Reinke Manufacturing honored for innovative efforts

Reinke Manufacturing Co. has been named the recipient of the first-ever Nebraska Innovation in Manufacturing Award. The Deshler company that makes mechanized irrigation systems and chassis equipment was honored at the annual meeting of the State Chamber’s Manufacturers Council on Wednesday. Presented by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry and professional services firm RSM McGladrey, the award recognizes Nebraska manufacturers demonstrating new ways of conducting business.

Reinke was selected based on its workforce training and retention efforts. The company has partnered with local schools and community colleges to create career opportunities for those who want to remain in the Thayer County area. “Reinke has devised a solid model to attract and retain employees,” State Chamber President Barry Kennedy said in a news release.

“The company is proving the skeptics wrong when they say it’s impossible to find enough skilled labor in rural Nebraska.” Reinke employs about 400 employees in a community of nearly 900.