Reynolds visits The Nelson Company in Fairfield

FAIRFIELD — Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds stopped in Fairfield Tuesday afternoon, at The Nelson Company on West Stone Avenue.

Reynolds toured the facility, a manufacturing plant that creates machine parts for mostly agriculture-related equipment around the globe. She spoke with company representatives about any concerns they had with state government, and met with employees at their machines, posing for photographs and taking questions.

Joining Reynolds on her visit to The Nelson Company were Iowa Sen. Adrian Dickey (R-Packwood) and Iowa Rep. Jeff Shipley (R-Birmingham).

Reynolds said she had no agenda for the meeting, and just wanted to hear from members of the company about the state of their business. Pete Nelson, who founded the company in his garage in 1968, spoke about the company’s operations, how it purchases castings from about a dozen foundries in the Midwest, including partnering with local firms such as Faircast. The Nelson Company provides parts to companies such as John Deere, Case IH, Dexter Axle Company and many more.

Pete Nelson took the opportunity to thank Reynolds for signing a bill this spring that reduced unemployment benefits by 10 weeks. He said the move spurred many people to return to the workforce.

“We came alive during that time,” he said.

Reynolds said she was glad to hear that.

“We’re working with Iowans to find them skills,” she said.

Reynolds asked if the business was able to hire enough workers to fill its open positions. Company president Bob Bowman said the business has 55-60 employees, and that it could use four or five more workers before it’s at capacity.

Reynolds also brought up concerns about the supply chain, asking company representatives if they had any difficulty finding items they rely on. Bowman said yes, the company has been affected by disruptions to the supply chain, particularly in materials such as coolants, castings and cardboard.

The Nelson Company was officially incorporated in 1972, which makes 2022 its 50th anniversary. Reynolds congratulated the company on a half century in business.

Call Andy Hallman at 641-575-0135 or email him at andy.hallman@southeastiowaunion.com