A Career Built on Variety and Challenge: Greg Jones’ Story

Forty Years of Grit, Growth, and Good Humor 

Greg began his career as a welder, mastering techniques across a variety of metals, including aluminum, brass, copper, and stainless steel. For the first 20 years, welding was his world. He embraced the challenges that came with learning new methods, working on different alloys, and obtained his American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Welding Certification.  

When ADI expanded its services and built an assembly department, Greg earned the opportunity to lead assembly and testing, where he found satisfaction in seeing projects come to life and sharing that moment with others. “I like what I do. It’s always interesting, always something new. We’re not building the same widget day after day.” Greg was a one-man department until the team expanded to 20 or so. 

His loyalty to ADI is rooted in more than just the work. Greg has seen the company grow from 10 employees to more than 200, and he values the friendships and camaraderie that have come with that growth. “They’ve never given me a reason to go look anywhere else,” he says. “I’ve always had good benefits, state-of-the-art equipment to work with, and people willing to help out when needed.” 

Beyond the Shop Floor: A Life Anchored by Family 

Outside of work, Greg’s life is centered on his family. He and his wife Debbie are looking forward to celebrating 40 years together next May. They raised three children and now enjoy spending time with their four grandchildren. “We don’t miss a thing for the grandkids. If there’s an event, we’re there cheering them on,” Greg says proudly. From gymnastics meets to family gatherings, Greg and Debbie make it a priority to be present. 

The couple also shares a love for travel and tradition. Every year for their anniversary, they head to Duluth, Minnesota, where they stay near Lake Superior and enjoy the sights and flavors of the region. “We just go up there and chill. We watch ships, eat good food, and enjoy the lake,” Greg says. They explore scenic roads like Seven Bridges and visit local markets before heading home. 

When Greg isn’t working or traveling, he enjoys the outdoors. Fishing on Minnesota’s lakes, riding trails on his new side-by-side, and playing yard games with friends are among his favorite pastimes. He also follows a rock tribute band called Hairball, dressing up in 80s rocker gear for their shows. “We join in and have a lot of fun, sometimes we dress the part” he says.  

Gearing Up for the Next Chapter 

As retirement approaches, Greg is excited about what lies ahead. He and Debbie plan to visit national parks, spend time in Wyoming with family, and take on a bucket-list adventure: traveling the entire length of Route 66. “When I retire, we’re hitting Route 66 from Chicago to California. That’s been on my bucket list for 15 years,” Greg shares. It’s a fitting goal for someone who has spent his life embracing variety and new experiences. 

Greg’s story is one of dedication, humility, and gratitude for his career, his family, and the opportunities that have come his way. After nearly 40 years, he remains as committed to living fully as he was on his first day at ADI.