
Mercury Marine is a renowned manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, with its headquarters located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. However, the company's history goes beyond just this location. In fact, Mercury Marine has a long and rich history in Coralville, Iowa. The story of Mercury Marine's presence in Coralville can be traced back to 1960 when the company established its first facility in the city. The decision to expand into Iowa was primarily driven by the need for additional production capacity due to increasing demand for their products at that time. At this point, Mercury had already been operating for over 20 years since its establishment in 1939. Initially, the Coralville plant was responsible for manufacturing aluminum boat hulls as well as other components such as steering wheels and control cables. This expansion also brought about job opportunities and economic growth within the community through employment and local sourcing of materials. Over time, however, it became clear that there was an even greater potential for Mercury Marine in Coralville - outboard motor production. In 1972, after extensive research and planning by company executives on market trends and customer needs, it was decided that outboard motors would be manufactured at this location. This move proved to be highly successful as sales skyrocketed throughout the 1970s due to increased demand from recreational boaters who were looking for more powerful yet efficient engines. To keep up with demand during this period of rapid growth within the marine industry itself; engineers continuously developed new technologies like electronic fuel injection systems which helped improve engine performance while reducing emissions. In addition to technological advancements driving success at Mercury Marine's Coralville plant; their commitment to quality control played a significant role too. This included investing heavily in state-of-the-art equipment which allowed precision engineering processes resulting in superior product quality being delivered consistently across all models produced here. Throughout these years of development; one thing remained constant- community support from both employees and the local government. This was evident through initiatives such as skill development programs for employees, donations to community projects and environmental conservation efforts. The Coralville plant continued to thrive in its production of outboard motors until 1988 when there was another significant change within Mercury Marine's operations. The company decided to consolidate all manufacturing activities into their main facility in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; citing better efficiency and cost-effectiveness. As a result, production at the Coralville plant ceased by the end of that year. However, this did not mean the end of Mercury Marine's presence in Iowa. In 1990, the company opened its state-of-the-art research and development center on a site adjacent to where their former plant stood. This $7 million facility became the central hub for testing new products and technologies before they were released into production at other locations. In addition to R&D activities, this center also houses various departments such as engineering, marketing and sales support teams; further contributing towards employment opportunities for skilled workers in the area. Today, Mercury Marine continues to be an integral part of Coralville's economy with its research center still operating at full capacity while also supporting local businesses through partnerships with suppliers located nearby. Looking back over six decades of history between Mercury Marine and Coralville; it is clear that both have greatly benefited from this partnership. From providing jobs and boosting economic growth within the community; to being pioneers in technological advancements within the marine industry - this relationship has been mutually beneficial throughout its existence. In conclusion, though no longer producing outboard motors like it once did; Mercury Marine's legacy lives on in Coralville through its commitment towards innovation and quality control which continue to drive success today. With plans for future expansions underway at their research center; we can only anticipate even greater contributions from this historic partnership between a global corporation and a small Midwestern town.
