117 Years Strong: The Heart of Taylor Entrance Systems
Celebrating ESOP Month with Don Brown, Pierre Sass, and Kevin Sass
In an era where job-hopping is the norm and long-term loyalty is rare, Taylor Entrance Systems in West Branch, Michigan stands as a testament to dedication, community, and the enduring value of employee ownership. This ESOP Month, we’re spotlighting three remarkable individuals whose combined tenure totals an astounding 117 years: Don Brown (43 years), Pierre Sass (37 years), and Kevin Sass (37 years).
A Legacy of Commitment
Don Brown, a Production Material Handler, has seen Taylor evolve through nearly half a century of change. “I’m currently working on the new D line that was just installed,” he shares. “I’ve seen a lot changes in 43 years, but it’s always been a fun place to work. They never gave me a reason to leave.”
Pierre and Kevin Sass, brothers and Production Leads, started together and have grown alongside the company. “Back in the day, the minimum seniority was 15–18 years,” Kevin recalls. “It felt like home.”
For Pierre, staying local was key. “A lot of friends and family moved downstate for work, but this job let me stay close to home.”
Resilience Through Change
When Wausau Supply Company acquired Taylor Entrance Systems, it wasn’t just a business transaction, it was a lifeline. “It was a breath of fresh air,” Don says. “Honestly, we probably would’ve closed if it weren’t for Wausau.”
Pierre adds, “We were unionized, and when the contract broke, the plant closed. The bank kept us running because they had a buyer lined up in Wausau. They saved us.”
Kevin echoes the sentiment: “No one made doors like we did. Wausau needed our doors. They tried other suppliers but couldn’t match our quality. Buying us was a no-brainer.”
Now, as a 100% employee-owned company, the impact of the ESOP is deeply felt. “I’ve shared my ESOP total with younger guys, and they’re amazed,” Don says. “I never had that much in retirement in my first 25 years under previous ownership.”
With Rob Hamood leading the door business and a new distribution center opening across town, the future looks bright. “They’re clearly investing in this area,” Kevin says. “That tells me they’re here for the long haul.”
Between Don, Pierre, and Kevin, there’s more than a century of experience, camaraderie, and pride. “I think I’m the longest-tenured person in the entire corporation,” Don says with a smile.
And as Kevin and Pierre also prepare for retirement in the next few years, their legacy will remain woven into the fabric of Taylor Entrance Systems, a place where loyalty is rewarded, community is cherished, and employee ownership is more than a benefit… it’s a way of life.