throughout his career at BTD, Brad has held various positions in the warehouse, including shipper, planner and his current role as warehouse leader. Over the past 11 years here he’s worked every shift, gaining valuable experience and knowledge in different aspects of the warehouse operations.

When asked why he chose BTD, Brad recalled the company’s history and the belief that if you stay focused, opportunities will come your way. This has certainly proven true for him as he has progressed in his career at BTD.

So, what makes BTD a great place to work? According to Brad, it’s the wide range of career paths to choose from, allowing employees to find their niche and excel in their chosen field. Additionally, Brad feels like he is part of a successful team, and at the end of each day, he has a strong sense of accomplishment.

But it’s not just the opportunities and career growth that make BTD a great place to work.

“It’s the people I work with and the atmosphere that makes this a great place to work,” he said.

Brad believes that the supportive and friendly environment at BTD is what truly sets it apart as an excellent workplace.

Join Brad and many others in discovering the exciting career opportunities at BTD Manufacturing. With a variety of paths to choose from and a fantastic work environment, you too can find your place on the BTD team and achieve success in your career.

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This former military member had his sights set on TIG welding on the open road. But after learning about BTD, he realized his career path was leading him in a new direction. Here’s what Clay Schenck, program manager at our Detroit Lakes facility likes most about working at BTD. 

Feeling at home

After getting out of the military and attending welding school, I pretty much had my mind set on TIG welding on the road. That was until I interviewed at BTD. From the minute I set foot through the door and started the interview process I felt welcomed immediately and knew that this is the place for me. 

Professional growth and advancement

At BTD you are not just a number, you have real interactions and relationships with leadership that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. Ideas and opinions are valued, and you feel like you are part of the team. BTD not only wants to help you develop your skills in your current role, but helps you look forward to what’s in the career path ahead of you and helps you get there. 

I have been fortunate to have the leaders at BTD believe in me and the value I can add to the organization.  After starting as a welder in the Heavy Weld Department, I moved on to a Shift Lead position in Light Weld, and then most recently was promoted to Program Manager over New Product Launch for the Washington facility. I continue to look forward to my future endeavors with BTD! 

A supportive team

During my time here, my wife and I have welcomed our first child into this world and more recently lost a pregnancy. In both situations, my co-workers came around us as if we were family, not just people that you work with. This goes to show the character and caliber of people you can work with here at BTD. BTD is home for me!

Want to hear what others have to say about working at BTD? Check out our recent #whyBTD blog posts!

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Trevor started his career in Detroit Lakes, MN in 2011 and over the years has worked in many departments, including Robot weld, Welding, Fabrication and Tubing. His career at BTD has allowed him to learn a variety of skills through a variety of roles that have taken him from a production operator to a production setup to a welder. Trevor also spent time as a Shift Lead before becoming a Manufacturing Leader in 2022. Here’s what Trevor has to say about working at BTD.

What do you like best about working your shift?

The people and resources. I enjoy meeting the customers’ needs and this shift works best for my family life.

Why BTD?

I was looking for a family-orientated company that worked best for my work-home life balance. And the great pay.

Why do you think BTD is a great place to work?

BTD promotes from within the company and cares about my personal growth. I have been able to travel to other facilities for training and help the company grow.

Read more about why others have chosen a career in manufacturing at BTD.

The post #whyBTD – Trevor Stilke, manufacturing leader, Detroit Lakes, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Years ago I found out I was going to be a father and needed a stable job/career.  I was referred by an employee of BTD who is still with the company as well.

What did you know about manufacturing and/or BTD prior to starting here? 

When I first started I knew nothing about manufacturing, let alone steel manufacturing.  I did know that I worked well with manual labor and was good at working with my hands.

How have you taken advantage of the training opportunities at BTD? 

I’ve been able to work under Justin Huspek who has been a great mentor to me.  With everything he showed me and the drive to learn more and do better, I’ve been able to excel and become AWS certified.

How have you navigated the career pathing to BTD, and how has your career evolved? 

A lot of what I’ve learned has been ‘on-the-job’ learning time.  Showing myself and my team my manual work skills and work ethic, I was showing I could do the job.  I’ve been with BTD for more than 11 years starting in Blanking, Lazers, Paint, and now in Welding as a shift lead.

Why should others apply to work at BTD, and what advice do you have for them? 

BTD has been a place where I’ve been able to excel in my career and in turn, create stability and balance for my family.

#whyBTD – Keith Yonemura, L&D Lead, Detroit Lakes 

The post #whyBTD-Taylor Mundahl, Welding shift lead, Lakeville, MN appeared first on BTD Manufacturing.

Keith started at BTD in April 2018 as a Sheet Laser Set Up. He came to BTD for an opportunity to work with our production laser. Since then, Keith grew into his role as Fabrication lead and in July 2022 he accepted his current position as L&D Leader. 

What do you like best about working your shift?

All of the networking and resources that are available as well as being able to spend more time with my fiancé, our farm, and dogs.

Why BTD?

BTD has become my home away from home, and I enjoy the relationships I have built in my time here and look forward to the years to come. 

Why is BTD a great place to work?

BTD offers ample opportunities for growth in not only your career but personally.

Want to hear what others like most about working at BTD?  Tayler Meyer, shift lead in Lakeville, MN shares how her role at BTD has evolved.

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