tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34435158319041881872024-03-13T06:52:39.791-07:00Van-Mark BlogWe are manufacturers of portable bending brakes, saw tables, slitters and gutter hood roll forming tools for the construction trades. In business for over 50 years, we have made a name in the industry by providing the strongest portable bending brakes found anywhere in the world.Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-42170611071442479132023-12-07T05:57:00.000-08:002023-12-07T05:57:56.883-08:00Employee Focus: Katelynn Burkett<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDzuQAzmbRK6_DliCMqz9vHWXctIawGgVV1poCZA8uYAQBhVtfBb_no77u9y1HM2QHlbt8YwMFUvWoSdhchzDRF9u9g85ZiOKWn3Mux5_242BUQz0gijq_PMCp3Xl4NgJSS84SoxID3FX4QCwIGGROBucb6S7nZTQ38GOPuBV90wHSdiaBfiB36_XDKRf/s2016/Katie_EF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2016" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDzuQAzmbRK6_DliCMqz9vHWXctIawGgVV1poCZA8uYAQBhVtfBb_no77u9y1HM2QHlbt8YwMFUvWoSdhchzDRF9u9g85ZiOKWn3Mux5_242BUQz0gijq_PMCp3Xl4NgJSS84SoxID3FX4QCwIGGROBucb6S7nZTQ38GOPuBV90wHSdiaBfiB36_XDKRf/w640-h458/Katie_EF.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We are quickly racing toward 2024 but before we close out
2023, for our final Employee Focus of the year we are getting to know Katie
Burkett.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Katie is our Materials &
Logistics Administrator who just celebrated her 2-year anniversary back in
November.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Katie likes that her job is
challenging as well as rewarding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
like the hustle and bustle of working in the manufacturing plant and I’m
grateful that I work with a couple of amazing supervisors who have taken the
time to mentor me and help me with my career.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Katie shared that one of her goals is to eventually move into a
supervisory position here at Van Mark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I was offered this position knowing that it would open up a
new career path for me so, I jumped at the opportunity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel very lucky to have found a career I
love!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Developing relationships and
working with some of Van Mark’s outside vendors has been a challenging part of
Katie’s job, however, she feels she has now mastered it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m also very proud of the processes I’ve
created to streamline my efforts and keep things running smoothly.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Van Mark is a proven company coming up on its
60<sup>th</sup> anniversary and Katie tells us she excited to be a part of its
continued growth and evolution.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We asked Katie what advice she would give to her “younger”
self and, this was her reply: “Don’t be afraid to try new things, don’t be
afraid to fail and, don’t be afraid to ask questions.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sounds like some excellent advice for
everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the course of our
interview, we also learned that Katie is a classically trained dancer, having
started at just 2 years old, she learned ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is what probably led to her being the captain
of the Pom dance team while in high school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She’s also a very talented musician who can play the clarinet, piano,
guitar, bass guitar, and ukulele!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">During her free time Katie enjoys long distance running,
painting, and spending time with her friends and family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Katie grew up in Goodrich, Michigan and
currently resides in Ortonville, Michigan with her 2 guinea pigs and 2
parakeets.<o:p></o:p></p>
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Keep an eye
out for another employee focus in the coming months and in the meanwhile be
sure to follow us on social media for news, tips, and product information.</span></div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-86116487794492563482023-12-04T04:04:00.000-08:002023-12-04T04:04:18.967-08:00Rebuild Ukraine 2023 Expo<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLO2IJOpEpU0ss7oYH62fItSdKp0qQU2ZPBPM4Y0sRSMmUku2qRdMh6F5uVKQ5DuqHHm_olzMp76d03VutQsiFzgPxAanB4lUnIlIYyu8VmjXzeO-Bk6kxXc6ARTv4Tn8TtO1I6YPYvh61uXY88zBmJ2hFD3MuYy6whiWmq7NXKmk-KRE9N44cDxp6pof/s4032/image2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLO2IJOpEpU0ss7oYH62fItSdKp0qQU2ZPBPM4Y0sRSMmUku2qRdMh6F5uVKQ5DuqHHm_olzMp76d03VutQsiFzgPxAanB4lUnIlIYyu8VmjXzeO-Bk6kxXc6ARTv4Tn8TtO1I6YPYvh61uXY88zBmJ2hFD3MuYy6whiWmq7NXKmk-KRE9N44cDxp6pof/w480-h640/image2.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ441WmrgZ88CgB_KoBdtNO1bijs7TJCqWx2jqn9Z76BTmtfrp1TpktiQAc983cNKdy6Tb4A_Fp63-0T98ujUWIUUiVMWlOkM-aVh5bLFU3p82pqA245QxNhRVtwWCly5GQjLIhnWegBfNEcWAWN_xLif3JcchXeF-MiYgP2Q3xyarnONFHU68UyxhVLm9/s4032/image0.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ441WmrgZ88CgB_KoBdtNO1bijs7TJCqWx2jqn9Z76BTmtfrp1TpktiQAc983cNKdy6Tb4A_Fp63-0T98ujUWIUUiVMWlOkM-aVh5bLFU3p82pqA245QxNhRVtwWCly5GQjLIhnWegBfNEcWAWN_xLif3JcchXeF-MiYgP2Q3xyarnONFHU68UyxhVLm9/s320/image0.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>In November, we were privileged to attend the 2023 Rebuild
Ukraine Expo in Warsaw Poland. We teamed up with our distribution partners in
Europe to introduce Van Mark to a new audience while also nurturing existing
relationships in that region. We had a great show and were reminded of how
welcoming and kind everyone there can be. Despite political woes, and ongoing
conflicts in the region, there were still so many enthusiastic and excited
contractors, vendors, and friends of Van Mark that we felt welcome the entire
time.<o:p></o:p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wpWAUG8dhFTj91cmC0HOlXUnfVi-H5zmRCBqLPoHst2roVvSAnLQowYUNpVTMwp4opUjR807Y-x3yOqerImjCaGUvOZtXsuqvJfBMb52HwqG8EYUvjAauagD0NWCeAP4qo8Ui7bSWVMVXb0OkGfuwEMYjBppYLJ-h78sL3fLyILtNYsaq23jlxYchEaM/s4032/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wpWAUG8dhFTj91cmC0HOlXUnfVi-H5zmRCBqLPoHst2roVvSAnLQowYUNpVTMwp4opUjR807Y-x3yOqerImjCaGUvOZtXsuqvJfBMb52HwqG8EYUvjAauagD0NWCeAP4qo8Ui7bSWVMVXb0OkGfuwEMYjBppYLJ-h78sL3fLyILtNYsaq23jlxYchEaM/s320/image1.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">We are very excited at the promise that we saw and felt
while there and have no doubt that the people, and the region as a whole, will
bounce back and return stronger than ever after the dust settles. There is
plenty of opportunity and the right culture in place to become a beacon of
progress and opportunity that the whole world will take notice of. We can’t
wait to see what happens there in the coming years.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyL9nrhBWN8yk-bSjPg3twktR1FIO-5pW22phsNoa6gcwsddVY5ry2SUP6cVeOuaD29SQXQOkDQitzm66y1jUM7zLCPpkuZBuL212D5O-NHc58e-k1SoRLwTCWZCnbnOH3lg4zEkSEHwKYhW1Sf4i5BZ-KNyULoviYdTJpPoo5lrEv9qHKVK85HL6QkUnF/s2860/ukraine-certificate-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2860" data-original-width="2308" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyL9nrhBWN8yk-bSjPg3twktR1FIO-5pW22phsNoa6gcwsddVY5ry2SUP6cVeOuaD29SQXQOkDQitzm66y1jUM7zLCPpkuZBuL212D5O-NHc58e-k1SoRLwTCWZCnbnOH3lg4zEkSEHwKYhW1Sf4i5BZ-KNyULoviYdTJpPoo5lrEv9qHKVK85HL6QkUnF/w516-h640/ukraine-certificate-web.jpg" width="516" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-56259602320672184502023-10-25T10:46:00.001-07:002023-10-25T10:47:34.491-07:00Metalcon 2023 Show Summary<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGGy3bzZY7rpGt1wNdCFB3nvYwx6uKSBZmfomqN7zLY25JBO_a5cRiTkiPHlhyWXFpZGHOd6_P51Fj9RvPRSwM-Ix1syTxTTiVupe3rrb4FLx68xh7dcbUCMvP-AhPpNiZ6eNVpEx69i4qd5wJ3smvbMkgyb6sIW-PE8uWEK5zk-Eg3eymr3mMga6LLAER/s720/Blog%20header.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="720" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGGy3bzZY7rpGt1wNdCFB3nvYwx6uKSBZmfomqN7zLY25JBO_a5cRiTkiPHlhyWXFpZGHOd6_P51Fj9RvPRSwM-Ix1syTxTTiVupe3rrb4FLx68xh7dcbUCMvP-AhPpNiZ6eNVpEx69i4qd5wJ3smvbMkgyb6sIW-PE8uWEK5zk-Eg3eymr3mMga6LLAER/w640-h256/Blog%20header.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4bPR2Tbj85FOQ0gHY4Wdc5nQM7USyLhNJFX-0-W9MvJbf3tjSzAiZTfOksVwfpTY9hynt-xpiomZ0lReyqp4q9jexxYReMX-oDKaM2s06q9QAKh94OdywXfGJZFOGzpgeQaBOUz08McUXayJvEj86C55WFImx6gpokm1ajj-Q5YkHSllj5bkGxk0Waal/s1000/show%201.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4bPR2Tbj85FOQ0gHY4Wdc5nQM7USyLhNJFX-0-W9MvJbf3tjSzAiZTfOksVwfpTY9hynt-xpiomZ0lReyqp4q9jexxYReMX-oDKaM2s06q9QAKh94OdywXfGJZFOGzpgeQaBOUz08McUXayJvEj86C55WFImx6gpokm1ajj-Q5YkHSllj5bkGxk0Waal/s320/show%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">Now that we are back from Las Vegas and the 2023 Metalcon
show, we are able to sit down and reflect on the week in ‘Sin City’ and gather our
overall impressions of the show. Van Mark has been attending the Metalcon show
for far longer than anyone could put a specific number to, so we aren’t newbies
to the show. Though this year the event was in Las Vegas which definitely seems
to have raised the bar. (Or maybe it just feels that way since there are so
many things to do in Vegas) Though, don’t get me wrong, the show was great too.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrH3le9Bab99mNgsyHjTdmTxGCySXQ8zCuNFn4FxB4n6Q8A2UIG2xXk-veuyXk6AmoOLNICEYoLneMxQVCw6vlrlxmti8A__96U9i265owsrlYyjOb5na8zpXIDmwDYsN0MsylBbcGUmSmZ3MUAwtKkNqPCZEgDt-TLb4a_TIjYHmlvwRoSVaZ-wwo2lSm/s1000/show%208.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrH3le9Bab99mNgsyHjTdmTxGCySXQ8zCuNFn4FxB4n6Q8A2UIG2xXk-veuyXk6AmoOLNICEYoLneMxQVCw6vlrlxmti8A__96U9i265owsrlYyjOb5na8zpXIDmwDYsN0MsylBbcGUmSmZ3MUAwtKkNqPCZEgDt-TLb4a_TIjYHmlvwRoSVaZ-wwo2lSm/s320/show%208.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">We had a great time at the show, no doubt. We saw plenty of
our current dealers, as well as loyal Van Mark contractors who wanted to stop
by to tell us how much they like our tools, or to just ‘talk shop’ and look at
some of our accessory offerings that can streamline their workflow. There was
plenty of skepticism about bending full length 24ga steel panels on a portable
brake (as there always is) but we were able to allow the nay-sayers to try for
themselves, and none left unimpressed. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpP7cp8lVnBCr90RGLItdDCqsOdzHuwCULCdNP35OuKabNCfe_MNmMHaV8mXLSini16Hv2B5JFZmFQfELo-HnQ3fENkglJOFBP7460yIF53pXKMFFvAL4c3lebOvB7WGDx2JbFTMx3b-FU5RkVo1LZjA4X6pyEK-l3RJWMUU-m_xN82MhUxIyWMtRXLiN/s1000/show%204.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpP7cp8lVnBCr90RGLItdDCqsOdzHuwCULCdNP35OuKabNCfe_MNmMHaV8mXLSini16Hv2B5JFZmFQfELo-HnQ3fENkglJOFBP7460yIF53pXKMFFvAL4c3lebOvB7WGDx2JbFTMx3b-FU5RkVo1LZjA4X6pyEK-l3RJWMUU-m_xN82MhUxIyWMtRXLiN/s320/show%204.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">The Trim-A-Slitter perf combo system (SCI24HD) attracted
plenty of attention as it typically does since it’s a unique product that makes
an unusual sound during operation, which always piques the interest of
passersby. But it attracted a lot of attention as well due to it being such an
unusual but massively customizable system that some people weren’t even aware
of. So, it was great to be able introduce its capabilities to a new audience.
