Elward Systems Corporation Capitalizes on Training to Remain Successful and Competitive After More Than 60 Years in Business

Established in 1952, Elward Systems specializes in engineering and fabricating lightweight exterior cladding panels that are appealing for both performance as well as aesthetics for a wide variety of structures across the western United States. Their unique architectural influence can be observed on such buildings as the Colorado State University Research Innovation Center in Fort Collins and the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

The 55 employees that make up the Elward Systems team, pride themselves on being a tight-knit, loyal group. President Jim Helgoth has been with the company since 1979 and has seen very little personnel turnover in that time. And, while that speaks volumes about the company’s environment and morale, it can also make it more of a challenge to objectively assess procedures and efficiency.

In order to remain competitive and avoid becoming “creatures of habit,” Elward Systems Corp decided to seek assistance from Manufacturer’s Edge. By applying Lean manufacturing techniques and Value Stream Mapping, they have effectively taken apart virtually every aspect of the company one piece at a time and found ways of becoming more efficient across the board. The result of which has increased productivity and helped them successfully weather the recession.

Manufacturer’s Edge has helped us maintain a very healthy tension that keeps us consciously moving toward the future.Jim Helgoth, President