Manufacturers have long struggled to find skilled workers. Jon DeWys, CEO and co-owner of DeWys Metal Solutions, has been tackling this challenge head-on through a workforce development strategy focusing on education, training, and partnerships.
By investing in an in-house education program and collaborating with schools, economic development organizations, and state agencies, DeWys is helping to bridge the skills gap while strengthening his company’s future.
His commitment to workforce development and community collaboration was recognized at Lakeshore Advantage’s annual meeting on Feb. 20 at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville, where he was presented with the Visionary Award.
The event also honored the late John "Jack" Richard Marquis, an attorney and founding chair of Lakeshore Advantage, with the Standing Ovation Award.
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Courtesy of Lakeshore AdvantageJack Marquis and Jon DeWys were honored at Lakeshore Advantage’s annual meeting on Feb. 20 at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville
Creating skilled workers
Rather than waiting for skilled workers to appear, in 2012 DeWys launched the DeWys University, an in-house training program that provides hands-on learning for employees.
The program began with welding instruction and has since expanded to include powder coating, laser cutting, and press brake forming.
“We created actual curriculum levels, like a school,” DeWys says. “You have to be proficient before moving to the next level. We focus on proficiency to ensure employees meet the quality standards our customers expect.”
The program not only benefits new employees but also provides professional development opportunities for current workers.
In collaboration with Davenport University, DeWys has expanded the initiative to support leadership training, offering credits that help employees advance into management roles.
DeWys' success in workforce training has been amplified through strong partnerships with organizations like Lakeshore Advantage, which supports economic development initiatives in the region.
“Our relationship with Lakeshore Advantage started about 20 years ago when we sought support for tax abatements,” says DeWys. “Since then, they have been a huge advocate for us, especially in securing grants like the $560,000 training grant we received from the state of Michigan.”
The funding, secured through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, has helped DeWys Metal Solutions expand its training efforts and offer more comprehensive resources for employees.
Community partnerships
Beyond working with economic development agencies, DeWys collaborates with local school districts, community colleges, and workforce training programs to create a talent pipeline.
“We work with Coopersville Public Schools, Grand Rapids Community College, Muskegon Community College, and Ottawa Area ISD, among others,” he says. “We invest not just in our internal education but in outreach to ensure there’s a strong pipeline of talent coming into the industry.”
DeWys' approach to workforce development provides a potential model for other manufacturers looking to address labor shortages. His company’s training initiatives focus on removing barriers to employment by providing hands-on education, mentorship, and clear pathways for career advancement.
By offering structured, in-house education, DeWys Metal Solutions ensures that employees receive the specialized skills required for modern manufacturing roles. This not only helps job seekers secure stable careers but also enables the company to remain competitive in an evolving industry.
“Manufacturing always had that kind of dirty, dim-lit, dingy reputation, but today, factories are the future,” he says. “Manufacturing isn't what your dad or grandfather did growing up. Not everybody is made for college, and we saw a need to provide training for people interested in skilled trades.”
Looking to the future
The family business, founded in 1977 by DeWys’ brother, Mark, started in a barn next to their parents’ house. When Mark died in 2000 from a brain tumor, Jon took over leadership, eventually purchasing the company from his brother’s family.
Since then, DeWys Metal Solutions has grown into a multi-location enterprise with divisions in Marne, Walker, and Grand Haven, employing over 300 workers.
The next generation is now playing a significant role in its continued success. His children Andrew, Josh, and Hannah have all found their paths within the family business.
Andrew DeWys leads Refab Metal Fabrication and Shoreline Powder Coating, two divisions that operate independently but collaborate closely with the core business.
Josh DeWys heads DeWys Designs, a product development arm, often creating solutions that integrate with DeWys Metal Solutions’ manufacturing capabilities.
Hannah DeWys contributes her expertise in marketing and helps shape the company’s brand and outreach strategies.
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Courtesy Lakeshore AdvantageLakeshore Advantage posthumously honored John "Jack" Richard Marquis with the Standing Ovation Award. Marquis was an attorney and founding chair of Lakeshore Advantage.
“I never expected or required my kids to come into the family business,” says DeWys. “I wanted them to follow their own passions. But as they explored their interests, they found ways to contribute to the company in a way that makes sense for them.”
In addition to recognizing DeWys, Lakeshore Advantage posthumously honored John "Jack" Richard Marquis, who died Feb. 24, 2024, at the age of 80, with the Standing Ovation Award. Marquis, a respected attorney and community leader, played a key role in Holland’s economic development and was the founding chair of Lakeshore Advantage.
Marquis practiced health, business, real estate, and tax law while serving as the attorney for Holland Hospital for over 45 years.
“Jon and Jack represent the very best of our region’s leadership. Their innovative thinking and commitment to community exemplify the spirit of collaboration that drives our region’s economic success,” says Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage. “These awards celebrate not just individual achievements but the collective potential of our communities. We are proud to honor their remarkable contributions.”