Though the more we demonstrate it, the more interest there is, which has made
it difficult for us to keep up with demand. But we’re working on ways to remedy
that. <o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzMQU4JpNVrL_yyIl6ygP_00pVEAPSvMG760dR8SsCuG9cSQGPqvpSJTJ2srMqA6ezTaN8garokSNQqhfIgRiRpDTLLXSa-xNZFt-lv8MvpJOj2SN3K2USQWk4TyXnb5rDJpgV41vMSJbpCjn1JJztZ50iBAcHaWSQasD5UF9vVobT_QwR7ZFeTPugbdA/s1000/show%2010.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzMQU4JpNVrL_yyIl6ygP_00pVEAPSvMG760dR8SsCuG9cSQGPqvpSJTJ2srMqA6ezTaN8garokSNQqhfIgRiRpDTLLXSa-xNZFt-lv8MvpJOj2SN3K2USQWk4TyXnb5rDJpgV41vMSJbpCjn1JJztZ50iBAcHaWSQasD5UF9vVobT_QwR7ZFeTPugbdA/s320/show%2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">We are on the cusp of our 60<sup>th</sup> year in business,
and so being that we were on the road for this show, it seemed appropriate to
represent Detroit in 2023 the best way we could think of, by wearing the
historic Honolulu Blue and Silver of the Detroit Lions. We admit that if they
weren’t having quite the surge they are, we may not have gone this way, but
since they are having a great season we just assumed it was because they are
excited that we are turning 60. (ok not really)<o:p></o:p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHFZzcZVrjJGZWdOYlNujeRoxXEwNyTPlRBpEJdo6E_R26ML1R5QJq3yzg1j0Xi-uNjlwKD9oMvsavne-5JPK3i8wfAOesy0OYpAV19SSHKDXkXaNIxVB9ZdJuPKGpHe5pd_KJIchoWs8U8ER0SE_RyWdE88fmEdNJEaziHsn_miOQzMNy8F7B6VB_W30/s2068/show%206-7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="2068" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHFZzcZVrjJGZWdOYlNujeRoxXEwNyTPlRBpEJdo6E_R26ML1R5QJq3yzg1j0Xi-uNjlwKD9oMvsavne-5JPK3i8wfAOesy0OYpAV19SSHKDXkXaNIxVB9ZdJuPKGpHe5pd_KJIchoWs8U8ER0SE_RyWdE88fmEdNJEaziHsn_miOQzMNy8F7B6VB_W30/w640-h310/show%206-7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>In the booth, we always have brakes for people to test out, or
to just touch and feel since our bending brakes operate so differently than
others in the market, and there is no better way to understand the differences
than to simply use one. What we didn’t expect was to have a bunch of the crew
that was doing on-site product installation demos at the show to need to use
our booth brake for so many of their projects during the week. Not that we mind
that at all, but it certainly seems like they’d be a great candidate for one of
our portable brakes to add to their tool crib.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGVGGkRTgVlmbJcljG4UWNHb45Ew-eqlMM8bk8it4uW2LPT2qxNkRoqxwxrAGQB2OiY5M3RnNeY_cmyLtYbb-wpjq32_OW8T9tMsQzTCAi1muXkCuZgetLsZK1jGNC415mT9oac-xppq_jYvOTocrNQp3D1_mxsFrPLOIx4XfJn1WChIs54uyZ02gslPl/s4108/show%202-3-5-9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="4108" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGVGGkRTgVlmbJcljG4UWNHb45Ew-eqlMM8bk8it4uW2LPT2qxNkRoqxwxrAGQB2OiY5M3RnNeY_cmyLtYbb-wpjq32_OW8T9tMsQzTCAi1muXkCuZgetLsZK1jGNC415mT9oac-xppq_jYvOTocrNQp3D1_mxsFrPLOIx4XfJn1WChIs54uyZ02gslPl/w640-h156/show%202-3-5-9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>In summary, the Metalcon show for 2023 was a great
experience for the Van Mark team, and we can’t wait to see some of you at one
of our other events over the next few months. Mark your calendars for the JLC
Live show, the IRE show, or the ARA Show if you are in the rental tool
business. We hope to see you on the show floor soon! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMqy61ytVzCt6Ur6Bvs-48-XPOMBTUwxrCn3dOQ0OboBYNDvtL8SQJYYop-YiEfWinU_U8kGMk08TqScVuF9oKgtKXMYs0nNQuafriKpQxrKCesneRP2ZEeXX3HcSUWTyRMae6G9llA3Kjl7JI759W3M-XXzeQm6Ahf1bm5njsHzcIXFEetO3HVNwPYud/s1000/show%207.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a></div>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-5655477997555568022023-10-09T12:20:00.002-07:002023-10-10T08:06:37.633-07:00Building tools for rental is the ultimate torture test. We ace it!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnreZGLT0-HYavtiIv2WNkwmR_P9Y2KyVojrVO1Hyd5TSle9DXFAszQrvoVwOXUf-b7kg7feuACm_b_KA-Yt8aTT1_xHNU3J8p9LM-j4lnd8eRJgxA0_oifVj7IClJk7Jfvkg3MKRG0QXYs_hZQDSPFPUcETOWGbD1_0yqTajwWmq_tebVSwLR6u8ynDLM/s720/Rental2%20copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="720" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnreZGLT0-HYavtiIv2WNkwmR_P9Y2KyVojrVO1Hyd5TSle9DXFAszQrvoVwOXUf-b7kg7feuACm_b_KA-Yt8aTT1_xHNU3J8p9LM-j4lnd8eRJgxA0_oifVj7IClJk7Jfvkg3MKRG0QXYs_hZQDSPFPUcETOWGbD1_0yqTajwWmq_tebVSwLR6u8ynDLM/w640-h256/Rental2%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Let me tell a little story here if you don’t mind humoring
me for a moment. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">There was once a large, national company that provides
rental tools as part of their business. They have stores all across the country
and wanted to begin offering siding brakes to feed the needs of their professional
and DIY customers. When they wanted to grow their specialty tool offerings Van
Mark met with them at length and felt that we were the right option for them
and their customers, due in part to the outrageous durability we bake into all
our products. However, when the time came to make their decision, they elected
to focus on price alone when outfitting their stores and chose to go with a lower
priced option. We were disappointed, as you might expect, but the story doesn’t
end there. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Fast forward a few years to when this company reached out to
us to reopen our previous conversations, due to the surprisingly high cost of
ownership and maintenance requirements that they were dealing with when it came
to the products they selected. They mentioned that the tools were constantly being
returned requiring adjustments, maintenance, or replacement parts. So much so,
that their ROI (return on investment) numbers were a fraction of what they
forecasted. They quickly realized that saving a few dollars up front ended up
costing them far more over their projected term of ownership than they ever
anticipated. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">So, they switched out the brakes in ALL their rental stores,
across the country, with Van Mark brakes in an effort to curb the amount of
maintenance time and dollars spent keeping their rental brake fleet
operational. Now, decades later, they still only buy Van Mark brakes for
their rental stores. This is partly because they have also been able to extend
the time between replacing their rental brakes by an additional year. They
couldn’t be happier with the results of their changeover, thanks to the reduced
maintenance costs, and the extended interval that allows them to earn even more
profit from the same tool before requiring a replacement. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">If this isn’t an example of an A+ grade, I’m not sure what
is.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>What does this mean for you?</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">Well, it proves that our brakes are built rental tough, and
when properly cared for can easily last for decades, which allows them to pay
for themselves numerous times over. Plus, it demonstrates that the maintenance
requirements on our cam-locking brakes are far less than you may expect. Since
rental tools are often far more abused and neglected by renters, plus they are commonly
improperly used due to the lack of experience with the correct operation. So
basically, brakes live their hardest life in a rental fleet. So, imagine the
lifespan of a Van Mark brake that is properly cared for.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><u>Here are some of the key reasons why we are the #1 rental
brake brand:</u></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">1. Quality & Durability<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->They rarely fail on their own – most repairs are
due to damage.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Customers don’t take care of them, yet they
stand up to the abuse.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">2. Ease of use<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Fully featured, so a pro can take advantage of
the brake’s full capabilities.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Easy to learn on, which makes it great for DIY
or first-time users.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Provides consistent and professional-level
quality of work.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">3. Parts readily available<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->We still offer replacement part solutions for
almost all our brakes since 1964.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Made in the USA so replacement parts can be sourced
in a matter of days. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Many fasteners are common sizes, readily
available at a local hardware store.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Wear items are inexpensive and are also available
in a complete tune up kit.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">4. Minimal maintenance requirements<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->No adjustments to reset after rental use.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Few adjustments for renter to accidentally
adjust out of the specified range.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Easy to clean.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">5. ROI<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduced maintenance and cleaning time required
upon rental return.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Low-cost replacement and wear parts.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Fair purchase price.<o:p></o:p></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal">So, to summarize, if you want to know which tools are the
best investment, check out what the rental stores carry, since they deal with
these tools every day, in their worst possible environment, and have to keep
them up and running regardless of the condition they are in when they are
returned from a rental. We will earn top marks on this, and you can too. Call
us to discuss the best brake to help you meet your goals.<o:p></o:p></p><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-21355963321030581042023-08-28T04:28:00.000-07:002023-08-28T04:28:11.732-07:00Employee Focus: Scott Totin<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHC37pSVVxXSTgiXxoFWfY3otUUzGJSn69BLUajgQwVjKnJwLNtf8hkv1cTaftuD9J_0Q2XUL6yke30XfhW5YeANPJeSs_sd1Hg2l2m34ZqeSLsL-IVHV_WU-rKMQRbVwXvFTYPH7QShGUuceIH4WSJBWMU2a284arJJ3HT6yPItMVOzqJ35ZuuTdGjlJ/s2016/ScottT_EF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2016" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHC37pSVVxXSTgiXxoFWfY3otUUzGJSn69BLUajgQwVjKnJwLNtf8hkv1cTaftuD9J_0Q2XUL6yke30XfhW5YeANPJeSs_sd1Hg2l2m34ZqeSLsL-IVHV_WU-rKMQRbVwXvFTYPH7QShGUuceIH4WSJBWMU2a284arJJ3HT6yPItMVOzqJ35ZuuTdGjlJ/w640-h458/ScottT_EF.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>The third quarter of 2023 has been a busy one for Van Mark
and crept up on us quickly. This time
around our Employee Focus Spotlight is shining on Scott Totin, Regional Sales
Manager. Scott joined the Van Mark team
in November of 2022 and is fast approaching his 1-year anniversary. When we sat down to chat with Scott, he
shared with us that he really appreciates the relaxed atmosphere at Van
Mark. “I really like that Van Mark
respects my contributions to the team, but my time away from work too. It’s not a high-pressure environment so, when
you leave work, you are able to leave it there instead of taking it home with
you. I think my family appreciates that as well.” </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">When we asked Scott where he sees himself in 5 years, he
told us that his hope is to continue to learn more about Van Mark’s business
and customers to allow him to add more value to the team, while he works toward
a position with greater responsibility. Then at some point, he hopes to be able
to retire from Van Mark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scott also told
us that he is excited about the future growth of Van Mark and appreciates being
part of a company that is considered to be the highest quality portable bending
brake manufacturer in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Scott’s career has always been related to construction in
some way or another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve always felt
comfortable in the construction arena” Scott shared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’ve held several positions at various
companies that have provided me with the opportunity to grow and learn. Then
eventually I have been able to use that experience in my sales career.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scott told us he’s particularly proud of a situation
when he was hired into a company that was struggling to stay afloat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was hired specifically to help ‘right the
ship’ which was a monumental task after the previous employee really couldn’t
pull things together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only did he
manage to recapture lost business and stabilize the day-to-day operations, but
the company profits increased dramatically, and that company is still going strong
today.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In his free time, Scott enjoys spending time with his wife
and kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he’s not hanging out with his
family there’s a pretty good chance he’s got a line in the water and a rod
& reel in his hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scott also
shared with us that he really enjoyed coaching soccer and hockey when his kids
were involved in school sports programs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In fact, Scott played both of those sports while he was in school, but
hockey was where he truly shined. In fact, Scott attended a few free agent
hockey camps after college but eventually chose not to pursue a career in hockey,
instead choosing to get married and start a family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Scott spent most of his life in the Sterling Heights area, a
suburb of Detroit Michigan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
temporarily relocated to Grand Rapids while attending Calvin University but returned
to Sterling Heights after college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
got married shortly after that and eventually relocated to Farmington Hills
where he resides today with his wife Amy, their 4 kids, 2 dogs, and a fish who
has surprisingly exceeded any normal fish’s life span.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Keep an eye
out for another employee focus in the coming months and in the meanwhile be
sure to follow us on social media for news, tips, and product information.</span><o:p></o:p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-19414117228294627192023-08-01T07:17:00.000-07:002023-08-01T07:17:21.901-07:00We bend metal, not the truth!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTaDZ5Fiz0vWXpwkYw6-5CYsLedwXMWmVZwpW3k_gn6-uyvl9Qhf990KEhJH_2gpC35kASLXdCZ2UmVXhiWRQVZodDM8L7lf0eSkUfKZ91hEQ-yoBBeeIBgOdH9793G6XeGJEQKNORyQhAVoSlPqdn8cI_RvWgbwMmUhx8hBuBynrAfkFLUJKLgbG7d3E/s720/capacity%20rating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="720" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTaDZ5Fiz0vWXpwkYw6-5CYsLedwXMWmVZwpW3k_gn6-uyvl9Qhf990KEhJH_2gpC35kASLXdCZ2UmVXhiWRQVZodDM8L7lf0eSkUfKZ91hEQ-yoBBeeIBgOdH9793G6XeGJEQKNORyQhAVoSlPqdn8cI_RvWgbwMmUhx8hBuBynrAfkFLUJKLgbG7d3E/w640-h256/capacity%20rating.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">We have all bought ‘miracle products’ before. You know what
we are talking about. Those products that claim to do something that no other
product can do or offer the promise of results that seem completely
far-fetched. Only to find out after your purchase that the product didn’t even
come close to doing what they suggested it was capable of, or your results fell
far short of what is shown on the box.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">That is no fun. And it can really have a lasting impact on
your opinion of the product or brand.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">At Van Mark we take a lot of pride in the quality of the
tools we build, and our long history of providing more value and durability
from our products than customers expect. It’s just something that is in our
DNA. Not to drag out the old adage “under promise and over deliver” but it
seems to suit us. We are well aware of all of the audacious and often inaccurate
claims or promises from brand after brand. So, we are very cautious when we
make any product claims.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">That said, a brake’s bending capacity is a critical feature
that should be considered when making an investment like this, so accuracy in
its presented capabilities is paramount. Because of this, we at Van Mark do
thorough testing before releasing our products and any information about them.
