JR Automation: A Global Leader in Intelligent Automated Manufacturing Solutions
JR Automation is an international company specializing in industrial automation. Established in 1980, the company has been a leader at solving customers' operational and productivity challenges. Since 2009, JR Automation has nearly quintupled in size, growing from a small team and a pole barn to more than 2,000 employees and 21 facilities worldwide. Headquartered in Holland, JR Automation is a leader in intelligent automated manufacturing technology solutions.
Strategic Global Expansion and Acquisitions
JR Automation continues growth as a new acquisition increases the company's global presence. The company has now acquired Doerfer Corporation's Automation Systems Group. "The acquisition of these businesses will solidify JR Automation's position as a global leader in creating automated solutions, enabling us to better serve the needs of all our customers," said Mike DuBose, chairman and CEO of JR Automation. In addition to increasing presence in North America, this acquisition will extend JR's footprint into Europe and Asia, further diversifying the end-markets and geographies they serve.
Regional Investment and Economic Impact
As a long-time member of the Michigan family, JR Automation understands the positive business climate and advantages of doing business in the State of Michigan. The company announced the forthcoming creation of 60 new high paying jobs and a sizable expansion of their Red Arrow Highway plant to the tune of a $1.9-million investment. This move is intended to create 60 jobs over the next three years. Previously, in 2016, the company purchased the Kandu building, which was a $5.6 million investment for the company and it added close to 250 jobs.
Key Corporate Growth Data
| Investment Type | Financial Impact | Job Creation |
|---|---|---|
| Red Arrow Highway Plant Expansion | $1.9 Million | 60 high paying jobs |
| Kandu Building Purchase (2016) | $5.6 Million | 250 jobs |
| Berrien County Investment (2017) | $1.9 Million | 60 jobs |
The FlexChassis™ Modular Assembly Platform
JR Automation® helps manufacturers flex their automation with the modular assembly platform, FlexChassis™. The FlexChassis™ system harnesses XTS intelligent transport technology from Beckhoff in high-speed, scalable system for life sciences and other industries. These industries include semiconductor, automotive, battery and e-mobility, food and beverage, e-commerce and more. FlexChassis™ helps customers focus on their IP rather than reengineer the automation aspects with flexible material handling using the Beckhoff XTS intelligent transport system.
Professional Engineering and Skills
To deliver these solutions, controls engineers, design engineers, electricians, builders, plumbers, and more work together as a team to solve problems and to automate processes for many well known companies. Through this work, technical experts learn how to operate Fanuc robots, how to navigate Allen Bradley PLC and HMI software, and about the functionality of many different components. Professionals gain the opportunity to write programs as well as teach routes and points for material handling robots, and create HMI (Human Machine Interface) screens so that operators can interact with the cell. This environment allows engineers to see the direct impact that their work makes on the operation of the machine.