Mercury Marine is an American company that specializes in the manufacturing of marine engines, propellers, and other related parts. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has grown to become one of the leading brands in the marine industry. With its headquarters located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, the company has a global presence with production facilities and distribution centers around the world. The history of Mercury Marine dates back to World War II when founder Carl Kiekhaefer was contracted by the government to produce outboard motors for military use. After successfully fulfilling this contract, Kiekhaefer saw an opportunity to expand his business into the recreational boating market. In 1946, he introduced his first consumer product – a 3-horsepower outboard motor – which quickly gained popularity among boaters. Over the years, Mercury Marine continued to innovate and introduce new products such as sterndrive engines and racing outboards. The company's commitment to research and development led them to be at the forefront of technological advancements in marine propulsion systems. In 1957, Mercury Marine became part of Brunswick Corporation – a Fortune 500 company that focuses on recreational boats and marine engines. This partnership allowed for further expansion and investment in new technologies. Today, Mercury Marine continues to be a subsidiary of Brunswick Corporation but operates as an independent entity within their marine division. One key factor that sets Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is their dedication to quality control throughout every stage of production. From design and engineering through testing and manufacturing processes, each component undergoes rigorous testing before it reaches consumers' hands. This commitment ensures that customers receive reliable products that meet or exceed their expectations. Another significant aspect of Mercury Marine's success is their strong focus on customer satisfaction through service excellence. The company offers comprehensive technical support services for boat owners worldwide through its network of certified dealerships. These dealers are trained technicians who have the expertise to provide maintenance, repairs, and support for Mercury Marine products. In addition to its commitment to quality and customer service, Mercury Marine is also dedicated to protecting the environment. The company has implemented sustainable practices in their manufacturing processes and continuously works towards reducing their carbon footprint. They have also developed technologies such as the Verado outboard engine that meets strict environmental standards while still delivering high-performance capabilities. Mercury Marine's product line includes a wide range of engines, from small portable outboards to powerful racing motors. The company offers both two-stroke and four-stroke options, giving customers a variety of choices based on their specific needs. Additionally, Mercury Marine produces propellers and other marine parts that are essential for boat performance. Aside from recreational boating applications, Mercury Marine also supplies engines for commercial use such as fishing boats, water taxis, and military vessels. Their engines are known for their durability and reliability even in harsh conditions – making them a top choice among professionals in the marine industry. In recent years, Mercury Marine has expanded its business beyond traditional propulsion systems with the introduction of new technology-driven products such as joystick piloting systems and digital controls. These advancements not only enhance boat handling but also improve overall safety on the water. Moreover, being an environmentally conscious company has led Mercury Marine to invest in electric powertrain technology. In 2019 they introduced "Project Zeus," an innovative electric power system designed specifically for luxury boats over 80 feet long. This project showcases their commitment to developing sustainable solutions without sacrificing performance. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's rich history coupled with its dedication to innovation and sustainability has cemented its position as a leader in the marine industry. With a strong focus on quality control and customer satisfaction through excellent service support networks worldwide – it is no surprise that boaters trust this brand above others when it comes to powering their vessels. The future looks bright for Mercury Marine as they continue expanding into new markets and developing cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving needs of boaters. With their long-standing reputation for excellence in design, engineering, and manufacturing, it is safe to say that Mercury Marine will remain a driving force in the marine industry for years to come. In addition to their success as a company, Mercury Marine also takes pride in giving back to the community through various philanthropic initiatives. The company supports organizations such as Make-A-Wish Foundation and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, demonstrating its commitment not only to its customers but also to society at large. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's history and dedication towards providing high-quality products have made them a household name in the recreational boating industry. From humble beginnings as a supplier of military outboard motors during World War II to now being an international leader in marine propulsion systems – the journey of this company has been nothing short of remarkable. Through continuous innovation and sustainable practices, they continue pushing boundaries and setting new standards for performance on the water.
Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, has a long history in Coralville, Iowa. The company was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer in 1939 and originally named Kiekhaefer Mercury. It started as a small engine repair shop in Cedarburg, Wisconsin but quickly expanded into manufacturing outboard motors. In the early 1960s, Kiekhaefer Mercury began to look for a new location for its expanding operations. After considering several cities across the Midwest, they settled on Coralville due to its central location and proximity to major transportation routes. Construction on the first Mercury Marine plant in Coralville began in 1962 and was completed in 1963. The new facility covered over one million square feet and was equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and technology. This allowed the company to increase production of outboard motors from around 160 units per day to nearly 400 units per day. The expansion into Coralville brought significant economic growth to the area. In addition to providing hundreds of new jobs at the plant itself, many other businesses were established or grew alongside Mercury Marine's presence. These included suppliers of raw materials and parts, as well as service providers such as restaurants and hotels. Over the years, Mercury Marine continued to expand its operations within Coralville with additional plants being built in close proximity to their original facility. By the end of the 1970s, they had become one of Iowa's largest employers with over 3,000 employees working at their various facilities. In addition to manufacturing outboard motors for recreational boats, Mercury Marine also produces engines for commercial fishing vessels and military applications at their Coralville plants. In recent years, there have been some changes within Mercury Marine's operations in Coralville. In 2008-2009 during an economic downturn that affected much of the marine industry worldwide; Brunswick Corporation announced plans to consolidate some production lines from their Coralville plant to other facilities in the United States and Mexico. This resulted in some job losses at the Coralville location, but it remains a significant employer in the area. Today, Mercury Marine's facility in Coralville continues to produce high-quality outboard motors and engines for various applications. The company has also made efforts towards sustainability by implementing environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes and reducing its carbon footprint. Overall, Mercury Marine has had a significant impact on Coralville's economy and community since its establishment over 50 years ago. It remains an important contributor to the city's growth and development, providing jobs and supporting local businesses while producing world-class products.
Coralville is a charming city located in Johnson County, Iowa. It is situated just outside of the bustling college town of Iowa City and is part of the greater Iowa City Metropolitan Area. The city's name is derived from the fossilized coral that was found in its limestone deposits, giving it a unique geological history. History Coralville was first settled by Native American tribes, specifically members of the Meskwaki tribe who used the area for hunting and fishing. In 1833, European settlers began to arrive and establish homesteads. The town was officially incorporated in 1873 and quickly became known for its agricultural production. In the late 19th century, Coralville experienced significant growth due to its proximity to natural resources such as timber and coal. This led to an increase in industry, including lumber mills and brick-making factories. However, it wasn't until after World War II that Coralville truly began to flourish as a suburban community. Economy Today, Coralville has a diverse economy with strong sectors in healthcare, education, retail, manufacturing, and technology industries. One of its largest employers is University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics – one of the top-ranked medical centers in the country – which provides jobs for over 11% of residents. The presence of higher education institutions also contributes significantly to Coralville's economy. The University Of Iowa College Of Medicine has established itself as a leader in biomedical research while Kirkwood Community College offers vocational training programs for various industries. Another major economic driver is tourism generated by nearby attractions such as Lake Macbride State Park and Amana Colonies – both popular destinations for outdoor activities like camping and hiking. Culture Despite being a relatively small city with just over 20 thousand residents (as per census data), there are plenty cultural offerings available within Coralville itself or within close proximity via neighboring cities like Cedar Rapids or Iowa City. The annual FourthFest celebration is a beloved tradition that attracts thousands of visitors every year. This family-friendly event features live music, food vendors, carnival rides, and the largest fireworks display in the state. The Coralville Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance performances. It also offers educational programs for both children and adults. For those interested in history and art, The Antique Car Museum of Iowa showcases over 90 vintage vehicles spanning from as early as 1899 to present day. The museum also displays an impressive collection of antique toys and pedal cars. Outdoor Recreation Coralville boasts several beautiful parks with well-maintained trails suitable for walking or biking. One popular park is S.T. Morrison Park which has a disc golf course – one of only four in Iowa City area – along with playgrounds and picnic areas. Another outdoor attraction is Fossil Gorge located within Coralville Lake Reservoir Area which was created by flooding during heavy rains in 2008 when sedimentary rocks were unearthed creating exposed fossils millions years old - perfect spot for fossil hunting enthusiasts! Education Coralville residents have access to quality education at all levels. From preschool through high school level there are multiple options available within city limits alone including West High School – consistently ranked among top schools nationwide by Newsweek magazine – while nearby University Of Iowa ranks among best public universities according to U.S.News & World Report college rankings. Conclusion In conclusion, Coralville may be small but it packs quite a punch when it comes to offering its residents a high quality of life. With its strong economy supported by diverse industries providing job opportunities for all skill sets; cultural events that bring people together; ample outdoor recreational activities; and excellent education options at all levels - this city truly has something special to offer everyone who calls it home.
Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of boat engines, propellers, and parts. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, the company has grown from its humble beginnings to become a major player in the marine industry. Over the years, Mercury Marine has built a reputation for innovation and quality, resulting in numerous awards and accolades. The history of Mercury Marine can be traced back to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin where it was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer. The company initially operated under the name "Kiekhaefer Corporation," with its main product being outboard motors. However, Kiekhaefer was not satisfied with just producing outboard motors; he wanted to create something that would revolutionize the marine industry. In 1940, Mercury released its first production model –the "Super 10" outboard motor which featured a lightweight design and powerful performance. This innovative motor quickly gained popularity among boaters and put Mercury on the map as an emerging leader in marine technology. During World War II, Mercury shifted its focus to supplying military equipment such as generators for amphibious landing craft used by Allied forces. After the war ended in 1945, production resumed on civilian products including new models like the Mark 30 Hurricane (1950) which became popular for water skiing due to its speed capabilities. The next few decades saw significant growth for Mercury Marine as they continued to develop groundbreaking technology and expand their product line. In 1957 they introduced their first stern drive engine –the MerCruiser- which offered better handling than traditional outboards while also providing more power. By this time Mercury had also expanded internationally with distributors all over Europe and South America. Additionally, they opened manufacturing facilities outside of Wisconsin in places like Stillwater Oklahoma (1963)and St Cloud Florida(1971). Innovation remained at the forefront of everything that Mercury did during this time. They were the first to introduce a V6 outboard motor in 1965, and in 1973 they launched the first high-performance stern drive –the MerCruiser TRS. Mercury also made significant contributions to the racing world during this period. In 1958, they began sponsoring powerboat races and went on to win numerous championships throughout the years. Their involvement in racing allowed them to test new technology and push their products to their limits, resulting in constant improvements and advancements. In 1984 Mercury Marine was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, which helped fuel even more growth for the company. Under Brunswick's ownership, Mercury expanded its product line even further with additions like jet drives (1992), electronic fuel injection (2000), and Verado FourStroke engines (2004). Today, Mercury Marine is still headquartered in Fond du Lac but has manufacturing facilities all over the world including Belgium, Mexico, China, Canada, Australia,and New Zealand. The company employs over 7,000 people worldwide who are committed to providing top-quality marine products. Despite being nearly an eight-decade-old company, Mercury continues to be at the forefront of innovation within the marine industry. In recent years they have introduced technologies such as joystick piloting systems that make boating easier and more enjoyable for customers. The success of Mercury can also be attributed to its commitment towards sustainability efforts.In 2019,the company received recognition from Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council for implementing sustainable practices across all of its operations.These efforts include reducing waste production through recycling programs,reducing energy consumption through efficient manufacturing processes,and promoting environmental education among employees. Over time,Mercury Marine has become synonymous with quality,reliability,and performance.With a strong history of innovation,it's no surprise that today they remain one of th
Mercury Marine is a division of the Brunswick Corporation and is a leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. It was founded in 1939 by engineer Carl Kiekhaefer, who started the company with just $2,500 and a dream to build marine engines that were more powerful and reliable than any other on the market. In its early years, Mercury Marine focused on producing racing motors for powerboat competitions. The first engine produced by the company was a two-cylinder outboard motor called "Thunderbolt" which quickly gained recognition for its speed and performance. During World War II, Mercury Marine shifted its production to support the war effort by manufacturing generators and propulsion systems for military boats. After the war ended, they resumed their focus on recreational boating and expanded their product line to include larger outboard motors as well as inboard engines. In 1955, Mercury Marine introduced its iconic "Mark" series of outboard motors which became known for their reliability and durability. This series included models such as Mark 25 Hurricane (the first V-6 engine), Mark 55 Super Thunderbolt (the first six-cylinder engine),and Mark 78A Rocket (the fastest production outboard at that time). Throughout the following decades, Mercury continued to innovate and introduce new technologies in the marine industry. In 1961, they launched their Mercruiser sterndrive system which combined an inboard engine with an outdrive unit for improved handling and maneuverability. They also introduced electronic fuel injection technology in their products during this time. In addition to technological advancements, Mercury also expanded globally through strategic partnerships with companies like Yamaha Motor Company in Japan. This allowed them to reach new markets around the world. The turn of the century brought further growth for Mercury Marine as they acquired several boat brands including Sea Ray Boats Inc., Baja Marine Corporation,and Boston Whaler Inc., further solidifying their position as a leading manufacturer in the marine industry. In recent years, Mercury Marine has continued to innovate with advancements such as their Verado four-stroke outboard engine which offers increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. They have also expanded into electric propulsion systems and are committed to developing more environmentally friendly products. Today, Mercury Marine is headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and has manufacturing facilities in several countries including the United States, Mexico, China,and Belgium. It employs over 7,000 people worldwide and its products are sold in over 100 countries. With over 80 years of history behind them, Mercury Marine remains a leader in the marine industry through its commitment to innovation, quality,and customer satisfaction. Their engines power a wide range of recreational boats from small fishing vessels to large luxury yachts,and they continue to uphold Carl Kiekhaefer's vision of producing high-performance engines that allow boaters to enjoy their time on the water.