And with brakes it can be tricky, since there are a variety of materials and
sizes that need to be accounted for. We typically use common or “industry
standard” metals for testing, but if you plan to use materials not intended for
construction use we ask that you contact us to discuss your specific needs in
more detail.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">When we do our product development we test the maximum
capabilities, sure, everyone does, but we test <b>full-length pieces</b>, not
small scrap pieces. So, for example if we rate a 10’6” brake as capable of bending
.032” Aluminum, then we ensure it can bend a <b>full-ten-foot </b>piece of
.032” Aluminum. Or with our Industrial brakes, when we list a 14’6” brake as
capable of bending 24 gauge Grade D painted steel, we test this by bending <b>a
full 14’ piece</b> of 24 gauge. Testing the maximum capacity of a brake with
short scrap pieces is a cheat, and we won’t have it. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So as a Van Mark user, you can work with confidence knowing
that our brakes will do what they say on the box each time, every time. That’s
the truth.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Use our<a href="https://www.van-mark.com/forms/findbrake/prod_select.shtml" target="_blank"> interactive product finder</a> to choose your new brake!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-82894585999946839292023-06-30T06:02:00.009-07:002023-06-30T06:05:14.892-07:00Van Mark Hires Scott Totin to Bolster Sales Efforts<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDyvDAU3u0G9g9lCuM5eNM19CHqb-36Xvx67EVSD8t8gtjqvu60io_m626p8kt7F5qSGsi_RZF6nFmSb6c_DB2Z3CLYq55SH1d84ggL7aMnlqmSFHOUI_YNubcy_qNRvxRyBvQDlnK5ECG9Lv-7I49TgoKP1HOPD_OI3P39NzPSI6jvCVLWeSHvAyGJB_/s1280/Scott%20Totin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDyvDAU3u0G9g9lCuM5eNM19CHqb-36Xvx67EVSD8t8gtjqvu60io_m626p8kt7F5qSGsi_RZF6nFmSb6c_DB2Z3CLYq55SH1d84ggL7aMnlqmSFHOUI_YNubcy_qNRvxRyBvQDlnK5ECG9Lv-7I49TgoKP1HOPD_OI3P39NzPSI6jvCVLWeSHvAyGJB_/w320-h400/Scott%20Totin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Farmington Hills, MICH</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> – In an effort to maintain
recent sales momentum within the building and construction industry, Van Mark
has elected to add new staff to their sales team. Van Mark is proud to welcome Scott
Totin as the newest addition to their team. Scott will take over the duties as Regional
Sales Manager overseeing a large portion of Van Mark’s business-to-business
accounts, with a focus on growing existing business and seeking new business
opportunities within his territory that spans much of the continental United
States and portions of Canada.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">“We are excited to have Scott join the Van Mark
sales team. He has decades of experience in the construction industry and has held
roles on multiple sides of the business.” Stated Gary Weinert, Director of
Sales & Marketing. Gary continues: “This understanding of the various
facets of the industry paired with plenty of existing relationships, Scott adds
a lot of value and experience to Van Mark.”</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Scott joins Van Mark with over two decades of
experience in construction, management, and sales, most recently as an Outside
Sales Representative at Zeeland Lumber. Prior to that, Scott managed installation
crews at Pella Windows, oversaw construction teams at Tuff-Shed, was a branch
Manager at an Allied Building Products location as well as having put in some
time as an Outside Salesperson for ABC Supply and doing smaller scale construction
or remodeling projects on his own as well.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">For
nearly 60 years, Van Mark Products has been manufacturing portable metal
bending and forming tools for use in the siding and metal roofing industries.
Offering a wide range of metal brakes, slitters, cutters, and other tools
capable of manipulating up to 24 gauge painted steel on-site. All products are
designed, manufactured, and assembled in the USA, </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">while
other less expensive brands choose to source many key components offshore. This
allows Van Mark to maintain the highest standard of quality and keeps jobs in
the United States.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">For more information, call 800-VAN-MARK (826-6275), visit </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><a href="http://www.van-mark.com/">www.van-mark.com</a></span></span></p><br />Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-16331563404606109332023-06-05T12:07:00.001-07:002023-06-05T12:07:32.613-07:00Employee Focus: Oscar Smith<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxKXSlnkMAH0WZjlMGq8i4B5iM8btQ3fiUgmIu72QKFe8JpPETiT_CN9PhfQ-b34hPe7WjCiLPOoVxLO4B-yqvO6xn16IS25c4jfZ8X9ZOOSg6yogOJD_XH4gzNNlJDbyaW7hjOHQc-V-PA6bHPEu0Az8hky1vbMykb_y0Yn_gnpG_D4ILpxFN-L6TA/s2001/Oscar_EF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2001" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxKXSlnkMAH0WZjlMGq8i4B5iM8btQ3fiUgmIu72QKFe8JpPETiT_CN9PhfQ-b34hPe7WjCiLPOoVxLO4B-yqvO6xn16IS25c4jfZ8X9ZOOSg6yogOJD_XH4gzNNlJDbyaW7hjOHQc-V-PA6bHPEu0Az8hky1vbMykb_y0Yn_gnpG_D4ILpxFN-L6TA/w640-h460/Oscar_EF.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For our 2<sup>nd</sup> quarter of 2023 Employee spotlight,
we spoke with Oscar Smith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oscar joined
the Van Mark team in October of last year in the role of Production Lead and
has since proven to be a true asset to VM thanks to his great attitude and positive
work ethic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the things Oscar
shared with us is how much he appreciates his work schedule at Van Mark, as it
allows him to have most weekends and evenings free for his own pursuits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also mentioned how nice it is to be in a
work environment where he feels a strong family atmosphere and one that has
open communication among the staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Oscar tells us “Van Mark has put me in a position to better myself by
learning more about leading others and working toward a common goal”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Oscar also shared his plans for the future with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He and his wife are working toward owning
their own business and, eventually, relocating to Florida.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their dream is to enter the real estate
market and to own and run a cleaning business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While we would be sad to lose a great teammate, we know how important it
is to chase our dreams, and we will always support our employees, even when
they elect to pursue other paths.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When asked to look back upon his life so far, Oscar said the
advice he would give to his younger self would be to appreciate your parents
more, understand the value of building your credit score and, to put more
thought into how today’s decisions will affect your future life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Oscar isn’t hard at work at Van Mark, he
enjoys spending time with his family, taking his 2-year-old son to the
playground, and fishing with his mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He is also a former athlete turned-sports fan who played almost every
sport offered throughout his middle school and high school career.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Oscar is a high school graduate who obtained a degree in
heating and cooling back in 2005 but never actually got into the field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grew up on the east side of Detroit and
spent a year at Michigan State shortly after graduating high school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oscar, his wife Takara, son Jayce, and bonus
daughter Autumn, currently reside in Livonia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lastly, Oscar’s advice to anyone who would like to better themselves is
to not be afraid of change, to accept criticism, and to be selfless and be
honest with yourself and those around you.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p> </o:p>Keep an eye
out for another employee focus in the coming months and in the meanwhile be
sure to follow us on social media for news, tips, and product information.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-37664534806685809382023-05-11T04:31:00.007-07:002023-05-11T08:15:46.434-07:00Van Mark TrimCutter – A Cut Above the Rest<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjIrsDvlw-14uJk5C3H6uxhqj0k-L0OMQLk82OKx6gjnGSlawizqcHoQiU6oGSZuVaWbbKyOfPKvpkbdSeKfwQ_R9Zuo57TzIMw7vAzqUkoh9sSlkLfLIreJUQIWdf6HD1F8tbbTHhp-cW9aT9WAY8d3ePA1CI_1Bii9bWF8VwWXVSPkTMWtDvfsn7Q/s720/trimcutter%20copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="720" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjIrsDvlw-14uJk5C3H6uxhqj0k-L0OMQLk82OKx6gjnGSlawizqcHoQiU6oGSZuVaWbbKyOfPKvpkbdSeKfwQ_R9Zuo57TzIMw7vAzqUkoh9sSlkLfLIreJUQIWdf6HD1F8tbbTHhp-cW9aT9WAY8d3ePA1CI_1Bii9bWF8VwWXVSPkTMWtDvfsn7Q/w640-h256/trimcutter%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">If you haven’t checked out our TrimCutter yet, you are in
for a treat!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Van Mark TrimCutter is
a hand-held slitting tool that is designed to extend the capabilities of your
Van Mark cam-lock brake, as well as increase the lifespan of the brake by
cutting down on unnecessary damage caused by utility knives. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The TrimCutter has four ball bearing wheels that allow the
tool to ride along the accessory rails that are built into all current Van Mark
cam-lock style brakes as well as our Coil Dispenser (CD24). Capable of
providing accurate and perfectly straight cuts in your material by using the
clamping F-bar as a guide, similar to a track saw. The TrimCutter is rated to
easily cut through most common metals used in siding and roofing projects from
.019” aluminum trim coil up to heavy 24 gauge (grade D) painted steel material
without requiring any adjustments when going from the thinnest to the thickest
of materials. The TrimCutter also excels at trimming vinyl, steel and aluminum siding
as well, which is most often used to provide a straight and clean edge when
cutting off the nailing flange.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Depending on how you were taught to use a brake, you may
have been shown to use a utility knife to ‘score and snap’ your material to
make cuts. While this does work, it has some inherent downsides. When you use a
utility knife to cut material on your brake, you can damage the stainless-steel
bending edge, the vinyl strip, and as an extra bonus at the end, you are
hacking chunks out of the brake’s hinge system when the blade drops off the
edge of the material. Additionally, the ‘score and snap’ method will leave your
material with a curved sharp edge that can damage your other trim pieces. The
TrimCutter provides perfectly straight factory cut edges that are safer and
easier to work with, while not causing damage to the brake in any way.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So how much does this miracle product cost? Well, for
starters it costs significantly less than replacing all of the brake parts that
can be damaged by using a utility knife. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Let’s do the math:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">For this example, we’ll use a 10’ version of our best-selling
TrimMaster Mark II (TM10-S)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Stainless Steel edge<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>4793<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Vinyl strip<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>3151<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Front Hinge<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>3148B<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Rear Hinge<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>4513B<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1.5in; text-indent: 0.5in;"><b><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Nearly $900 in
parts </span></b><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">And this doesn’t include shipping or
the time to make the repairs.</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">TrimCutter<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>3017<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Roughly <b>$500.00</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><b><i><u><span style="color: #2f5496; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Amounting to at least a $400 SAVINGS<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As you can see, the TrimCutter can actually save you money
over ‘scoring and snapping’ your material by increasing the lifespan of your
brake, while also providing clean, accurate cuts faster and easier than you can
do with a utility knife. Plus, you can cut steel with it, which would cause all
sorts of issues if you tried to use a utility knife.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In summary, the TrimCutter is a must have accessory for your
Van Mark brake to increase your productivity and reduce unnecessary damage each
time you use it. It can easily pay for itself the first time you use it, plus
it makes short work of long cuts. Give it a try, we know you will love it, and
you’ll wonder why you didn’t pick one up sooner.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='656' height='369' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxmmNtmznVPc0ZUCpwDcd2ggqz81jR3pW_uRYtuOfdkhRjBXbft9Z5EhfrlzJeJHRAGgL8PQuKA0V8cZxL5Ng' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-77243171445433173052023-03-28T05:17:00.003-07:002023-03-28T05:17:47.786-07:003 step maintenance for your VM brake<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65gfhHdmEnPlYjlIeF64R9TSjyI_yAq2Rf7zrx2eNlKbGlQKACxPkd40fVZKRInp-Gb_CPm0Y0scwqwL0ZtuYIGUEel-fV9dK4A62qPtHm6kyPOMQzmR6OX8aq8fTJdsBBHWXy8XLhj9sUFAyg9XRGL6xXqZrfkyNp_0bM1MZdyBYfixEOJvXlaTEgw/s1200/3%20step%20maintV2%20copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65gfhHdmEnPlYjlIeF64R9TSjyI_yAq2Rf7zrx2eNlKbGlQKACxPkd40fVZKRInp-Gb_CPm0Y0scwqwL0ZtuYIGUEel-fV9dK4A62qPtHm6kyPOMQzmR6OX8aq8fTJdsBBHWXy8XLhj9sUFAyg9XRGL6xXqZrfkyNp_0bM1MZdyBYfixEOJvXlaTEgw/w640-h426/3%20step%20maintV2%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">3 step maintenance for your VM brake </span><o:p></o:p></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><i>1-<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></i></b><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><i>Clean your brake when project is
completed</i></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">This is the lesson we were all taught as
kids. Clean up your toys when you are done with them. When it comes to a
cam-lock style Van Mark brake, this is very easy. The brake itself can be hosed
off, power-washed, wiped off with a rag, washed with a mild soap, whatever. We
just recommend you make sure to properly dry the brake if you choose to rinse
it off with water. We suggest at least wiping the top and bottom of the
clamping bar (F-bar, colored bar) to ensure there is no debris in there that
can damage your material. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><b><i><o:p> </o:p><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">2-<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Inspect your brake</span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Once clean, it will be much easier to do a
visual inspection of the entire brake. Take a good look at the vinyl strip to
ensure that it is still soft and pliable, that it hasn’t developed a bunch of
cuts or gouges in it, and that its clean and free of any dirt or shavings. This
will protect your material from damage. Then take a moment to lock and unlock
the brake, paying attention to any excessive friction or binding when opening
and closing the brake due to dirt or other contaminants. This would be a sign
that your brake might need a bit of TLC. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><b><i><o:p> </o:p><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">3-<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Lubricate moving parts (optional</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">)</span></i></b></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">Van Mark cam-lock brakes don’t have multiple
metal on metal contact points, so heavy and frequent lubrication is not
required. And in fact, many owners have found that grease or oil ends up
attracting more dirt and debris than when the brake isn’t greased. Our aluminum
cams and cam tubes ride on polyethylene wedges and bushings respectively. These
materials don’t actually require a lubricant, but some users find that the
action is more to their liking when using grease or oil on the friction points.
