Manufacturing Week to Highlight Local Industry

We cover Decorah because we love it. Show your love back — donate today. DECORAH — The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce will spotlight local manufacturers during Manufacturing Week, Oct. 3-10. The Chamber will feature member businesses, recognize their contributions, and thank the more than 2,000 people employed in the sector locally. Manufacturing and construction account for nearly a quarter of jobs in the Decorah area, with more than 20 companies, including Stanley Engineered Fastening, Collins Aerospace, Deco Products, Gemini, Iowa Rotocast Plastics and Toppling Goliath Brewing. Deco Products, the largest custom zinc die-casting company in North America, will host a Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., featuring food, music and guided tours from 11:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. "At Deco Products, we are incredibly proud to call Decorah our home," said CEO Chris Storlie. "What many people don't realize is that our name—DECO—is actually derived from the first four letters of Decorah. That connection is more than symbolic. It reflects our deep roots in this community and the values that have shaped us from the very beginning." Founded 65 years ago, Deco has expanded its facility seven times and remains a family-owned business. Storlie said each expansion has marked both growth in capabilities and investment in local jobs. "No matter how much we grow, our commitment to Decorah remains strong and unwavering. This community is part of who we are, and we look forward to continuing to build a future here—together," he said. Jessica Rilling, executive director of the Decorah Area Chamber, said manufacturing is vital to the local economy. "Our manufacturing sector is strong and important," she said. "It's good to remember that manufacturers aren't here by accident. We are grateful to those business leaders who, decades ago, decided Northeast Iowa was the right place for them—their decisions continue to positively impact our quality of life every day." Manufacturing Week, launched nationally in 2011 by the Manufacturing Institute, celebrates the industry's role in the U.S. economy. Local sponsors include Deco Products and Black Hills Energy. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox.