On February 12, we were honored to receive the Operation Action U.P. Award of Excellence at their annual meeting on the Northern Michigan University campus in Marquette, MI. This award spotlights companies like ours that are leading the charge in economic growth, innovation, and community investment across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. For us at Burton EMS, it is a real validation of the hard work our team puts in every day to deliver top-notch electronics manufacturing services.

Joe Esbrook, President, Co-Chair, OAUP; Gary Burnett Jr., VP of Operations, Burton EMS; Andrew Gille, Director of IT/HR, Burton EMS; David Paananen, Co-Chair, OAUP; Carrie Witzel-Crook, Director of Business Development, Burton EMS; Kristie Nygard, Purchasing Manager, Burton EMS; Robert Luke, Secretary, OAUP
We specialize in printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), surface mount technology, through-hole assembly, and full box builds for industries ranging from automotive to medical devices. We have grown to employ about 70 talented employees across our two facilities right here in Ironwood, and we are constantly investing in cutting-edge technology and training to stay ahead. This award recognizes not just our business expansion but also our dedication to workforce development, such as partnering with local schools for apprenticeships and giving back to the communities that support us.


“We are honored to receive the Operation Action U.P. Award of Excellence,” said Gary Burnett Jr., Chief Operating Officer at Burton EMS. “We’re committed to doing business in the Upper Peninsula and we believe that technology driven businesses can thrive here. The efforts of organizations like Operation Action UP have helped ensure our success and are vital to continuing a positive business climate in Michigan’s Western UP.”
Operation Action U.P. is a regional economic development organization dedicated to promoting business expansion across Michigan’s 15-county Upper Peninsula region. Founded in 1963 following a sobering economic report that compared the area’s outlook to that of the Appalachian region, the organization has since worked to drive investment, support job creation, and strengthen long-term economic vitality in the UP. The Annual Meeting celebrates organizations that are making a meaningful impact on the region’s economic future.
If you are interested in what we do or how we are contributing to the UP’s tech scene, check out our website at www.burtonems.com. We’re always looking for new talent or partners who share our passion for quality and innovation. Contact us if you would like to chat about opportunities or tour our facilities!
