Celebrating Manufacturing Month: Operations Driving Success at Gemini

Manufacturing Month at Gemini is more than just a celebration—it reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence in manufacturing. Investing in our people and demonstrating the importance and stability of manufacturing enables us to actively engage with our partners and communities.

As an industry leader in commercial signage, Manufacturing Month is the perfect opportunity to highlight talented team members whose work shapes the culture and products we proudly create. We sat down with two team members—Becky Gutierrez and Lauryn Breitsprecher—to learn more about their journeys in manufacturing, providing us the stability to make meaningful partnerships and give back to our communities.  

Becky Gutierrez, a Facility and Production Supervisor, is a critical leader at our Taylor, Texas plant, where she has guided her team through the intricate process of creating Formed Plastic Signs for the last 20 years. As a key figure in daily operations, Becky oversees production, ensures smooth workflows, and mentors her team, fostering a collaborative and efficient environment. Her leadership is crucial to maintaining the high-quality standards we are known for.

“It's awesome to see our product from raw material to finished product for our customer. It's always a good feeling I get, and the rest of the team takes pride in it too,” Becky shares. Her pride extends beyond the factory floor—spotting Gemini signs around the country fills her with joy, knowing her team’s hard work is on display. 

Our commitment to the trades extends beyond our facilities. Becky’s youngest daughter recently earned her welding certification while in high school, using programs and machinery funded by Gemini. It’s a powerful example of how our company’s stability enables us to create opportunities for the next generation of skilled workers. Recently, we were featured in Modern Casting, a publication from the American Foundry Society, where we were highlighted on the importance of manufacturing and investing in the future. Read the article here. 

Lauryn Breitsprecher, a Cast Plaque and Cast Metal Letter Manufacturing Specialist at our Decorah, Iowa location, has been with us since 2014. Lauryn's role is diverse, encompassing sales, project layouts, order processing, and hands-on work on the production floor. Her ability to move between departments showcases our commitment to providing opportunities for growth and skill development within the company. 

“I’ve always believed Gemini is a great place to work, so much so that I’ve recommended it to two of my friends. One of them had worked in the food and dairy industry for years and was hesitant to make the switch, but after some encouragement, she joined my team in April—and she’s thriving here.” 

Lauryn extends her contributions at Gemini well beyond her official responsibilities. She’s involved in our quality team and the contribution committee, underscoring her passion for her work and community.

Through the contribution committee, Lauryn and her colleagues contributed to causes they care about, including education and women in STEM. Our long-standing stability within the signage industry allows us to invest meaningfully in the future of our communities. This includes funding trade courses, virtual machinery, and educational programs, ensuring that manufacturing remains accessible and inclusive to all in our communities.

Both Becky and Lauryn are proud examples of how the role of women in manufacturing is evolving at Gemini and across the industry. Becky, the first female supervisor in her plant, encourages women to explore manufacturing careers and break through traditional barriers. “Women can do anything,” she asserts, reflecting on her transition from retail to manufacturing. Lauryn echoes this sentiment, noting that her plant has seen a rise in female employees in recent years. This shift is supported by our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture where women are encouraged to take on leadership roles and thrive in technical positions. 

The Foundation of Gemini: Commitment to the Industry and Our Partners 

For over 60 years, we have built a legacy of excellence, offering various products including formed plastic, plaques, cast letters, illuminated signs, and more. Our manufacturing expertise and capabilities enable us to consistently deliver solutions that help our partners elevate their brands across industries ranging from retail to healthcare and beyond.  

From the signs that guide people into stores to those that advertise iconic brands, our sign products are a part of everyday life. By continually investing in advanced technologies, state-of-the-art machinery, and comprehensive training, we ensure that our manufacturing capabilities stay at the forefront of the industry. This commitment enables our partners to rely on us for consistent quality and innovative solutions that help them achieve their goals. Whether it's a small business looking for custom signage or a large enterprise with complex needs, we are a signage partner for life.  

Inspired to see the impact Gemini is making in the manufacturing and signage industry? Explore our project gallery or follow us on social to discover how our solutions transform businesses.