Kolbe launches year-long employee initiative for 80th anniversary

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Company was founded in 1946 by brothers Herb and Ervin Kolbe who started repairing and building wood storm windows for local builders out of the washhouse on their Wisconsin family dairy farm.

WAUSAU, Wis. — Celebrating its 80th anniversary, Kolbe Windows & Doors is launching “80 Acts of Kindness,” a yearlong initiative encouraging employees across all locations to support their communities through meaningful acts, large and small. The program reflects the family-oriented, community-first philosophy that has shaped Kolbe for eight decades. Recognized for its product innovation, quality craftsmanship and industry leadership, the company invests in its people and community.

“Our 80-year history, growth and success are because of our people. We value craftsmanship, integrity, solving problems and taking care of people. These values continue to drive every decision we make today,” said Jeff De Lonay, president of Kolbe Windows & Doors. “Each day, our team members carry on the family-oriented, customer-focused culture instilled by the founders of this organization.”

From this modest beginning, the business thrived and expanded. Today, the company ranks #70 on the FDMC list of largest woodworking manufacturers by sales. It employs approximately 950 people and operates three locations, with nearly 1 million square feet of manufacturing and production space across Wisconsin and Arizona. Its made-to-order windows and doors appear in distinctive homes, multifamily communities, commercial buildings and historic campuses across North America.

Kolbe continues to invest in resources that strengthen work-life balance and employee wellbeing. An onsite health clinic provides convenient care, and the company partners with a local daycare to reserve spots for employees, helping working families access childcare. This year, Kolbe will open an apartment complex to offer affordable housing options for manufacturing professionals across the region, not just its own team.

There are 65 U.S. military service members on staff. 

The company is also shaped by remarkable employee longevity. More than 300 Kolbe team members have worked with the company for more than 25 years or more, and 50% of its workforce has been there for more than a decade. Women represent 33.5% of Kolbe’s manufacturing team members and 35% of manufacturing leaders.

De Lonay, who began his 42 year career working with the Kolbe brothers, credits their approach for shaping the company’s culture. “Herb believed in nurturing people as much as advancing innovation,” he said. “That combination is what made Kolbe special then and still makes us special now.”

To learn more about Kolbe Windows & Doors, visit kolbewindows.com.
 

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Dakota Smith | Assistant Editor

Dakota is an assistant editor at Woodworking Network, avidly exploring the woodworking industry.