TCEDA Recognizes Manufacturing Day

Agriculture and manufacturing are two of the highest-grossing economic sectors in Thayer County and across America. Due to its essential contribution to the nation’s commercial strength, the first Friday in October is nationally celebrated as Manufacturing  Day. Closer to home, manufacturing is a vital pillar for our community and state. Because of the industry impact, the excitement of Manufacturing Day extends throughout the month, giving local manufacturers extended opportunities to open their doors, showcase high-tech careers, and spark the interest of the next generation of innovators and skilled workers. In this spirit, TCEDA says THANK YOU to the existing companies that power our local economy and inspire the future workforce of Thayer County. 

Nursery Jaws

“One way to start a business is to figure out a way to make a task easier to perform …” This quote, taken from Nursery Jaws’ About page, captures the spirit of the manufacturing industry. Businesses are started to solve problems and make life a little better for everyone. Because Nebraska is a major manufacturing state, it’s no surprise that Nursery Jaws was created here.

What are Nursery Jaws? It’s a specialized hydraulic attachment for heavy equipment machinery that reduces the physical burden of moving trees. The website says, “Nursery Jaws are primarily used for moving trees. However, customers can move other items with this attachment. They work great for moving rocks, pallets, and boxes, too.”

Since the first invention in the early 1970s, Nursery Jaws has grown, expanding its inventory to include:

• Nursery Jaws 1 & 2
• Nursery Jaws Hybrid
• Nursery Jaws Jr
• Mini Jaws
• Pallet Paws
• Tree Paws

… and so much more. Because of Lee Vieselmeyer’s idea:

• A business was born right here in Nebraska.
• Quality jobs were created and sustained for decades.  
• The local economy continues to strengthen through innovation and exports.
• Nursery workers, landscapers, and tree movers perform their jobs more safely and efficiently.

This is the type of ingenuity, innovation, and usefulness that has helped shape the manufacturing industry here and abroad. “NurseryJaws is a shining example of the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit we’re proud to foster in Thayer County. What started as a local startup has grown exponentially, proving that innovative ideas can thrive in rural communities. Their forward-thinking solutions and rapid growth showcase the kind of creativity, grit, and industry leadership that put our region on the map,” applauded Carley Bruning, TCEDA Executive Director. And this is just an example of why Manufacturing Day is so important, along with why it extends throughout the month. 

Thrive in Thayer County

Again, TCEDA thanks all new and existing manufacturing companies for being in Thayer County, stabilizing our workforce and growing our economy.

Thayer County is a place where manufacturing careers and quality of life go hand in hand. Our existing companies continue to grow and offer dozens of rewarding job opportunities, thanks to a strong work ethic and supportive business environment. With low unemployment and high demand for skilled talent, we invite individuals and families to discover the advantages of building a career here—where you can enjoy small-town living, room to grow, and the stability of a thriving manufacturing sector.

In addition to new jobs, many of our long-standing manufacturing and industry-related businesses are preparing for leadership transitions and succession. This opens the door for the next generation of skilled workers, managers, and entrepreneurs to step in—whether by advancing within a company, taking on ownership, or leading innovation.

Thayer County offers not just a job, but a pathway to long-term career growth and the opportunity to shape the future of our local manufacturing economy. Contact Carley Bruning at 402-768-7407 or director.tceda@gmail.com for more information.