05/20/2026
Well, folks, it's that magical time of year again — the snow has melted, the lakes are thawing out, and friends are beginning to make their way back to the Northwoods after a long winter hibernation. The loons are calling, the fish are biting, and the smell of sunscreen and campfire is just around the corner. There is truly no place like it on earth.
Now, I'll be the first to admit — I'm not usually one to sit down and reflect on life. I'm more of a "keep your head down and get the job done" kind of person. But recent events have nudged me off the sidelines and into my feelings a little bit, and I have to say, there is a whole lot to be grateful for around here. So, grab your morning coffee, find a comfortable chair on the porch, and bear with me for a few minutes — this one comes from the heart.
There are many exciting changes happening at Kozar Technologies, and we are growing the family in more ways than one! Change can be intimidating, but around here we like to think of it as a sign that good things are happening. The team is evolving, the business is moving forward, and the future looks bright.
First and foremost, we want to give a huge warm welcome to Vanessa, our newest addition to the office crew. In the short time she has been with us, Vanessa has already made a tremendous impact on the business. She hit the ground running from day one, and we honestly aren't sure how we ever managed without her. If you call into the office, there's a good chance you'll hear her friendly voice on the other end — so be sure to say hello and make her feel right at home.
We also want to extend a big welcome to Brandon, who has joined us out in the field. Brandon is a fantastic addition to the crew and has been getting up to speed at an impressive pace. He's hardworking, eager, and fitting in like he's been here for years. Keep an eye out for him — at the rate he's going, he just might lap the rest of us before long!
Of course, none of this growth would be possible without the guys who have been holding things together all along. A big shoutout to our veteran field techs Nick, Adam, and Andy — the backbone of our operation. These guys show up day in and day out, know the job inside and out, and keep everything running smoothly no matter what gets thrown at them. Brandon couldn't have landed in better company, and honestly, we think the feeling is mutual. If you've worked with any of them over the years, you already know — we've got a great crew out there representing Kozar every single day!
Now, as I mentioned, life has a funny way of handing you moments that make you feel two completely opposite things at the exact same time. This week, we have one of those bittersweet moments here at Kozar, and it's a big one.
Our longtime employee and dear friend Ed will be retiring, with Friday marking his final day with us. Ed has been a cornerstone of this team for years, and his contributions to Kozar Technologies are immeasurable. He has shown up, put in the work, and done it all with a dedication that is truly rare. We could fill an entire newsletter just talking about what Ed has meant to this company and the people in it — but we'll spare him the embarrassment. What we will say is this: Ed, you have more than earned this next chapter. You are off to spend your days at the rinks, doing exactly what you love, and living the retirement dream. You will be deeply missed around here, but we are so happy for you. Don't be a stranger — and if you ever feel like coming back, you know where to find us!
On another happy note, here at Kozar, we like to think ahead when it comes to building great talent for the future. It is something we take seriously, and we are proud to say that our employee pipeline is looking very strong right now. As in, newborn strong.
Last week, our very own Josh and his wife McKenna welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world. Her name is Lucy, and we are absolutely thrilled for their growing family. Now, we've done the math, and if Lucy follows in her Dad's and Grandpa's footsteps — which, let's be honest, seems pretty likely — she should be ready to join the Kozar crew in approximately 16 years. We've already got great expectations for her. Welcome to the world, Lucy! Enjoy these next couple of decades off — you've earned them before you've even started.
And that, dear friends, wraps up my very rare, completely unplanned, and surprisingly heartfelt reflection on life here at Kozar. It doesn't happen often, so soak it in while you can!
The next time you call the office, say hello to Vanessa — she'd love to hear from you. The next time you spot a Kozar truck out in the field, there's a good chance Brandon is behind the wheel. And in about 16 years, well... keep an eye out for Lucy. One way or another, this family just keeps on growing, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
From all of us here at Kozar Technologies, we want to say thank you — thank you for your loyalty, your support, and for being part of our story. We are so grateful for every single one of you.
Now get out there, soak up that summer sunshine, and enjoy every beautiful moment that the Northwoods has to offer. 🌲☀️
