As Valley Design celebrates 40 years in business, we’re also celebrating the people who’ve played key roles in making it happen. Over the years, dedicated employees have not only supported the company’s growth but have helped shape Valley Design into the table base manufacturer it is today.
From the Paint Line to Long-Term Careers
While some team members have been with the company for five or ten years, a select group has built careers here that span more than three decades. Those milestones reflect more than tenure. They speak to a strong sense of commitment and a willingness to grow alongside the company. Together, they represent the depth of experience that supports Valley Design’s day-to-day operations.
Shannon — 31 Years
Since starting with us in 1995, Shannon Grabau has remained a steady presence on the paint line while taking on a wide range of responsibilities. Starting as a Painter, Shannon gradually developed the knowledge and skillset needed to support several aspects of the operation.
Today, his work spans everything from testing chemicals to ensuring compliance, painting parts, performing quality checks, and assisting with packaging. That versatility, combined with consistent performance over time, has made Shannon an integral part of the paint line team.
Scott — 31 Years
Scott Gilbert began on the paint line also in 1995, working hands-on with parts in both the standard and batch paint booths. Over time, that experience led to a transition into assembly, where Scott took on increasing responsibility and eventually stepped into the role of Assembly Supervisor.
After several years in assembly, Scott moved into engineering in 2001. In this position, Scott was able to apply his years on the floor and practical insight in a new way. Today, Scott primarily works with our customer service team to provide clear, technical information and timely support.
Fun Fact: In more than 30 years with Valley Design, Scott has missed only one day due to weather and that occurred in February 2026.
Jerod — 34 Years
Like the others, Jerod Rindels began on the paint line, where early experience laid the foundation for a long and varied career that started in 1992. Over time, Jerod took on multiple roles such as a Painter, Quality Control Inspector, and Building 1 Supervisor, building a strong understanding of both process and product.
He also took on a lead role on our Autophoretic coating (A-coat) line before the line was removed.
For the past 15 years, Jerod has worked as a CNC Operator, bringing his decades of experience, attention to detail, and craftsmanship to the critical role.
Matt — 39 Years
Matt Bradt’s career closely mirrors the growth of Valley Design itself.
Joining the company in 1987 when only the four original founders were on staff, Matt quickly became involved in all aspects of daily operations: prepping parts, painting, packaging, and preparing orders for shipment.
As the company expanded, Matt naturally moved into leadership roles. First as Paint Line Supervisor and later overseeing a second paint line and its team, Matt helped support increasing production demands. He later transitioned into the role of Assembly Supervisor, where he spent several years before moving into Production Planning.
For the past 10 years, Matt has focused on processing work orders and creating fabrication jobs, directly supporting the efficiency of our production. Having been part of Valley Design since its early days, Matt has seen countless products move through the facility and has contributed to their success every step of the way.
Fun Fact: Matt once supervised each of the other 30+ year employees.
Built on Experience, Carried Forward by People
Reaching 40 years in business reflects more than longevity. It reflects the people who show up every day and contribute to the work in meaningful ways. Employees like Shannon, Scott, Jerod, and Matt represent the kind of long-term commitment that sustains a company over time.
Their individual paths may differ, but together they tell a larger story of experience, adaptability, and pride in the work. That foundation continues to support Valley Design today and will carry it forward in the years to come.