After working as an application engineer for a machine tool builder in Germany as well as holding technical roles with a couple other companies, JR Lang took the leap of faith and started his own business in 2006. Midwest Turned Products (Gilberts, Illinois) specializes in medium to large production quantities for a variety of industry segments such as aerospace, marine, electronics, firearms and food service equipment. The company’s unique approach to manufacturing has incorporated high levels of automation and lights-out manufacturing since its founding. The facility comprises of both Swiss-type and multi-axis turning equipment, all designed to run complex parts with little human intervention. Since the company’s early days, JR has shifted the company from a primary focus of production, applications and programming, now to business strategy, sales and marketing.

“Living the American dream has been a road with plenty of ups and downs, but I’ve been blessed in the ability to provide employment and forge partnerships with many eager and hardworking individuals along the way,” he says. “I’ve been equally blessed to work with so many great customers and vendors in the CNC machining community.”

MTP customers quickly realize that JR has created a company that’s unique, with staff who are willing to commit themselves to walking the extra mile for products to be delivered on time and at the highest level of quality, according to business development executive at MTP and JR’s nominator, Schalk van Niekerk.

JR is a leader not only in the precision machined parts industry, but also in his community. He has a leadership role at a local church and is involved in two business leadership groups, where he shares his expertise and experience to fine tune his own skills while helping other emerging leaders develop their talents and business strategy.

“As a prominent young business and community leader, JR continues to inspire and invest in those around him with a determination to see others succeed,” Mr. van Niekerk says.

To read an article Production Machining published about JR Lang and Midwest Turned Products, visit “A Youthful Approach to Production Machining.”

To nominate an Emerging Leader for our 2019 awards, visit productionmachining.com/forms/emergingleaders.

To learn more about the 2018 Emerging Leader winners, click here.