By Nicole Malson, Owner and President of STRYKER
A Certified Metalphoto® Converter is a manufacturer recognized by Horizons Imaging Systems Group for its Metalphoto processing practices and application knowledge. At STRYKER, that means helping customers choose and produce durable identification for the equipment they build and use.
As the third-generation Owner of STRYKER, I care about the relationships that helped build this business. Our relationship with Metalphoto began in 1960 when my Grandpa, Fred started producing Metalphoto nameplates in his basement in Appleton, WI. While the company has long moved out of Grandpa’s basement, we continue our journey with converting Metalphoto as our core product to this day. I value that history, and I take great responsibility for making sure the work we do today earns the same trust.
What is Metalphoto?
Metalphoto is photosensitive anodized aluminum (raw material) used to make durable nameplates, equipment labels, asset tags and control panels. A photographic image is sealed within an anodized layer, protecting the text and graphics from exposure to sunlight, abrasion, chemicals and corrosion.
I always describe it as an image being sealed into the metal to put it very simply.
That matters because a nameplate has a job to do long after the equipment leaves the factory. A serial number needs to remain readable. A warning needs to be understood. A barcode needs to connect someone to the correct asset information.
When I think about the products we make, I think about the person who will need that information years from now. That is why choosing the right identification material deserves attention at the beginning of a project.
What does a Certified Metalphoto Converter do?
A Metalphoto converter turns the raw material into custom finished identification products. Certified Converters complete a process assessment and receive training and recommendations to improve product quality and their understanding of suitable applications.
At STRYKER, formerly Industrial Nameplate, Inc., we first achieved Certified Metalphoto Converter status on January 19, 2021. Following an on-site review by Horizons Imaging Systems Group in July 2025, our certification standards were reconfirmed.
I value having our processes reviewed by the people behind the material. It gives us an opportunity to learn, address improvements and keep our standards current. Experience matters, and so does being willing to examine how we work.
For a customer, this means working with a team that understands both the material and the questions that affect the finished part. What environment will it operate in? What information needs to fit? How will it attach? Which requirements does the drawing call out? Those details guide the recommendation.
Why our Metalphoto relationship since 1960 matters to me
A relationship that began in 1960 carries a lot of history. Our company has grown and changed, including the transition from Industrial Nameplate Inc. to STRYKER. Metalphoto has remained at the core of the work we do.
I value our suppliers who understand their product and help us use it well. Keeping that relationship strong gives our team a direct connection to the knowledge behind the material, which helps us serve our customers.
I am proud of STRYKER’s history and the people who helped build this company. As its third-generation owner, I am carrying forward work and relationships that began long before I was here. Today, our team continues that work, and my responsibility is to preserve what has earned our customers’ trust while improving how we serve them.
That is what being a Certified Metalphoto Converter means to me. We have a long history with this material, and we are accountable for what we produce with it today.
When you should consider Metalphoto for your nameplates
Metalphoto is worth considering when equipment identification must remain legible in demanding conditions. Common applications include military equipment tags, aerospace nameplates, industrial control panels and barcode labels for asset tracking.
The right choice depends on your application. The environment, mounting surface, required information and customer specifications all need to be considered together.
My expectation is that our team helps you understand those choices. If you already have a drawing or material requirement, we can start there. If you are still deciding how to identify your equipment, we can help you work through the options.
Questions customers ask about Metalphoto converters
Is converter certification the same as product approval?
No. Converter certification recognizes the manufacturer’s processing practices and application knowledge. Your finished nameplate still needs to meet the requirements of your particular drawing, purchase order and application. We review those requirements on a part-by-part basis, rather than assuming that a material choice checks every box.
Can Metalphoto include serial numbers and barcodes?
Yes. Metalphoto can incorporate variable information, including serial numbers, barcodes and QR codes. The layout and readability requirements should be established before production.
Where can I order custom Metalphoto nameplates?
STRYKER manufactures custom Metalphoto identification products in Appleton, Wisconsin, USA. Our team works very well by email, and we ship parts all over the United States every day. You don’t have to be local to work with us. We can review your requirements and help you choose a suitable construction for your application and ship to your location.
Talk with STRYKER about your Metalphoto project
If you are researching Metalphoto, I want you to understand why we use it and what our experience can bring to your project. I am proud of the relationship that began in 1960, and I value the opportunity to put that knowledge to work for our customers today.
Explore our custom Metalphoto nameplates and labels to learn more about our capabilities.
Ready to discuss your project? Request a quote from STRYKER or call 920-731-9105. Tell us about your application, operating conditions, quantities and any required specifications so we can help you get started.