Coralville, Iowa is a small but vibrant city located in Johnson County, Iowa. It is situated just north of Iowa City, the home of the University of Iowa. Despite its relatively small size and low profile, Coralville has a rich history that dates back to early Native American settlements. The earliest known inhabitants of this area were the Meskwaki tribe, also known as the Fox tribe. They were an Algonquian-speaking people who lived along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. The Meskwaki made their homes in villages along these waterways and relied on hunting, fishing, and agriculture for survival. In 1833, European settlers began arriving in what would become Coralville. Among them was George Koser who established a trading post near present-day Coralville Lake. This trading post attracted more settlers to the area and by 1855 there were enough people living here to warrant a post office being established. The name "Coralville" is said to have come from one of two sources: either it was named after coral fossils found in limestone quarries nearby or it was named after local resident James Ainsworth's hometown of Coraville (now spelled with an 'a') in Maryland. During this time period, as well as throughout much of its history until recently, agriculture played a major role in Coralville's economy. In fact, at one point during the late 1800s/early 1900s it boasted more than twenty-four dairy farms within its borders! However other industries such as mills for processing woolen cloth have been important too. One significant event that helped shape Coralville's future occurred during World War II when Camp Dodge (not related to Fort Dodge) was built on land just outside town limits where now stands Roosevelt Elementary School; however most buildings are gone except for some foundations which still remain today. After WWII ended and Camp Dodge closed, Coralville experienced a population boom as soldiers who had been stationed there decided to make it their permanent home. This influx of people led to the development of new neighborhoods and businesses, cementing Coralville's status as a growing community. In 1959, Coralville officially became incorporated as a city with its own government and leadership. The first mayor was William "Bill" Ashton, who served from 1959-1961. Since then, the city has continued to grow and evolve into the bustling community it is today. One notable aspect of Coralville's history is its strong ties to education. In addition to being located near the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Coralville also has its own public school district which includes four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. These schools have consistently performed well academically and continue to be an important part of the community. Another significant event in recent history that shaped Coralville was the devastating floods of 2008. The city was heavily impacted by these floods which caused extensive damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure. However, through resilience and perseverance, Coralville recovered from this disaster and has since implemented flood mitigation measures such as building levees along the Iowa River. Today, Coralville is a thriving community with a diverse population of approximately 20,000 residents. It offers many amenities for its citizens including parks and recreational facilities such as Brown Deer Golf Course and S.T Morrison Park Pool; shopping centers like Coral Ridge Mall; locally owned restaurants; cultural events at venues like The Englert Theatre; and much more. Coralville's economy continues to be driven by industries such as healthcare (with Mercy Hospital), technology (including companies like Integrated DNA Technologies) , retail trade (with major employers like Walmart), education (University Of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics) , manufacturing (such Procter & Gamble/ Oral B Laboratories Inc.) ,and finance/insurance (with companies like American Equity Investment Life Holding Company). In conclusion, Coralville may be a small city but its history is rich and varied. From its early Native American inhabitants to the present day, the city has evolved and grown into a vibrant community that offers its residents a high quality of life. Its strong ties to education, diverse economy, and resilient spirit make it an ideal place to call home.
