Knapheide Manufacturing Company produces truck beds and bodies that help companies of all sizes operate at maximum efficiency. Serving industries such as utility companies, construction businesses, telecommunications, municipalities, and more, Knapheide plays a key role in keeping the economy moving day in and day out.
This company employs 1350 individuals from the tri-state area — Illinois, Iowa and Missouri. They are committed to assuring that their employees have the necessary skills to performs the tasks required for the job. They have utilized the WIOA incumbent worker training program to upskill their workers. The training provided employees with the Automation and Robotics Technician certification and resulted in opportunity for promotions and pay increases as well as advanced job knowledge. This training was provided by John Wood Community College. Knapheide’s Engineering staff participated on the advisory team that developed the curricula.
This company has always been an active participant in programs for youth. They have provided classroom speakers for both colleges and high schools, presenters for the WIB’s workforce academy, interactive displays at Makerfest, and participated in Junior Achievement. Knapheide has also been involved in the start up of the FAME program in the Adams County area. The FAME program partners students with industry while they take classes at JWCC. The goal is for students to gain valuable employment experience while also completing their associate degree. Knapheide currently has 3 students who are participating in the program and working at the Quincy facility.
Knapheide is one of several Quincy companies participating in the Adams County Empowered initiative. This pilot project provides job opportunities for individuals on probation in Adams County. Knapheide sees this as an opportunity to help these people become productive members of the community by teaching them a useful skillset as well as being able to grow the company and meet customer needs.
Knapheide has supported the Workforce Innovation Board of Western Illinois by designating staff to serve as an active member of the Board who serves as the Chair of the WIB, participating in sector initiatives and providing leadership in manufacturing initiatives.
“Since 1848, The Knapheide Manufacturing Company has dedicated itself to being the leader in providing high quality work truck solutions for America’s tradespeople. Six generations of the Knapheide family have overseen the substantial growth and perseverance of the company through hardships and obstacles such as the flood of ‘93, the economic downturn of 2008, and more. For 176 years, the company’s determination to ‘Never Settle’ has continually placed them at the forefront of the industry, supplying work truck bodies for customers in countless trades throughout North America.”
The Chief Elected Officials thank the company for their many contributions to the workforce initiatives and for supporting Joanne Beeler as the Chair of our Workforce Innovation Board of Western Illinois.