If you choose to lubricate your brake we recommend a light dab of white lithium
grease or a thin coat of motor oil, nothing more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But again, this step is optional and is NOT
required. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">And
there you have it, 3 quick steps to maintain your Van Mark brake to ensure
decades of trouble-free jobsite sheet metal work.</p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;"><o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-78704556608416347842023-03-14T05:35:00.000-07:002023-03-14T05:35:23.647-07:00Employee Focus: Lloyd Slabaugh<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibe7Sovo_7_VY44RUZkOx1SIHk-tMElghudE3wS29D2gayly5ngBaaW0VDohcK8UgqFwgjqeS4V0FjPt5Sr-iBZ7rzEdmoyJJOmBsdKkPrP9L01YJtLEVL7N7KUFxvKNsfQcchaPnl4kMuEEyu6GM5CmLOkRMag2ZwnzL6q4KgF4P5mRyG6sYNM3S48Q/s1441/Lloyd_EF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1029" data-original-width="1441" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibe7Sovo_7_VY44RUZkOx1SIHk-tMElghudE3wS29D2gayly5ngBaaW0VDohcK8UgqFwgjqeS4V0FjPt5Sr-iBZ7rzEdmoyJJOmBsdKkPrP9L01YJtLEVL7N7KUFxvKNsfQcchaPnl4kMuEEyu6GM5CmLOkRMag2ZwnzL6q4KgF4P5mRyG6sYNM3S48Q/w640-h458/Lloyd_EF.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For the first quarter of 2023 we’re focusing on Production
Associate, Lloyd Slabaugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lloyd became
a member of the Van Mark family in May of 2022 and will be celebrating his
first anniversary very soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lloyd
shared with us how much he loves the people he works with at Van Mark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I appreciate how accommodating everyone
is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can go to anyone with questions
and always get the help I need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel
like we’re a family!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we asked
Lloyd to describe Van Mark in a few words his response was “specialized market company”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He said it’s clear that Van Mark began as a
niche manufacturer but has been able to be successful by expanding our
offerings to reach a wider audience. Lloyd also told us that he takes pride in
his work and always focuses on building a quality product for our customers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We asked Lloyd where he sees himself in 5 years and his
reply was: “I’ve had so much going on in my life that I haven’t even thought
that far in the future!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We understand
how life just gets in the way of planning sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A lot of Lloyd’s coworkers refer to him as “Coach”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lloyd explained to us that he has coached
high school football for over 20 years and coached girls fast pitch
softball.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was even fortunate enough
to coach both of his daughters while they were on traveling softball teams,
which he took great pride in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when
it comes to his own personal time, Lloyd’s favorite things to do is golf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I love it so much. I golfed in leagues while
my kids were young and even today, I’m always trying to get a game in”. Lloyd
has been involved in sports his entire life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He attended Northwood University on a double scholarship where he played
both football and baseball.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In between his
sports obligations Lloyd managed to acquire a bachelor’s degree, an associate
degree and minored in two additional subjects while at Northwood.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lloyd grew up in Roseville, Michigan and resided there until
he left for college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Early in his career
he lived briefly in Chicago and Virginia, but Michigan was calling him
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Family is very important to Lloyd
and that may explain why he ended up moving back to Michigan after only 4 years
living in other states.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s been a
committed Michigander ever since.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lloyd
currently lives in Farmington Hills with his wife Mary and their dog
Charlie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have 3 adult children and 3
grandchildren with whom he loves to spend time with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Keep an eye
out for another employee focus in the coming months and in the meanwhile be
sure to follow us on social media for news, tips, and product information.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-42034608830202729472023-02-09T10:46:00.002-08:002023-02-09T10:46:39.125-08:00Push or Pull – the debate rages on!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9Ej3sYzDE0fd6D02zdkfanpvcxcx68XHI3e-CHStBau04IcWxEFsR5UxnABr4XVsK4o77HYScQm5U1Vr4l6qasTmHRTgwJdqIf7VxhUiQbWmRwiAZuWKcL6bmgzzK9e_N2993X3ldTKZE1m7WUmlhS7AvRYcupnC-yPRe_wsSx2imvze7LJ3k-adeQ/s720/pushpull%20copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="720" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9Ej3sYzDE0fd6D02zdkfanpvcxcx68XHI3e-CHStBau04IcWxEFsR5UxnABr4XVsK4o77HYScQm5U1Vr4l6qasTmHRTgwJdqIf7VxhUiQbWmRwiAZuWKcL6bmgzzK9e_N2993X3ldTKZE1m7WUmlhS7AvRYcupnC-yPRe_wsSx2imvze7LJ3k-adeQ/w640-h256/pushpull%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">At Van Mark our goal is to build quality tools that can not
only last a lifetime but are also easy to live with. Typical bending brakes on
the market use either a push-to-lock or a pull-to-lock system. The unique cam-lock
design that we incorporate into most of our brakes utilizes a push-to-lock
design. We do this for a couple of very important reasons. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>First</b>, to allow for more space to work. When the
locking handle is pushed into place, it is now up and away from the user
revealing more space for the legs of your material that you are bending without
it bumping into the lock handles. This allows you to bend larger pieces in the
brake by flipping the material over and having the longer section pointing up
toward the lock handle. When a brake uses a pull-to-lock design, the handle is
pulled toward you while bending which can lead to the possibility of the handle
scratching or denting your material accidentally. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Second</b>, the cam-lock design self-adjusts to the
material thickness when you lock it, and just like locking any siding brake
properly, it takes some muscle. And as we all learned in elementary school
science class, pushing a heavy object is easier than pulling one. So, we
designed our brakes to use a push-to-lock design to reduce the effort required
by the user. This can really help when you have a big project with a lot of
material that needs to be formed. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Because there are both styles of locking mechanisms on
bending brakes in the market, we often find that new users to a Van Mark brake might
need to take extra time breaking their old pull-to-lock habits. But the analogy
we use when discussing this with people is that it’s similar to driving a
rental car when you are on vacation. When you first hop into the car, you will
surely reach for controls that are in a different location than the car you
drive every day. But by the end of your vacation, your body has adapted to
where the controls are, and you are no longer making that mistake. Using a metal
brake is very similar. Changing to a push-to-lock motion can feel different at
first if you aren’t used to it, but the clumsiness quickly fades as you use the
Van Mark brake.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">But, for those who have tried to adapt to the push-to-lock
method and just can’t seem to make it happen, Van Mark does offer the ability
to change your brake to a pull-to-lock design. But to be honest, you end up
losing both benefits mentioned above, which to us seems to negate the
engineering effort we put into the brake’s design. (read: we don’t recommend
it) It can be done, but it isn’t for the faint of heart, as you need to allocate
some time to the project if you choose to make the switch. But why limit
yourself like that when the brake is capable of so much more when configured as
a push-to-lock brake?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">No matter which method you prefer, Van Mark cam-lock brakes
can suit your preference, even though from where we sit, there really is no
debate. Push-to-lock is the clear winner, and you can be too!</p><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-2248973307592303912022-12-09T08:52:00.000-08:002022-12-09T08:52:28.479-08:00Employee Focus: Gary Weinert<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzEPcgUHzM_hbI8RQvoOY-yBakq_LjeWML0u3jBp7D6CTwXFSIJTnkBHLNwTH49-Ht1m6i27mY-u1xyA3wI5IuqWd16nnc9uhnLNbmxZSVGH9pkpB3RAoybmC-TeAH89-Ww2jg7cAngnNl7qZLPA7BzZ8nlicfJO4jY3VS3lCAvxO01TCOkIKOCKnFQ/s1820/GaryW_EF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1300" data-original-width="1820" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzEPcgUHzM_hbI8RQvoOY-yBakq_LjeWML0u3jBp7D6CTwXFSIJTnkBHLNwTH49-Ht1m6i27mY-u1xyA3wI5IuqWd16nnc9uhnLNbmxZSVGH9pkpB3RAoybmC-TeAH89-Ww2jg7cAngnNl7qZLPA7BzZ8nlicfJO4jY3VS3lCAvxO01TCOkIKOCKnFQ/w640-h458/GaryW_EF.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>To close out 2022 our final Employee Focus for the year shines
the spotlight on our Sales Director, Gary Weinert. Gary joined the Van Mark family in early 1991
and will be celebrating 32 years with the company this February. Gary told us, “It’s great to work with a
solid team that is always focused on meeting our customer’s needs”. When asked to describe Van Mark in a couple
of words Gary said, “Aside from being proud to be completely made in the USA,
we are true to the idea of providing tools that can last a lifetime, or more.” Gary also shared with us that he’s proud to
represent a company that makes high-quality tools that he can “stand behind.” <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Gary tells us that he values the long-term relationships
he’s been able to build and maintain with our customers over the last 31
years. When asked where he sees himself
in the next 5 years he didn’t surprise us with his answer: “I expect to be very
close to retirement and am really looking forward to that phase of my life.” After so many years of loyal service to Van
Mark we must admit that retirement for Gary will be well-deserved, despite us
not being happy about losing a valuable team member.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Gary told us that when he isn’t working, he enjoys golfing
and puttering around his home working on various long-term projects and, when
he’s able to get up north, he loves to go fly fishing. Gary also takes pleasure in traveling with
his family and close friends whenever they can work it into their schedules. Gary grew up in Marshall, Michigan,
eventually leaving to attend Western Michigan University. Currently, Gary resides in Bloomfield Hills
with his wife Nancy, and 2 rescue dogs. Gary
and his wife have 3 grown children who have all finished college and are
beginning careers of their own.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Keep an eye
out for another employee focus in the coming months and in the meanwhile be
sure to follow us on social media for news, tips, and product information.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-22375216210943809872022-10-20T04:54:00.003-07:002022-10-20T04:54:40.867-07:00Metalcon 2022 In review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXHjJuxubyJ4U0zmSyA0IkzygSR-k39TVVvidm1zqbRzJ7LW5YI-ztitM5iHDbuD3-QeHgID8hIy3H1sAPRDV1vFnaKoAOUQ_lZ-pQJ7EIq0IQjOql-PyWiRJBUNDEB7Kzgpoveq_8-eieXTs-BJkubg9SBLwhDLjPvdk0YlMpy7FbhSDnTgFaoXJvw/s720/Blog%20post%20header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="720" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXHjJuxubyJ4U0zmSyA0IkzygSR-k39TVVvidm1zqbRzJ7LW5YI-ztitM5iHDbuD3-QeHgID8hIy3H1sAPRDV1vFnaKoAOUQ_lZ-pQJ7EIq0IQjOql-PyWiRJBUNDEB7Kzgpoveq_8-eieXTs-BJkubg9SBLwhDLjPvdk0YlMpy7FbhSDnTgFaoXJvw/w640-h256/Blog%20post%20header.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMXnPy_fcFC2YYcobVj2WtQGJ5ygaan8qoio-gZrZUIuHDwlNZAwBNiM8oIaR1TxrAh1IGIxsVdI2vra7cFzc8Tv3fIDQTaI-6YmrTB2KQwQCeDgTsSDlZITxt0sykUCFSm4CGqX5zQng12DuIgmwW6RZEc21AWFOPzfn-VALwQLUhdg0gOzplPesdvg/s600/MM20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMXnPy_fcFC2YYcobVj2WtQGJ5ygaan8qoio-gZrZUIuHDwlNZAwBNiM8oIaR1TxrAh1IGIxsVdI2vra7cFzc8Tv3fIDQTaI-6YmrTB2KQwQCeDgTsSDlZITxt0sykUCFSm4CGqX5zQng12DuIgmwW6RZEc21AWFOPzfn-VALwQLUhdg0gOzplPesdvg/s320/MM20.jpg" width="320" /></a>We had a great time last week at the 2022 Metalcon Show. It was nice to knock the cobwebs off and get back out for some face time with our people. It was great to make so many new friends, and these events are always a great opportunity to spend time with old friends too. We had a lot of interest in our Industrial versions of our popular cam-lock bending brakes. We had an Industrial MetalMaster 20 EZ and an Mark IV Industrial TrimMaster on display, both of which were more than happy to continually show off their 24 gauge painted steel bending capabilities in two different form factors, 20” and 14” depths respectively. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWqUY0_WyDc7gjJjRKjf9HlhCnr2suk9WFq26YXeVRDryHl1JuxOX12zzB7NJPkWIkeKBJeuh80VWM3Rue317dvn5EbbxNO7fIC24fdmeO2YD-AU9fXdWM4zj8qg4X-sdE9nDq2P-cUTi47pu2ZlMWPJteTSK8ws-gInZFc_g-n-i5bb_MOseF1aySA/s600/IT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWqUY0_WyDc7gjJjRKjf9HlhCnr2suk9WFq26YXeVRDryHl1JuxOX12zzB7NJPkWIkeKBJeuh80VWM3Rue317dvn5EbbxNO7fIC24fdmeO2YD-AU9fXdWM4zj8qg4X-sdE9nDq2P-cUTi47pu2ZlMWPJteTSK8ws-gInZFc_g-n-i5bb_MOseF1aySA/s320/IT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><p>In fact, we had a bit of a challenge tossed at us in the days leading up to the show. We were involved with some conversations online where we were discussing the bending capabilities of our portable brakes and stating that 24ga jobsite bending was very much a reality with a Van Mark brake, but we were asked to prove it. So, we did, on site, and on camera, with one operator. Without breaking a <br />sweat. This was actually a fun opportunity to demonstrate that Van Mark can, and will, back our product durability and capability claims. Anytime. Anywhere. So don’t test us Bro! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjysLzFRXUowepcXUd4d0Th5NYfbucnGWsqMzzzljhN7fkOa6RW7C7ted9QnABwZp6_1PL_OqmEMJyem_p4plimg1vjLJ30FESNZAZqOVRWrlLyV950aJ20n30UVUH65FCWIybYGNfcbZbSAL_8B5Ebubl0LLykMs0RDfsCKvx9B8nYM6mUsRxJYau_A/s600/booth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjysLzFRXUowepcXUd4d0Th5NYfbucnGWsqMzzzljhN7fkOa6RW7C7ted9QnABwZp6_1PL_OqmEMJyem_p4plimg1vjLJ30FESNZAZqOVRWrlLyV950aJ20n30UVUH65FCWIybYGNfcbZbSAL_8B5Ebubl0LLykMs0RDfsCKvx9B8nYM6mUsRxJYau_A/s320/booth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>We also showed off our affordable compact slitter & perforator combo the SCI24HD. This may well have been the star of our show, as we had many inquiries about it. We suspect that the interest comes from not only the simplicity and durability of the SCI24HD, but the versatility. Since you can perf, slit and rib, or any combination of the three in material as tough as 24ga painted Grade D steel. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALtQKK4awU37a85_CLGkohtfQC7Wr3jQ0toRLOrMQxB2BX6dsMqn6wSbzRJJat5M1WRRxZag7c4kxlkfxHqJgIND4uO0sHrOL9S4A5JnsXKBnaUGElu_hcOrhjD423XSlEj0Q-KHGN0jKoplmkSKRBbLAkE1ZeaeozjPQM_J0leSGRjfSBNZbzr4Sbg/s600/slitter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALtQKK4awU37a85_CLGkohtfQC7Wr3jQ0toRLOrMQxB2BX6dsMqn6wSbzRJJat5M1WRRxZag7c4kxlkfxHqJgIND4uO0sHrOL9S4A5JnsXKBnaUGElu_hcOrhjD423XSlEj0Q-KHGN0jKoplmkSKRBbLAkE1ZeaeozjPQM_J0leSGRjfSBNZbzr4Sbg/s320/slitter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This opens up a lot of options for configuring the machine to accomplish various tasks, often in one pass. Unfortunately, we have to be a bit of a wet blanket on these and remind everyone that we are still trying to get caught up on building these unique machines, so we are currently looking at roughly 12-week lead times on all variants of our slitter. (Sorry! But we really are doing our best to get caught up!)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqRoCW5OTvZN_K3CAq8apdn57p6IcKmdbotWJ2ltVgAZDe1PKPSkQSc2ug-pNdDWqoqw6Px3yoInTR-Qptd-cObN8CSQKRKyNuoK6SMaEWIar5YD4hoiDrNCMAextVPlNNBScJNIuMUkcwvXVhCbWpLpaII22ecaDJTkd2XhCv503FIqQ1mmzE6r71Q/s600/friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqRoCW5OTvZN_K3CAq8apdn57p6IcKmdbotWJ2ltVgAZDe1PKPSkQSc2ug-pNdDWqoqw6Px3yoInTR-Qptd-cObN8CSQKRKyNuoK6SMaEWIar5YD4hoiDrNCMAextVPlNNBScJNIuMUkcwvXVhCbWpLpaII22ecaDJTkd2XhCv503FIqQ1mmzE6r71Q/s320/friends.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>We also participated in a new program this year at Metalcon called the Metalcon Passport Program. This was a fun and unique way to entice people to visit participating exhibitors and learn a bit about them. If you elected to participate, you’d be a ‘traveler’ with the goal being to visit all of the companies in the passport booklet, jot down a fact you learned in your visit and get a stamp in your passport booklet from the exhibitor. At the end, the Metalcon staff randomly selected a ‘traveler’ to win $500 in cash. We enjoyed this program, as it was an opportunity to speak with some great people who might have use for a metal brake, or might not, but they now have a new level of experience with the Van Mark brand and our product offerings.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lEgWcirRbujFf8K37HaOlvVI0FyDv2kBhyWM7Zeb2Lqbh_gxjlStb3sn6xxk9WOGvlCN0BZpSMHgb3OtnOqkItiClVrKqY51tJd0SOXRHIOsMjeJkXKbd2IGu1-GonU5twPwYLFIEuuPrjaEn9LkJq6_9pQmc8DeXKTfzI67knNr4qzGfz00Wq_Kxg/s600/booth1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lEgWcirRbujFf8K37HaOlvVI0FyDv2kBhyWM7Zeb2Lqbh_gxjlStb3sn6xxk9WOGvlCN0BZpSMHgb3OtnOqkItiClVrKqY51tJd0SOXRHIOsMjeJkXKbd2IGu1-GonU5twPwYLFIEuuPrjaEn9LkJq6_9pQmc8DeXKTfzI67knNr4qzGfz00Wq_Kxg/s320/booth1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>The award for the “most creative carry-out order” goes to our new friend O. from Colorado. (all names are changed to protect the innocent) He was so excited about our SCI24HD slitter/perforator combo that he bought the demo unit we used in our booth and proceeded to dismantle it and pack it into a few suitcases to check as baggage on his flight home. Which was probably a wise, albeit challenging, way to get his hands on one while we are still working to keep up with demand. The model we had at Metalcon was actually a bit of a unicorn, in that we had to build it specifically for the show due to all of the supply challenges we are facing with these slitters, so O. was lucky to snag that one while it was available.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjQZd5vvAVeiGn9Ivos0i4kVPN_U_c6PCKQzXfKYRBzbmx1zkFGP2jxGPcW3Pk-sM3oA1rvp5-dwzM3Y0vvxdDlEFrTd3DOuL2GkHvEFJGuzrHqwOl6_jITPdq_sHkLPNN6rexPcyt-CXYdrSke-Ef-HFUQTTx6ighLPy9IRo_YcMTWmuSMiolzhZDA/s600/booth2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjQZd5vvAVeiGn9Ivos0i4kVPN_U_c6PCKQzXfKYRBzbmx1zkFGP2jxGPcW3Pk-sM3oA1rvp5-dwzM3Y0vvxdDlEFrTd3DOuL2GkHvEFJGuzrHqwOl6_jITPdq_sHkLPNN6rexPcyt-CXYdrSke-Ef-HFUQTTx6ighLPy9IRo_YcMTWmuSMiolzhZDA/s320/booth2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>We left the 2022 Metalcon Show on a high note, thanks to all of the great people we were able to interact with, which left us very excited for Metalcon 2023. See you in Vegas next year!</p><div><br /></div>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-78428085433490584682022-09-06T06:35:00.001-07:002022-09-06T11:20:22.839-07:00Jobsite Must Haves<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLWKsKOh_QoVNOuzAYnmmf2b3ULK288eo2LCXCULVO3kB_HYez9UHHR4hlraoJ_5PkZ6lz2HY7bfNx-hcoP5tLw-2yBP88mg347Lu3I9IL6JEJyh4D-qfq5DlsRRgPHR9dyku3d9nmv9JYjk5--z1XEKXOaB4rLnpgPo4mAXaMqrChdPyB74xH7nB6Dw/s720/Jobsite%20must%20haves-BLOG.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="720" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLWKsKOh_QoVNOuzAYnmmf2b3ULK288eo2LCXCULVO3kB_HYez9UHHR4hlraoJ_5PkZ6lz2HY7bfNx-hcoP5tLw-2yBP88mg347Lu3I9IL6JEJyh4D-qfq5DlsRRgPHR9dyku3d9nmv9JYjk5--z1XEKXOaB4rLnpgPo4mAXaMqrChdPyB74xH7nB6Dw/w640-h256/Jobsite%20must%20haves-BLOG.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b> Jobsite Must Haves</b></p><p>When loading up for the next roofing job, siding project or window installation, make sure you have these tools with you to ensure your success. You can probably still get the job done without them, but to make your life easier, make sure you have the right tools for the project. Here are a few tools that you simply must have on hand at your next jobsite.</p><p><b>Metal bending brake: </b></p><p>Depending on the scope of the project, the material requirements will vary, but your metal brake should be able to cover whatever you encounter. Our most popular package to cover the widest range of projects would be based around the Mark II TrimMaster (TM10-S). The Mark II is the workhorse of our range and is capable of bending the most common siding and roofing materials you would be working with and will last a lifetime. Featuring Van Mark’s cam lock design that provides smooth and consistent material clamping, as well as our Powerslot hinge for consistent and accurate bends. Additionally, the newest “-S” version of the TM-10 incorporates our upgraded base castings and pivot arm castings that are lighter and stronger than the previous design, again showing that we are always striving to improve our products, even the most popular ones. </p><p>And if you want to make it a meal, we suggest pairing the TM-10S with our Unistand EZ-Go, TrimCutter and a Coil Dispenser. The Unistand is a surprisingly stable base designed specifically for Van Mark brakes that collapses easily and has wheels to allow you to move around the jobsite as needed, even over rough terrain. Then take advantage of the integrated 4 point guide bearing track system on all current Van Mark brakes by using a TrimCutter for accurate cuts requiring very little effort. And save time and money with a CoilDispenser that will prevent damage to your trim coil material while making it easy to feed pieces directly into the brake after cutting to length using the same 4 bearing guide system and TrimCutter. Its like a portable metal shop on two wheels. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGNrVSw44dWBfe4n7AEAAXI30BS-OQpkD3iD_mFHp-ve7TfTERo3qekaHDQgiDpBfbWA3TpRxNRZMkPNp9TyYU4r60hnGmY1Odb7Ybj9kgFk3XkP4ClLThAS_RxUNDmiGfSsdO51yad8GZabt8VX7D8oFcepLqm5buwwBqb_dpFpSqaLqdwxTj7J22A/s800/gloves.