Coralville is a city located in Johnson County, Iowa. It was first settled in the mid-1800s and officially incorporated as a town in 1873. The area that would become Coralville was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sac and Fox tribes. The name "Coralville" comes from the coral-like fossils found in nearby limestone quarries. These fossils were often used as building materials for homes and buildings in the early days of settlement. In its early years, Coralville served as an agricultural community with farms producing corn, oats, hay, and other crops. The railroad came to Coralville in 1868, bringing new opportunities for trade and commerce. This led to increased growth and development of the town. One significant event in Coralville's history occurred during the Great Flood of 1993. Heavy rainfall caused major flooding throughout much of Iowa, including Coralville. The floodwaters reached record levels along both sides of the Iowa River, causing extensive damage to homes and businesses. Despite this setback, Coralville has continued to thrive over the years with steady economic growth and development. In recent decades, it has become known as a hub for education and healthcare due to its proximity to several universities (including the University of Iowa) and hospitals. Today, Coralville is home to over 20 parks offering various recreational activities such as hiking trails, playgrounds, sports fields/courts,and picnic areas. Additionally,it hosts numerous events throughoutthe year including festivals,farmers markets,and concerts.These events bring together residentsand visitors alike,making Coralvillea lively community with a strong senseof camaraderieand civic pride. One notable landmark in Coralville is Brown Deer Golf Club which opened in 1994.The course features18 holes designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus.It has been ranked amongthe top public coursesinIowaandhas hosted several professional and amateur tournaments. Another significant aspect of Coralville's history is its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. In 2006, the city adopted a "Green Initiatives Program" aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices. This program has led to several initiatives such as energy efficiency upgrades in city buildings, installation of solar panels, and implementation of recycling programs. In recent years, Coralville has also seen growth in its retail sector with the development of Iowa River Landing. This mixed-use development features restaurants, shops, hotels, apartments, and a conference center. It has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Coralville continues to evolve while maintaining its small-town charm. Its rich history coupled with ongoing progress makes it a unique place to live or visit in Iowa. With its strong community spirit and dedication to sustainability,Coralville is sureto thrive well intothe future.
Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of high-performance marine engines and boats, with a rich history in Coralville, Iowa. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer as Kiekhaefer Corporation, and it initially focused on the production of outboard motors. However, over the years, Mercury Marine has expanded its operations to include various types of marine engines and boats. The company's connection to Coralville began in 1973 when it opened its first plant outside Wisconsin in the town. This expansion marked an important milestone for Mercury Marine as it allowed them to increase their production capacity and reach new markets. The decision to establish a facility in Coralville was strategic due to its prime location near major waterways such as the Mississippi River. Initially, the plant employed only about 150 people but has since grown exponentially into one of the largest employers in Cedar Rapids-Iowa City metro area with over 800 employees. This growth can be attributed to Mercury Marine's commitment to innovation and quality products that meet customers' needs. In addition to manufacturing facilities, Mercury Marine also established its global distribution center for parts at Coralville site nearly two decades ago. The move aimed at improving customer service by providing faster delivery times for parts needed by dealerships worldwide. Over time, Mercury Marine has continued investing heavily in research and development programs aimed at enhancing product performance while reducing environmental impact through cleaner emissions technology. These efforts have led to numerous awards recognizing their contributions towards sustainable boating practices. One significant milestone worth noting is when Brunswick Corporation acquired Outboard Products Group from United Technologies Corp (UTC) back In May 2000; this included all assets under Evinrude Outboards brand name owned by UTC which resulted from integration between Johnson Electric Company & Johnson Motor Wheel Co both companies were eventually merged into OMC after World War II ended later became part of Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) in 2001. This acquisition provided Mercury Marine with an opportunity to expand its product portfolio and strengthen its presence in the marine industry. In recent years, Mercury Marine has continued to invest in Coralville, expanding production facilities and adding new jobs. In 2016, the company announced a $20 million investment for additional space at their distribution center, creating over 60 new jobs. This move was aimed at meeting the growing demand for their products and improving efficiency. Despite facing challenges such as economic downturns and natural disasters like floods that caused damage to their plant in 2008, Mercury Marine has remained resilient due to its commitment to innovation and diversification of its product line. The company's success can also be attributed to