Made in the Cedar Valley: Spotlight on OMJC Signal

posted on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

The "Made in the Cedar Valley" series is dedicated to showcasing the incredible businesses that call the Cedar Valley home. This region is rich with companies that produce a wide range of products distributed across the globe. From advanced traffic solutions to innovative safety systems, the Cedar Valley is a hub of creativity, hard work, and community spirit. 

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Pioneering Traffic Solutions in Waterloo Since 1985

In the Cedar Valley, OMJC Signal has grown from humble beginnings into a world leader in portable traffic solutions. Founded in 1985, OMJC has remained steadfast in its commitment to innovation, safety, and customer success. This journey from refurbishing discarded equipment to developing state-of-the-art traffic systems reflects the company’s deep connection to its community and its dedication to excellence.

A Legacy of Innovation and Integrity

OMJC’s story began with a simple yet powerful idea: “doing more with less.” Arlen, the founder of OMJC, recognized that many communities struggled to afford brand-new traffic equipment. To address this, he began refurbishing and reselling discarded equipment, providing municipalities with cost-effective solutions to enhance traffic safety filling a critical need, and forging strong relationships with communities across the region.

As technology evolved, so did OMJC. Recognizing the growing demand for portable traffic solutions, Arlen and his team developed a groundbreaking product—a portable traffic system built on a trailer for easy transport. After countless late nights and rigorous testing, OMJC unveiled the first version of what would become their signature product, solidifying their reputation as innovators in the industry.

Made in the Cedar Valley: OMJC's Contributions

Being "Made in the Cedar Valley" means more than just operating a business in the region; it’s about investing in the community, nurturing talent, and delivering products that meet the highest standards of quality and safety. OMJC's Waterloo facility is where innovation meets dedication. Here, a team of skilled professionals, individually trained onsite, manufactures a range of advanced traffic solutions, including:

● Pop-Up™ Portable Traffic Signals: This innovative system maximizes manpower by allowing flaggers to be removed from harm’s way, enhancing safety while reducing costs. The system’s versatility makes it ideal for everything from simple lane closures to complex multi-phase intersections. 

● Short-Term & Emergency Deployment Trailers: Built for rapid deployment, these trailers ensure that work zones are safe and efficient. They’re designed with features like solar power and battery-operated controls, aligning with OMJC’s commitment to sustainability. 

● Custom Solutions: OMJC prides itself on its ability to create tailored traffic solutions that meet the unique needs of each customer. Whether it’s a single-lane closure or a complex intersection, OMJC’s equipment is designed to perform under the most challenging conditions.

● In-House Manufacturing: OMJC is dedicated to quality and precision. From powder coating to making their own parts, OMJC ensures that every product meets the highest standards before it leaves the facility.

The People Behind OMJC: A Culture of Growth and Positivity

At the heart of OMJC’s success is its people. The company’s culture is built on the belief that when employees are doing what they love and are best at, the entire organization thrives. OMJC’s approach to hiring focuses on bringing in talented individuals and then training them in areas where they can excel and contribute the most. 

Jennifer Shimp, President of OMJC, emphasizes this philosophy: “We believe in hiring people for their potential and their character and then putting them in roles where they can shine. It’s about finding the right fit for each person and making sure they’re happy and fulfilled in their work.” 

The positive work environment at OMJC is a common theme among employees. Tarah Dalziel, the Customer Care Manager, shares, “My favorite thing about working at OMJC is the people. We have a great team, and everyone is really supportive. I love the variety in my job; I work in the office, help with production, and travel to trade shows. It’s a great mix.”  

For Harold Moyer, a long-time employee, the opportunity to learn and grow has been a major factor in his continued commitment to the company. “I started at entry level, just taking out the trash and washing signals. But over the years, I kept learning more, and now I’m involved in design work and solving problems. It’s amazing to be part of a company where you can grow and learn so much.” 

Ethan Deegan, a former Navy serviceman who recently joined OMJC, appreciates the supportive environment and the focus on quality. “I work in quality control, and I love knowing that I’m helping to ensure that our products are the best they can be before they go out to customers. The team here is great, and I’m excited about the growth and potential I see in the company.” 

Jake Marty, a fabricator welder, echoes the sentiment, saying, “The people here are always smiling and ready to help. It’s a fun environment, and I enjoy coming to work every day. There’s never a bad day at OMJC.”

A Commitment to Community and Employee Development

OMJC’s commitment to its employees goes beyond just providing a job, it creates a supportive environment where people can thrive. Jennifer Shimp shares how the company invests in its employees: “We like to find out what everyone’s skill sets are and put them where they want to be. It doesn’t make sense to put people in a box. We want them to enjoy their work and feel valued.” 

OMJC values and encourages employee feedback and ideas, and everyone is included in the decision-making process. When the company wanted to add a "Made in the USA" sticker to their equipment, instead of leadership making the choice, they turned to their employees for the final decision. The team selected an Iowa-shaped decal with Waterloo marked on it, which quickly became a favorite among both employees and customers. This collaborative approach ensures that all employees have a voice and feel part of the team.

This investment in people is mirrored in OMJC’s dedication to the Cedar Valley community. From providing urgent traffic solutions to local municipalities to creating a work environment where employees are encouraged to grow, OMJC is deeply connected to the region it calls home.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, OMJC is poised for continued growth and innovation. The company’s vision includes expanding its product offerings, enhancing safety features, and maintaining its strong customer relationships. As OMJC continues to innovate, it remains deeply rooted in the Cedar Valley, where it all began. 

As we celebrate the remarkable contributions of local businesses through the "Made in the Cedar Valley" series, OMJC Signal stands out as a shining example of what can be achieved with a clear mission, a commitment to innovation, and a focus on community. From their pioneering traffic solutions to their investment in employee growth, OMJC embodies the spirit of excellence that defines the Cedar Valley. 

For more inspiring stories about the businesses that make our community thrive, stay tuned to "Made in the Cedar Valley" and visit growcedarvalley.com.