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGNrVSw44dWBfe4n7AEAAXI30BS-OQpkD3iD_mFHp-ve7TfTERo3qekaHDQgiDpBfbWA3TpRxNRZMkPNp9TyYU4r60hnGmY1Odb7Ybj9kgFk3XkP4ClLThAS_RxUNDmiGfSsdO51yad8GZabt8VX7D8oFcepLqm5buwwBqb_dpFpSqaLqdwxTj7J22A/s320/gloves.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>Gloves:</b></p><p>We like our fingers, and hands for that matter. Because of this, we often grab a pair of work gloves when working with sheet metal or metal coil. The best option for metal work would be a pair that are cut resistant. Many companies offer them at widely varying prices, but our suggestion would be to find a comfortable pair that fits well so you don’t feel uncomfortable when wearing them, which we all know will eventually lead to not wearing them at all. Bonus points for a pair that is smartphone compatible. (Many are these days)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SgUeKD_VJxWiPZ7zZWVt_4eoVp0_mCQZYwTt6zLdtxu-R1-XWrzLTcU-4LF1EEGYAbd6KVgRoN00TkzJjCI7HRq6xFmI7-9hvo3JrRvGeSfIKGjMDC4JfvuPX9Y9_bo57LBY93a2ETOEj1wwHvnYK1jtHtAhV9L1cCYuPyEmIdleNrs_WNT6_r0I2A/s800/utility%20knife.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SgUeKD_VJxWiPZ7zZWVt_4eoVp0_mCQZYwTt6zLdtxu-R1-XWrzLTcU-4LF1EEGYAbd6KVgRoN00TkzJjCI7HRq6xFmI7-9hvo3JrRvGeSfIKGjMDC4JfvuPX9Y9_bo57LBY93a2ETOEj1wwHvnYK1jtHtAhV9L1cCYuPyEmIdleNrs_WNT6_r0I2A/s320/utility%20knife.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>Utility knife:</b></p><p>We prefer to cut material with one of our TrimCutter attachments that rides directly on the rails of a Van Mark metal brake for ultra-precise cuts. But we also understand that many guys out there were taught to use a utility knife to score their material for cutting. That said, you can’t argue with the simplicity of using a utility knife with easy to find (and cheap) blades. We like this one from DeWalt mainly because of the angled shape of it that feels more natural in your hand. But pretty much any old utility knife would do the same job. When you tire of the knife slipping off your cut line, or the cuts not being clean after the snap, check out our TrimCutter to upgrade your experience.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJapx3__h28358Nbq6lfamNn-M2M135esdYXMILm9gUzhczGczBqIwr9pND-DWYjo2SuPzIRzQxfSGhjMDYlYYae85FWLbEI5fgilW5rmTfN87crQhfCQ4NaqgkuEHvJxgr0xniogCQYnXmk4NZBnYyfbQYEorss6S3CHFX746Qd2i_cqCKtP1f5AOrA/s800/speed%20square.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJapx3__h28358Nbq6lfamNn-M2M135esdYXMILm9gUzhczGczBqIwr9pND-DWYjo2SuPzIRzQxfSGhjMDYlYYae85FWLbEI5fgilW5rmTfN87crQhfCQ4NaqgkuEHvJxgr0xniogCQYnXmk4NZBnYyfbQYEorss6S3CHFX746Qd2i_cqCKtP1f5AOrA/s320/speed%20square.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>Speed Square/Rafter Square:</b></p><p>These are a massive time saver and serve so many purposes that you really should always have one on hand. This one from Swanson has so many neat features built into it, that we lost count of the ways you can use it, but we particularly like the line scribing options. It does all of the basics, and then some, and it’s easy to read which cant be said for many others. For the price, you can’t really beat it, and it will pay for itself on the first job.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUObdCnJmQxO6U3QGZ8E22YniidFZpDF9Ahud1W2AaKWjP0H6ylqzPDIUogQLbtBGyrvr0qn-DECPZIc9HEJLak7l71lN_JimA0XYh9out3ZSvC6teXEH3dk5DvSKRHAOV5EYo9IDJhY--fzLogQWANawEFaDrIUp3nUSftZTQlvxcM7AKVGkEcL8bQ/s800/safety%20glasses.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUObdCnJmQxO6U3QGZ8E22YniidFZpDF9Ahud1W2AaKWjP0H6ylqzPDIUogQLbtBGyrvr0qn-DECPZIc9HEJLak7l71lN_JimA0XYh9out3ZSvC6teXEH3dk5DvSKRHAOV5EYo9IDJhY--fzLogQWANawEFaDrIUp3nUSftZTQlvxcM7AKVGkEcL8bQ/s320/safety%20glasses.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>Safety Glasses:</b></p><p>Your eyes are simply too valuable to risk an injury. We are strong advocates for always wearing safety glasses. But we also understand that they can become uncomfortable over time, and can be frustrating, and even potentially dangerous if they are constantly fogging up. Finding a pair that fits you well and allows for good airflow while still providing good protection are critical. There are tons of different brands, shapes, and sizes, so find a pair that works best for you, and keep them on!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOAZ4T99hzfhNa1Mb9iRSXcIkqeorGW1L4_8Dwb45yaSsM8sunrswhpbmVd5Ry9caqdByamiozvKk2N9ts_TnasNswwl12zFhKTru2NWMd0zfeq2kEXC0mI6Nn-1nKApiXnNe9yOhOeJgiq5HoHfNo3Z-9Oe-6X7BOm80QgmIrHBoxGbCCwFs93hHvA/s800/tape%20measure.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOAZ4T99hzfhNa1Mb9iRSXcIkqeorGW1L4_8Dwb45yaSsM8sunrswhpbmVd5Ry9caqdByamiozvKk2N9ts_TnasNswwl12zFhKTru2NWMd0zfeq2kEXC0mI6Nn-1nKApiXnNe9yOhOeJgiq5HoHfNo3Z-9Oe-6X7BOm80QgmIrHBoxGbCCwFs93hHvA/s320/tape%20measure.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>Tape Measure:</b></p><p>This might be the most obvious suggestion on the list. All we can say about this is to get a good tape measure that you are comfortable working with and one that can support its own weight when extended. There is little that is more frustrating than a tape measure that folds over on itself when you are trying to measure something. The Stanley FatMax has been around for a while and seems to meet most of our needs. But there are other options out there as well. Maybe pick up an extra one while you are at it since they never seem to be around when you need one. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRKNrxcvi8VVXsdUkOWLzoz76siNKC7O36Yu6xqUZm75SpoOn0NG1DtyuqDlT2MvxbQyW_9NodF7_NOWLvLI72507xVcScHA8alGgAHn5ON-pmePKOa6BCKMwqPr78bhap-0DaLtP1b_BryAYsYRsgrev4BCY9ezx0Wc50cjkKJfHgS1NdOjEHL5nPA/s800/snips.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRKNrxcvi8VVXsdUkOWLzoz76siNKC7O36Yu6xqUZm75SpoOn0NG1DtyuqDlT2MvxbQyW_9NodF7_NOWLvLI72507xVcScHA8alGgAHn5ON-pmePKOa6BCKMwqPr78bhap-0DaLtP1b_BryAYsYRsgrev4BCY9ezx0Wc50cjkKJfHgS1NdOjEHL5nPA/s320/snips.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>Aviation Snips/Tin Snips:</b></p><p>Tools are an investment, and we like to be smart with our money. This is why Van Mark products are as durable as they are, and the same can be said for the Malco line of tools. Their Aviation Snips are unmatched and are definitely the kind of tools we want in our toolbelt or on our bench. They offer a huge variety of different snip profiles, and so many other hand tools with a lifetime warranty that you can’t go wrong when shopping their catalog.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV7d_aZjHkqIDfWSZx97qsHjWj4rYZoo6iq0xq_bdgXEwUtm_S0aI3JpH-_9V4dBJxVO-lOxeHCw8fNizOGnTUSomxeq3RzX98N3zvACUwb2LPEMcYwaCufmkUK9lpsDX0oAkrkTizoz6q2yjmmMelFqmzKLg2dOK555i89E-1TFrhucx1ud8yoXjmgA/s800/pencilVM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV7d_aZjHkqIDfWSZx97qsHjWj4rYZoo6iq0xq_bdgXEwUtm_S0aI3JpH-_9V4dBJxVO-lOxeHCw8fNizOGnTUSomxeq3RzX98N3zvACUwb2LPEMcYwaCufmkUK9lpsDX0oAkrkTizoz6q2yjmmMelFqmzKLg2dOK555i89E-1TFrhucx1ud8yoXjmgA/w320-h239/pencilVM.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>Pencil:</b></p><p>No there isn’t a test today, but you still need a pencil. Pencils are about as low tech as it gets, but no less important. Measuring and marking material is all part of the process, and a good-old pencil gets the job done. Inexpensive, and easy to maintain, a pencil is a must on any jobsite. Grab a few and stash them in the truck or your toolbelt so they are available when needed. As a second option, we have seen that dry erase markers are also common on the jobsite, due to their easy cleanup when used on most materials. Just test your material beforehand so you don’t run into staining issues or marks that are hard to clean after the fact. On second thought, maybe stick with a pencil.</p><p>We hope these suggestions help to make you more efficient and safer on your next jobsite. Best of luck out there! If we can answer any questions about the Van Mark range of products give us a call! 1-800-VAN-MARK (800-826-6275)</p><div><br /></div>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-79403836673394895082022-08-29T10:02:00.000-07:002022-08-29T10:02:19.049-07:00Production and Supply Chain Update – August 2022<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxp9ZO0QCChRnapcwfeYjKFKqZVgH4wvSN9v0cst3F88WKFub0AJDe3LZXO-8v9uMCQRMCQoMObQF75j8j_A6CePcrGI4y8k5NHZh6s0jxF8tpnXG-XAxcuxb3RoHHEvnu6s8aDyp4un-Bdavj_0x1RO-5ghxVxa9UpZmZiQ7FkcJzrTpLzVZ3mwXT_w/s720/Supply%20chain%20update%20BLOG%20header%20copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="720" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxp9ZO0QCChRnapcwfeYjKFKqZVgH4wvSN9v0cst3F88WKFub0AJDe3LZXO-8v9uMCQRMCQoMObQF75j8j_A6CePcrGI4y8k5NHZh6s0jxF8tpnXG-XAxcuxb3RoHHEvnu6s8aDyp4un-Bdavj_0x1RO-5ghxVxa9UpZmZiQ7FkcJzrTpLzVZ3mwXT_w/w640-h256/Supply%20chain%20update%20BLOG%20header%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><u>Return to Normalcy</u></p><p>While we are all happy to see that so much of our daily lives have returned to a pre-pandemic state, there are many things that haven’t yet rebounded, and many that will never be the same. There is still a massive shortage of willing workers that extends from labor-based jobs to executive level positions, and this doesn’t seem to be changing as quickly as we all would like. This worker shortage, and other factors has contributed to other supply chain slowdowns, many of which affect us directly here at Van Mark. For example, we are proud to say that we design, manufacture, and assemble our complete range of products here in the US. But that means that we lean on many Michigan-area suppliers of raw materials that are having a difficult time keeping up with our needs. </p><p><u>Where we are today</u></p><p>We have managed to work through many of our supplier delays and have adjusted our ordering and production scheduling to compensate for the extended lead times, which has really helped us stabilize. We have been able to reallocate our internal labor forces to focus on our primary products, bending brakes, to allow us to begin to catch up on open orders. Though we still have a long way to go, as of today, most of our products are taking much longer than usual, based on current order volume and existing orders. </p><p><u>What we expect for the rest of the year</u></p><p>We will continue to focus our resources on meeting the needs of our customers as quickly as we can. Our metal bending brakes will remain our priority, and other products will get back online as we free up team members and reallocate them to other products in our range. Trim-a-slitters have been the most challenging at this point due to the complexity of the assembly and the skilled man-hours required to build them. We haven’t given up on them though, and we expect that we will begin to see them coming off the production line soon. We will be filling slitter orders based on order date, so we suggest you place orders for them now so we can fill your order as soon as production gets back up and running. Most other products in our range should get back to more reasonable turnaround times as we move into Fall. </p><p>We appreciate your patience and continued support for the Van Mark brand. We want little more than to be able to get back to supplying the quality tools you need, when you need them. We hope to be able to do just that in the coming months.</p><p>Thank you, </p><p>-The team at Van Mark Products</p><div><br /></div>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-6346414550394632742022-08-23T04:53:00.001-07:002022-08-23T04:53:22.042-07:00Employee Focus: Dennis Harris<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3abXnxpK9ztG1f-31LAyC2MTOnWHP57moagJBiYMUkKouJd2E0PUK6qkPGrcNcWKW6KeV6QV96z75bQl7DsZliOBtVydW8djWO3EbC0iuCbN4-oeB8SmHWmFbK8a4IQX2hU7kq7j5_5x9pYlsClwXa3-5XMI6vNmJVK4aB6CELrpRzQiWKmp7pLesRA/s1440/Dennis_EF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1029" data-original-width="1440" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3abXnxpK9ztG1f-31LAyC2MTOnWHP57moagJBiYMUkKouJd2E0PUK6qkPGrcNcWKW6KeV6QV96z75bQl7DsZliOBtVydW8djWO3EbC0iuCbN4-oeB8SmHWmFbK8a4IQX2hU7kq7j5_5x9pYlsClwXa3-5XMI6vNmJVK4aB6CELrpRzQiWKmp7pLesRA/w640-h458/Dennis_EF.