Introduction: Our Journey of Strength and Innovation
For 65 years, we’ve proudly delivered high-quality labeling and workwear solutions with a steadfast commitment to durability and reliability. What began as Thunderbird Industries in 1960, founded by Fred Ziegler in a basement, has grown into STRYKER—a trusted partner for industries where toughness matters most.
Recently, we were honored to be featured in The Business News article, “Durability Is the Name of the Game for 65-Year-Old STRYKER,” highlighting our dedication to quality and innovation.
A Legacy Built on Adaptability and Growth
Our company has evolved significantly over the decades. Originally focused on Metalphoto® products, we’ve expanded our offerings to include custom industrial nameplates, labels, tags, and durable workwear. In 2021, our current owner, Nicole Malson, unified our operations under the STRYKER brand by merging Industrial Nameplate and Top Dog. This move strengthened our company culture and allowed us to focus on serving industrial clients in sectors like military, heavy equipment, and construction.
Today, we’re proud to supply durable labeling for critical applications, including U.S. Navy ships, defense vehicles, and emergency equipment. Our shift toward industrial clients has enabled us to build valuable, long-term relationships and deliver products that meet the highest standards of durability and compliance.
Our Products: Designed for the Toughest Conditions
At STRYKER, we know our products need to withstand the harshest environments. That’s why we focus on creating solutions that are built to last, including:
- Metalphoto® Tags: Our Metalphoto® tags are known for their high-resolution durability, perfect for high-stakes environments where clarity and longevity are crucial.
- Polycarbonate Labels: Ideal for control panels and industrial equipment, our polycarbonate labels offer exceptional scratch resistance and high optical clarity.
- Custom Industrial Labels and Tags: We provide tailored solutions that meet specific industry requirements, from chemical resistance to weatherproof performance.
We believe in creating products that not only meet industry standards but also provide real-world performance when it matters most.
Investing in Technology and Innovation
To stay ahead of industry demands, we’ve made significant investments in technology. Nicole led initiatives to automate our labeling process, add CNC routers for metal cutting, and introduce a fiber laser capable of cutting stainless steel. These advancements have boosted our efficiency and strengthened our capabilities, particularly for defense contracting.
Nicole’s vision is clear: “I’m heavily invested in the defense contracting part, as I want to continue labeling Navy ships for a very long time.” This focus on long-term partnerships is a key part of our strategy to maintain and grow our business in this critical sector.
Building Relationships That Last
Our success isn’t just about the products we make—it’s also about the relationships we build. Many of our customers have been with us since our early days, and we’re grateful for their loyalty. This is a testament to our consistent, reliable service and the high-quality products we deliver.
We take pride in our team, including long-standing members like Operations Manager John Schuldes, who has been with us for 41 years. Our leadership believes in a hands-on approach, understanding every aspect of our process to ensure we consistently deliver excellence.
“It may be ‘only’ a label, but it could be a label that is holding up a fire truck going to a city to save lives,” Nicole shared, highlighting the real-world impact of our products.
Read More About Our Legacy
We’re proud of our history and excited about the future. Our 65-year journey is a story of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality. As we continue to evolve, our focus remains on delivering products that combine durability with precision, helping industries stay safe, efficient, and compliant.
To learn more about our history of excellence, read the full article on The Business News here.