strong partnerships with local organizations such as Kirkwood Community College, where they collaborate on training programs for employees. One notable partnership is between Mercury Marine and Kirkwood Community College's Advanced Manufacturing program. Through this partnership, students have access to state-of-the-art equipment used by Mercury Marine technicians, giving them hands-on experience and increasing employability after graduation. Mercury Marine's impact extends beyond just economic growth but also contributes significantly towards community development through various initiatives. These include supporting local charities such as United Way of Johnson County and sponsoring educational programs focused on preserving Iowa's waterways' health. Today, Mercury Marine continues to play a vital role in Coralville's economy by providing quality jobs that support families while contributing towards sustainable boating practices globally. With plans for further expansion in the future, it is evident that the company will continue being a significant player in the marine industry for years to come. In conclusion, from humble beginnings almost eight decades ago as Kiekhaefer Corporation focusing solely on outboard motors production; today Mercury Marine stands tall not only as one of the leading manufacturers of high-performance engines & boats but also a key contributor towards economic growth & community development in Coralville-Iowa. The company's rich history in the town serves as a reminder of its commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability. As it continues to evolve with changing times, one can only imagine what great milestones Mercury Marine will achieve in the years ahead.
Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, engines, and boats. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer and has been a pioneer in the boating industry ever since. Over the years, Mercury Marine has grown to become one of the most recognized brands in the marine industry, known for its high-quality products and innovative technology. Today, Mercury Marine is a division of Brunswick Corporation and operates out of multiple facilities worldwide including its headquarters in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. With over 6,000 employees globally, Mercury Marine is dedicated to providing customers with reliable and efficient propulsion solutions for their vessels. The company's product line includes outboard motors ranging from 2.5 horsepower to 450 horsepower as well as sterndrive engines that range from 135 horsepower to over 1,500 horsepower. In addition to these power options for boats of all sizes and types, Mercury also produces propellers and control systems such as throttles and shifters. One of the key factors that sets Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is its commitment to innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development every year with a focus on continually improving their products' performance while also reducing emissions and increasing fuel efficiency. In recent years, this dedication to innovation has resulted in several groundbreaking advancements within the marine industry. In 2018 alone, Mercury introduced new technologies such as Joystick Piloting for Outboards which provides effortless boat maneuvering at low speeds using an intuitive joystick control system. Another significant achievement by Mercury was the introduction of Active Trim technology – an automated trim system designed to improve engine performance while reducing operator workload. This feature adjusts engine trim automatically based on boat speed without any input needed from the captain. Aside from technological innovations aimed at enhancing customer experience on watercrafts powered by their engines or drives - another area where this brand stands out is through their environmental efforts towards sustainability initiatives. In 2018, Mercury Marine announced a $10 million investment to expand its global headquarters and research facilities with the goal of developing more environmentally friendly products. As part of this commitment to sustainability, Mercury has developed multiple eco-friendly engines that meet or exceed emissions standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These engines use advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection and closed-loop fuel control systems to minimize harmful emissions while also improving performance. In addition to their focus on innovation and sustainability, Mercury Marine is also dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. The company offers online resources for boat owners, including manuals, maintenance tips, and frequently asked questions. They also provide a comprehensive warranty program for all their products. Furthermore, Mercury has a vast network of authorized dealers worldwide who are trained in servicing their products. This ensures that customers can receive prompt assistance if they encounter any issues with their marine propulsion system or engine. Mercury Marine's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed within the industry. The company has received numerous awards over the years for its innovative technology and environmental efforts. It was named Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year in 2016 by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce Foundation – recognizing companies that demonstrate operational excellence and community stewardship. In conclusion, Mercury Marine continues to be at the forefront of the boating industry through its constant pursuit of innovation and commitment to sustainability. With an extensive product line catering to various types of watercrafts and an unmatched level of customer service support – there is no doubt that this brand will continue setting new standards within this space for years to come.