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">Our employee focus for the third quarter of 2022 highlights one of our newer employees, Dennis Harris. Dennis became a member of the Van Mark team in the role of Machinist, in June of this year. Dennis told us that one of his favorite things about working at Van Mark is that he isn’t micro-managed. “I don’t have someone looking over my shoulder all the time” Dennis says. He appreciates that he can be independent and trusted in his job duties. Dennis is the type of person that takes a lot of pride in his work and to make sure he’s producing a quality product; he inserts extra quality checks throughout his shift just to make sure he is putting the best possible products into the hands of the Van Mark customer.</p><p style="text-align: left;">When we asked Dennis to describe Van Mark in just a few words he said, “Quality Brake Producer”! Dennis tells us that he’s personally heard the great things customers have said about Van Mark brakes and now that he works here, he understands why Van Mark is considered the #1 brake brand in the industry. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Dennis was asked where he sees himself in the next 5 years and he told us, “I see myself at my own desk running my own business”! Although we would hate to lose a great employee, we can understand the desire to be your own boss and chart your own course. Small businesses are an important part of the economy, and we hope Dennis can reach his goals and make his dream of being a business owner come true.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Dennis stays very busy when he’s not at work. Like any good son, Dennis helps out his mom on a regular basis. He enjoys fishing, swimming, playing basketball, woodworking, puzzles, and vintage cars. He currently has a 1984 G-body Cutlass that he’s been putting finishing touches on in an effort to get ready for this year’s Woodward Dream Cruise! In addition, Dennis and a friend recently teamed up to purchase an aluminum fishing boat which he is looking forward to using as an escape from the every-day, when the time allows or when he just needs a break. Dennis is the father of two daughters and one son, all who are grown. Dennis grew up in the State Street area of west Detroit but has been calling Redford ‘home’ for the past 7 years. </p><p style="text-align: left;">We will feature more Van Mark employees in the near future. In the meanwhile, be sure to follow us on social media for the most up-to-date product announcements, tips & tricks, news, giveaways and much more!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-45542086274861380532022-08-16T07:38:00.000-07:002022-08-16T07:38:49.842-07:00What’s the difference between a Mk1 & Mk2?<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qlf2GQjolqv0rAi8ppXpQpQlC9YoJIETjhpA8WqSsvbHg956I71N6bRKh87c4pBjSqShHptziAgER69jtwr2j5X3A7lDwgkrnnzZuYUgRKCjobgaGderXKPXawddxnJOno9rrZdEGiuAxGXxIQoNVoqCylIOEojHkRMxpK782gslH85CphC6uqFcoA/s1200/difference%20mk1%20mk2%20copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qlf2GQjolqv0rAi8ppXpQpQlC9YoJIETjhpA8WqSsvbHg956I71N6bRKh87c4pBjSqShHptziAgER69jtwr2j5X3A7lDwgkrnnzZuYUgRKCjobgaGderXKPXawddxnJOno9rrZdEGiuAxGXxIQoNVoqCylIOEojHkRMxpK782gslH85CphC6uqFcoA/w640-h426/difference%20mk1%20mk2%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: center;"><u><b>What’s the difference between a Mk1 & Mk2?</b></u></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">Well, there are a few differences, and the most obvious is the color. But the most significant difference is the type of hinge utilized in each version. The Mark I TrimMaster® has proven itself time and time again as a reliable workhorse of a metal brake. This design utilizes a traditional hinge for accurate and repeatable bends. This hinge does exactly what it needs to and has done so since we designed our first brake in 1964. The Mark II TrimMaster® along with many other Van Mark brakes, are engineered with the newer POWERslot™ hinge that provides superior strength and allows for smaller hems, while still offering repeatable precision results with the durability you would expect from Van Mark.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUlwUIpFLPtoTUF_0tzfFp2ioZ0KMFaFONM78R7Uo2bOZYYaYQWDv6CHavFcUTPAGRyWKOBunneJ9hTs31-5h0C6AYWJuuiEBMUBr-axr5A16PAQ6R1B0hq7uEbQMLdVDtTayaTpSUA-jmz81j9mBaZtdUWLUdLMxHTWqk77o5Rp4BXTLOA-2YvnmIw/s800/comparo%20copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUlwUIpFLPtoTUF_0tzfFp2ioZ0KMFaFONM78R7Uo2bOZYYaYQWDv6CHavFcUTPAGRyWKOBunneJ9hTs31-5h0C6AYWJuuiEBMUBr-axr5A16PAQ6R1B0hq7uEbQMLdVDtTayaTpSUA-jmz81j9mBaZtdUWLUdLMxHTWqk77o5Rp4BXTLOA-2YvnmIw/w400-h400/comparo%20copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: center;"><b><u>POWERslot™ Hinge vs. Traditional Hinge</u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">POWERslot™ Hinge</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>5/8" “auto-measure” bend ™ hem</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The 5/8” bend was developed to cater to newer soffit materials</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Strongest hinge available</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">The POWERslot™ hinge was developed for two reasons: to increase the strength of our Industrial Series and Residential heavy-duty brakes and to allow smaller bends. The result was the POWERslot™ hinge that features a hollow core extrusion to provide unmatched strength and free-motion hinge that “auto-measures” at 5 ⁄ 8". The free-motion feature allows the POWERslot™ to keep a targeted, maximum pressure on the material throughout the entire bend. Comes standard on Mark II TrimMaster®, Mark IV Industrial TrimMaster®, Metal Master® 20, and Industrial Metal Master®.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">Traditional Hinge</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>3 ⁄ 4" “auto-measure” bend & hem</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Great for making pieces to cover standard 1” dimensional lumber</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ideal for making fascia pieces over 1”x6”</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-collapsed-heading: yes; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">If you are unsure if you are going to get a Mark I Series™ or Mark II TrimMaster®, simply think about the types of bends you are going to make. If you don't need bends smaller than ¾" than a Mark I Series™ will be perfect. If you need to do bends smaller than ¾" and want a stronger hinge or need a stronger hinge for an industrial application, then you might do better to consider a Mark II TrimMaster® or Metal Master® 20.</p><div><br /></div><p><br /></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-9480945041400105642022-07-15T07:17:00.000-07:002022-07-15T07:17:17.031-07:00Price + Longevity = Value<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA1uruNyKhNi0JbDRPPa5SnKJ2BWNZne5rptVgDpSVmqRdDOJQAOB8zKFczQNj0wd3OR8M3GeAlgFN-4dkS8hH1O6IVbZ3IIVKdpBMXxKAndHx-3KvZRDy98hpFISGB3L-y_ont72SmRbkJ37ad2NEdkZw2qYWg0IeuDOAy0frR2_mPCHUf9zEIZ9ZFQ/s1440/Value%20YKv2%20copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1029" data-original-width="1440" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA1uruNyKhNi0JbDRPPa5SnKJ2BWNZne5rptVgDpSVmqRdDOJQAOB8zKFczQNj0wd3OR8M3GeAlgFN-4dkS8hH1O6IVbZ3IIVKdpBMXxKAndHx-3KvZRDy98hpFISGB3L-y_ont72SmRbkJ37ad2NEdkZw2qYWg0IeuDOAy0frR2_mPCHUf9zEIZ9ZFQ/w640-h458/Value%20YKv2%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>When you can buy exactly the product you want, but at a lower price than usual, that is often an easy way to increase the value of your purchase. But when you begin to shop around and compare two similar products at slightly different prices, finding value may be trickier than you might think. </p><p>You’ll want to consider the long-term cost of ownership when making a large investment in something like a sheet metal brake or any other crucial tool that you use on the jobsite. If the tool isn’t designed well, or built well, or needs constant adjustment, your time investment can increase, which is the last thing any of us need. Our days are already too short, and there are so many other distractions vying for our time that anything that pulls you away from your primary project ends up costing you money in the end. </p><p>When you invest in a Van Mark brake or any other tool in our catalog, your dollars are going toward a tool that can last a lifetime and requires virtually no maintenance when the tool is taken care of. This equates to no loss of time for calibration, adjustments for different materials or any other ‘routine’ maintenance like you may have experienced with lower priced tools. </p><p>This is where the value comes into play. A tool that works consistently and accurately, day in and day out, every time, easily pays for itself over the lower priced product that requires constant adjustment with every use. Van Mark understands this and creates tools intended to be the last ones you’ll ever need to buy. In fact, we still offer wear and replacement part solutions for every brake we’ve ever made since we were founded in 1964, to allow you to maximize your investment over the long term. </p><p>So don’t be fooled by a low sale price when shopping for tools, since the sale price of the product is only part of the actual cost for the tool if you are constantly servicing the darn thing. If it doesn’t last, requires a lot of maintenance or you need to replace the product more frequently, then it wasn’t a good value. Value only comes when you choose products with a fair price and proven longevity. </p><div><br /></div>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-66875567733879282912022-07-05T10:37:00.000-07:002022-07-05T10:37:13.766-07:00New 14” & 20” Throat Depth Metal Brakes – Stronger and lighter!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyvMwLTtLStNSybFChSehCVr1mFhYmYpcEZnaOfGaCYgmv9t-iMBdR_Zmyj8GbiEkEaJmRv0Pi8mo7TZompaTwRAK2RIDEOS93znrFLxwYMeOhEWhnKdu0cNHRf0yJxF3XEn3VRQUDVzZy7q2zF7j63okFgTbBKXppCCorj5PMg9KRca1gDaj7qYEUA/s1440/New14CastingBlog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1029" data-original-width="1440" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyvMwLTtLStNSybFChSehCVr1mFhYmYpcEZnaOfGaCYgmv9t-iMBdR_Zmyj8GbiEkEaJmRv0Pi8mo7TZompaTwRAK2RIDEOS93znrFLxwYMeOhEWhnKdu0cNHRf0yJxF3XEn3VRQUDVzZy7q2zF7j63okFgTbBKXppCCorj5PMg9KRca1gDaj7qYEUA/w640-h458/New14CastingBlog.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">We have some exciting news to share! We recently began quietly
rolling out the newest evolution of our proven range of 14” and 20” throat
depth sheet metal bending brakes. The new models share all the same features
and level of quality you have come to expect from Van Mark, but with one
significant change that you may have seen, but not even noticed. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We have been building the industry’s most preferred metal
bending brakes for nearly 60 years and with so many Van Mark brakes out in the
field, our dies (molds) used to create the 14” and 20” aluminum primary
clamping arm castings and pivot arm castings reached the end of their useful lives.
