jim musselman woodys traction master
Amsnow
After 35 years with International Engineering, Jim Musselman decided it was time for retirement, making it official last September. His sons Mark, Brian and Rob and son-in-law Randy Oberson have taken over operations. His role with the company is still significant, however, since leaving the company on a full-time basis. "Now, instead of me doing the project, I support the people doing the project. We have an open line of communication, and I am always available for advice," he said.
Musselman got his start in the traction and control industry back in 1965 with business partner and pal, Woody Kozlow. Musselman had a background in tool and die from working at General Motors, and the two friends began developing carbide wearbars for snowmobile racers.
Musselman said riders back in the 1960s used to put saw blades and other contraptions onto their skis for traction. The Musselman/Kozlow team came up with a better idea. The first set of carbide wearbars were delivered by Kozlow to racer Dana Wiltse. The bars came to be known as Woody's Bars.
International Engineering and Manufacturing (IEM), of Hope, Michigan, has enjoyed numerous successes during its 36-year history. Top product development has always been key for Jim Musselman. The Gold Digger studs and the Hooker System, for which IEM was awarded the ISR Engineering award, are some of the more significant products from the Woody's line.
"All our products are designed, built, tested and marketed here," explained Musselman. Although there have been good years and bad years, he points out, "we've never cut our quality. Over a period of time, people began to realize that we build the best product out there."
Through the years, International Engineering has expanded its workforce to include Musselman family members and relatives. "It has been very good working with my family. But, we walk in the door at IEM and we're individuals, not family members. At five p.m. when we're done, then we're family again," explained Musselman.
Since retiring to Florida, life has taken to a more leisurely pace for Jim and his wife Marlene. A typical day involves reading the paper, driving his golf cart to look at his boat and, if it's a nice day, he and Marlene will take a boat ride, then eat lunch somewhere. He still talks with folks at the plant every few days, attends a few snowmobile races and comes home to Michigan whenever he's needed.
Photos courtesy of Steve Landon, The Winning Edge Magazine