The History of Jesco Industries
Our company has endured and thrived for three generations. We like to credit this to our ability to listen to clients to discover real-world solutions. As a metal fabrication company, we pride ourselves on offering excellent quality products and customer service. Our specialty is custom fabrication and material handling equipment.
Continue reading to learn about our legacy and how the company has changed hands over the years.
Our Founder, Herbert James Sr.
Herbert James Sr. founded James Welding in 1932 on the corner of 14th and Ash streets in Detroit. For those who still remember, it was near what used to be Tiger Stadium. It wouldn’t be until later that the company name would change to Jesco Industries, Inc.
When Herbert was no longer able to run the business, he passed it onto his sons. The brothers worked in many areas of the fabrication company, including sales and manufacturing. Over time, two of the brothers left the company to pursue different career paths from custom fabrication.
The Second Generation, Herbert James Jr.
Herbert James Jr. was the second generation to take over the family business of custom fabrication and material handling equipment.
He was also the one who moved our company in 1973 to our present location in Hillsdale County. This move allowed us to grow into the metal fabrication company we are today.
Our Current Leader, Bonny DesJardin
In 2005, Bonny DesJardin became the third generation and first woman to run the company. We’re proud of our certification as a
(WBE). This means that our company is at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more women.Being a WBE gives us access to WBENC (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council) Corporate Members. We also have access to a few local, state, and federal governmental agencies. Having these partnerships puts us above the competition as a custom metal fabrication company.
Our current facility has 90,000 square feet of manufacturing floor space! We also have over 40 skilled workers to meet the needs of our customers. And we’re still growing!
Today, we’re affiliated with the
, National Association of Manufacturers, Hillsdale County Economic Development Partnership, and other professional organizations.