So, we took the opportunity to make some improvements to the arm design. This
new upgraded casting design has been implemented in the <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/brakes/mark-II-trimmaster-contractor-grade.shtml">Mark II TrimMaster</a>
(both <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/brakes/mark-II-trimmaster-contractor-grade.shtml">residential</a> & <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/brakes/mark-II-trimmaster-hd-grade.shtml">HD</a>), <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/brakes/mark-IV-industrial-trimmaster-industrial-grade.shtml">Mark IV Industrial TrimMaster</a>, and <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/brakes/mark-I-series-contractor-grade.shtml">Mark I Series</a>.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Our engineering team was able to reduce the weight of each
casting by nearly 5%, while increasing the strength and rigidity of the arms by
10% to ensure precision bends for years to come. This change could be seen as
an evolutionary step for our product range, and in no way reduces the quality
of our previous generation, it simply advances our entire product range for
today, and for the future. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">All products featuring this new arm will be designated with
a “-S” at the end of the model number.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As always, Van Mark is here to support our products before
and after the sale by continuing to offer replacement part solutions and maintenance
products for every brake we’ve ever made. We are happy to answer any questions
you may have about our products, general operation of our tools, or to find a
distributor in your area. Please give us a call if we can help!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>800-VAN-MARK</p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-35480499136955146652022-04-12T05:52:00.000-07:002022-04-12T05:52:00.041-07:00Happy Retirement to Julie Sanders<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDH2m2deKrasPImLkeT9Ujw753cNJX_MSHujt-RK_FHNA2lyx8UlKZSozQj21cGEooRicaLRoGvyUDuAMgIDM2i-_bKB-88NdiZaueR-YlPBT0Fb8ufPx231g1HnBYqeve4x3Fh4ID4NoUdSJ2Ax543xrnCIMzglMWo_fpvb6klPvlmUDSnepywodoQ/s1584/IMG_4823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1584" data-original-width="1204" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDH2m2deKrasPImLkeT9Ujw753cNJX_MSHujt-RK_FHNA2lyx8UlKZSozQj21cGEooRicaLRoGvyUDuAMgIDM2i-_bKB-88NdiZaueR-YlPBT0Fb8ufPx231g1HnBYqeve4x3Fh4ID4NoUdSJ2Ax543xrnCIMzglMWo_fpvb6klPvlmUDSnepywodoQ/w304-h400/IMG_4823.jpg" width="304" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKZ-KI7maRF1pTiORfjLaYNO3jewA3H3iXwmxU9PiRSGj3vtdsgJZ5FUiVF26xP3g3uD6RWJzymUaBB1rNdlITvIZwS2gfeezId3pMZGeTmRnSGtSC-bZzLMDETg_D4lIz2SoT8lCNYWUlRj-CoQc6AZsT_xAKRgpOdSYx1QDTTKsQn9xmpa8BYq7nw/s3566/IMG_4820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3566" data-original-width="2311" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKZ-KI7maRF1pTiORfjLaYNO3jewA3H3iXwmxU9PiRSGj3vtdsgJZ5FUiVF26xP3g3uD6RWJzymUaBB1rNdlITvIZwS2gfeezId3pMZGeTmRnSGtSC-bZzLMDETg_D4lIz2SoT8lCNYWUlRj-CoQc6AZsT_xAKRgpOdSYx1QDTTKsQn9xmpa8BYq7nw/w259-h400/IMG_4820.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Julie Sanders, from the Van Mark sales team, retired at the end of March. Julie had been a regional sales manager who was appreciated by everyone at Van Mark, our sales representatives that she managed, and most importantly, the customers she’s worked with. We want to thank Julie for her years of service and wish her the best in what sounds like will be a very busy retirement.</p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-9138184637802833142022-02-24T05:29:00.001-08:002022-02-24T05:29:15.319-08:00Employee Focus: Robert Barney<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjIVi4DMg4K9SzxhLLRudfir3B4VloCxd-MVArUEv1AnVwygDIizxH3QEC71a-E_6Oi-U-23P1vZhbSXg9VCNTYT-jLYHlzhj_GT8CpnNC_SJPj-o7ZXSzuvYTiqNv0tdl0isjS_dlXbiXnwhZra_dzJwc8Omh_iAhiWW6X2YllIHmmvhfoKVbx44cg1Q=s2016" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2016" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjIVi4DMg4K9SzxhLLRudfir3B4VloCxd-MVArUEv1AnVwygDIizxH3QEC71a-E_6Oi-U-23P1vZhbSXg9VCNTYT-jLYHlzhj_GT8CpnNC_SJPj-o7ZXSzuvYTiqNv0tdl0isjS_dlXbiXnwhZra_dzJwc8Omh_iAhiWW6X2YllIHmmvhfoKVbx44cg1Q=w640-h458" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">For our first quarter of 2022 our Employee Focus is on Robert
Barney.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rob joined the Van Mark team, as
a machinist, in August of 2020.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bringing
over 20 years of experience, we welcome the knowledge and skills Rob has gained
throughout his career.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rob told us that
he really likes machining but, he also likes that he gets the opportunity to do
various things while at work, which keeps the day from getting monotonous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also tells us that he enjoys working at
Van Mark because the people are friendly, and he feels Van Mark is very
accommodating to employees.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Rob hopes that in the coming years and, in the course of his
employment at Van Mark, to be more involved with the design side of the
business, whether designing new products, or fixtures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s very excited that Van Mark recently acquired
a new CNC machine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rob said they are
just in the test stages however, “I’ve finally gotten enough programming set up
that we have been able to start machining parts”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ll keep our fingers crossed that all goes
well with that!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In his spare time Rob enjoys woodworking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s built his own CNC router that he uses
for his woodworking and some plastics work. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Impressive, to say the least! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rob also enjoys hunting but, says he’s just
been too busy for the past several years and hasn’t been out in quite some
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rob is also very active with his
church and spends a lot of time with that but, overall, considers himself
somewhat of a homebody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He said, “I like
to do things around the house”, and we know, there’s always something to do!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Rob spent his childhood in the Montrose area and the Flint
area and eventually settled in Flint for much of his adult life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rob relocated to the Whitmore Lake area in
2020 to get closer to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rob shares
his home with a roommate and cat named “Babygirl”.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Look forward
to another employee focus next quarter and be sure to follow us on </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/vanmarkproducts/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0081c3; line-height: 107%;">Facebook</span></a><span style="line-height: 107%;"> and </span><a href="https://twitter.com/VanMarkProducts"><span style="color: #0081c3; line-height: 107%;">Twitter</span></a><span style="line-height: 107%;"> for announcements.</span><o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-5842354090389757862022-01-12T05:03:00.002-08:002022-01-12T05:03:41.814-08:00Van Mark @ International Roofing Expo 2022<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifX4iT1s2JDV_L-OjuIRMJ1aUhDYJtIfQ1MrtEw7hJx2HBx-TooAezkPmTaueC50HwLO_BsB-YGnTH2HTzbpiKoxj5pzAeJVy5ixN-fx_4KujTUctmy_gubszgUyD1avm_ILnZ5fwvYul6CofylNAipR-dVZ63Y8Vkgpzs6O7HTWorRcDL-oguZ_G_Vw=s1128" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1128" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifX4iT1s2JDV_L-OjuIRMJ1aUhDYJtIfQ1MrtEw7hJx2HBx-TooAezkPmTaueC50HwLO_BsB-YGnTH2HTzbpiKoxj5pzAeJVy5ixN-fx_4KujTUctmy_gubszgUyD1avm_ILnZ5fwvYul6CofylNAipR-dVZ63Y8Vkgpzs6O7HTWorRcDL-oguZ_G_Vw=w640-h226" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-color-alt: windowtext; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The IRE
(International Roofing Expo - Booth#2755) event at the Ernest N. Morial
convention center in New Orleans, LA is only a short time away (February 1-3,
2022). Van Mark is proud to announce the tools that will be displayed at our
booth this year, as well as tools that will be used at VSI’s booth (Vinyl
Siding Institute – Booth#1955)</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">We will be featuring our <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/brakes/industrial-metal-master-20-industrial-grade.shtml">Industrial Metal Master 20® EZ </a> built
specifically to meet the rigorous requirements of the Metal Roofing Industry. This
portable job-site brake features a 20” throat depth, the deepest in the
industry, allowing easier bends of wider material. Best one-stop-shop for all
your job site bending, from "W" style valley-pan & rake edges, to
soffits & roof flashings, including wide hip and ridge cap, to name a few.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">We will
also be demonstrating our <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/slitters/trim-a-slitter-perf-combo.shtml">Trim-A-Slitter™ Perf Combo</a> model SCI24HD
designed to slit, stiffen or perforate your roofing steel, aluminum, zinc and
copper. It can also perforate up to 24 gauge painted steel onsite! Reduce your
material costs by producing your own perforated z-bar, ventilated soffit or
ridge cap.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">There
will also be a display of the <a href="http://van-mark.com/gutter-hood-tools/trim-a-gutter.shtml" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0081c3; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Trim-A-Gutter™</span></a>. This gutter hood
forming tool, allows job-site manufacture of gutter leaf protection from
aluminum trim or gutter coil. This unique tool can make the manufacture and
installation of gutter hood simple to form and very profitable. It is available
with all of our gutter hood installation brackets and clips which are used to
easily install the gutter hood formed on the Trim-A-Gutter machine. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Finally, we
will be demonstrating our <a href="http://van-mark.com/utility-tools/nailhawg.shtml"><span style="color: #0081c3; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">NailHawg™</span></a>, a durable
magnetic sweep with one of the strongest magnets available, picks up metal
debris on the job site.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">VSI will
be at IRE and will again have our 2ft model for bending and answer questions
you might have. They are also hosting a couple training seminars, go to their
booth (#1955) to get more information. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Van Mark
has been producing the highest quality bending, slitting, cutting, and
forming tools since 1964 as a family owned and operated company. Our
tools are manufactured AND assembled in the USA. While others may
manufacture the core components offshore and only assemble the tools in the USA
Van Mark produces our tools domestically. Help support the US Economy by
supporting Van Mark.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">To find a
distributor in your area, call or email us at <b>1-800 Van Mark</b> (1-800-826-6275)
| <a href="mailto:sales@van-mark.com?subject=Metalcon%20-%20Distributor%20Information&body=Hello%2C%20I%20would%20like%20to%20request%20some%20information%20on%20where%20I%20can%20find%20a%20Van%20Mark%20product%20in%20my%20area."><span style="color: #0081c3; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">sales@van-mark.com</span></a>. Hope to
see you there at the show!</p><br /><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-33335564305220631862021-09-21T04:41:00.002-07:002021-09-21T04:43:18.312-07:00Van Mark at Metalcon 2021<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnGFiMX2mjw/YUnFTFxBBxI/AAAAAAAAAVo/_tWth6x46NodcWPuOAqVY9o7-P4xjvicACLcBGAsYHQ/s953/metalcon2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="953" height="436" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnGFiMX2mjw/YUnFTFxBBxI/AAAAAAAAAVo/_tWth6x46NodcWPuOAqVY9o7-P4xjvicACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h436/metalcon2021.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-color-alt: windowtext; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Metalcon
Expo is coming up (Oct 5-7 Tampa, FL), and Van Mark is proud to announce the</span><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-color-alt: windowtext; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">portable job-site tools that will be
displayed at our booth this year. - Booth#1137)</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We’ll be showing our <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/brakes/industrial-metal-master-20-industrial-grade.shtml">Industrial Metal Master 20® EZ </a> built
specifically to meet the rigorous requirements of the Metal Roofing Industry. This
portable brake features a 20” throat depth, the deepest in the industry,
allowing easier bends of wider material. Best one-stop-shop for all your job
site bending, from "W" style valley-pan & rake edges, to soffits
& roof flashings, including wide hip and ridge cap, to name a few.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We will
also be showing our portable <a href="https://www.van-mark.com/slitters/trim-a-slitter-perf-combo.shtml">Trim-A-Slitter™ Perf Combo</a> model SCI24HD
designed to slit, stiffen or perforate your roofing steel, aluminum, zinc and
copper. It can also perforate up to 24 gauge painted steel onsite! Reduce your
material costs by producing your own perforated z-bar, ventilated soffit or
ridge cap.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lastly, we
will be demonstrating our <a href="http://van-mark.com/utility-tools/nailhawg.shtml"><span style="color: #0081c3; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">NailHawg™</span></a>, a
durable magnetic sweep with one of the strongest magnets available, picks up
metal debris on the job site.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Van Mark,
for over 50 years, have made a name in the industry by providing the strongest
portable bending brakes found anywhere in the world. We are a family owned and
operated company. Our tools are manufactured AND assembled in the
USA. While others may manufacture the core components offshore and only
assemble the tools in the USA Van Mark produces our tools domestically. Help
support the US Economy by supporting Van Mark.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span>To find a
distributor in your area, call or email us at <b>1-800 Van Mark</b> (1-800-826-6275)
| <a href="mailto:sales@van-mark.com?subject=Metalcon%20-%20Distributor%20Information&body=Hello%2C%20I%20would%20like%20to%20request%20some%20information%20on%20where%20I%20can%20find%20a%20Van%20Mark%20product%20in%20my%20area."><span style="color: #0081c3; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">sales@van-mark.com</span></a>. Our
booth number again is #1137, we hope to see you there at Metalcon!</span></p><br /><p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3443515831904188187.post-57721068983305431922021-08-31T09:13:00.001-07:002021-08-31T09:13:54.834-07:00Employee Focus: Rich Wagner<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FajJ0qCcM3U/YS5U37ID7pI/AAAAAAAAAVY/lyCj7m89Yuc0uEwANVmWEql1CwZHlUx0gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2016/Rich_EF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2016" height="458" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FajJ0qCcM3U/YS5U37ID7pI/AAAAAAAAAVY/lyCj7m89Yuc0uEwANVmWEql1CwZHlUx0gCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h458/Rich_EF.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">For the 3<sup>rd</sup>
quarter of 2021 our Employee Focus is on Rich Wagner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rich handles our International Technical
Sales, among numerous other things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rich
joined the Van Mark team in 2020 and recently celebrated his 1-year anniversary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rich wears many hats and stays busy with many
different projects but, primarily his focus is on working with Sales and Research
& Development.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rich shared with us
that he appreciates that he has the freedom to think and create.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also told us that he feels working for our
family-owned business was a great choice for him and he values the stability
Van Mark offers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">Rich is especially
excited and proud of the projects he’s been working on over the last year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s been very involved in developing some
new products that Van Mark hopes to launch soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I really have the mindset of an Engineer”
Rich tells us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I love to tinker in my
free time at home too” Rich enjoys it so much he has his own lathe, mill, and a
welder in his home garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His hope for
the future is to continue his career with Van Mark and eventually move into a higher-level
management role within the Sales or Operations departments.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">Rich also likes
to keep busy during his free time and, has many hobbies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He enjoys motorcycles, dirt biking, and
mountain biking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also likes kayaking
and skiing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taking care of himself and
staying fit is a high priority for Rich.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rich grew up in the Taylor area and has spent that the last 20 years
residing in Pinckney with his wife, Trisha, 2 dogs and a cat.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">Look forward to
another employee focus next quarter and be sure to follow us on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/vanmarkproducts/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0081c3;">Facebook</span></a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/VanMarkProducts"><span style="color: #0081c3;">Twitter</span></a>
for announcements.</span><o:p></o:p></p>Van-Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02228917989863160643noreply@blogger.com