Stormy Kromer is based in Ironwood, Michigan, and headed by the Jacquart family — Bob and Denise, and daughters Gina and KJ. The roots go deep in Ironwood. In fact, several of their ancestors were among the pioneers who settled the town. The family has opened and grown businesses here since the early 1900s.

The fabric production can be traced back to 1958, when Bob’s dad, Robert R. Jacquart, began making bank deposit bags in his home basement under the name Jacquart Manufacturing. In 1970, Bob joined his dad, and in 1983, he bought the company, changed the name, and transitioned it from a small custom cut and sew operation to a more formal production shop.

Building the company was a true family endeavor. As kids, KJ and Gina spent Saturday mornings at the shop helping customers and making changes. Denise served as a bookkeeper – and came up with the original idea for the best-selling Petal Pusher cap. Bob Sr. even stayed part-time until he was 92 years old.

Today, Gina as president is helping lead the way as the family continues to grow the iconic brand, Stormy Kromer. An American success story, right here in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Snap your ear flaps in the up position and listen to this edition of the Leadership Lowdown!