In August 2023, Ronk Electrical Industries, located in Nokomis, Illinois, was referred to West Central Development Council by the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC). Founded originally in 1950 as Systems Analyzer Corporation, the company designs, manufactures and assembles various types of electrical equipment. With 41 employees, the company continues to be family owned and is led by the company’s president, Caitlin Simhauser.
As one of the largest employers in the Nokomis area, Ronk was looking to not only remain competitive in the global market but was looking to grow and expand its processes, products, services and workforce. Through discussions with IMEC and its subcontractor, Crea8tive Technology & Design, a detailed plan was developed to implement a new Epicor Kinetic ERP program. To be successful, this would require entirely new and improved business processes, systems and procedures along with a refresh of data and data management parameters.
Next, Ronk and its design partners reached out to West Central Development Council/LWIA 21 to discuss the training and the possibility of much needed funding assistance. Utilizing the Supplemental Funding Grant dollars made available through DCEO and the Governor’s General Revenue Funds, West Central Development Council and its boards approved over $96,000 in vital Incumbent Worker Training reimbursements to Ronk.
“Receiving the Supplemental Grant funding has allowed us to improve our business operations and efficiencies. Training our team to use our new ERP system enables better decision making, improved practices and ultimately provides superior produces and services to our customers throughout the state and beyond,” says President Caitlin Simhauser.
With training successfully completed in June 2024, Ronk Electrical Industries now looks to grow and improve on its new business model and is already working with West Central Development Council on a new UL Solutions electrical training proposal for many of its employees. They are committed to being a strong partner in workforce and economic development while also being a community leader for Nokomis and central Illinois. Congratulations to Ronk Electrical Industries on its success!