Johnson Level awarded Mid-Size Business of the Year Words: Jeff JohnsonJohnson Level & Tool, a levels and lasers company that makes tools for the masonry and construction industries, was recognized as Mid-Size Business of the Year by Ozaukee Economic Development. During the current recession, to counteract a drop in retail spending and construction trades work, Johnson Level adapted its business processes to maintain and continue its growth, adopting lean manufacturing initiatives that focused on workshop optimization instead of staff reductions, and began expanding international business relationships to increase export to foreign markets. Within these new initiatives, Johnson Level increased its workforce by over 12% and saw a 27.5% increase in revenue. As a third generation family owned business, Johnson Level continues to give back to the community working with the WOW Workforce Development Board, Mequon-Thiensville Board of Education, Chamber of Commerce, Habitat for Humanity, Junior Achievement of Wisconsin and Boy Scouts of America. Francisco Sanchez, Waukesha-Ozaukee-Washington County Workforce Development Board President, said about Johnson Level, "As a locally owned manufacturer with a global impact, the company remains committed to supporting important community causes and business efforts, such as providing leadership on our Board." Robert Johnson, Johnson Level's Co-owner and President, said, "It is our honor to be recognized as the 2014 Mid-Size Business of the Year. We will use this award as additional motivation to strengthen our business and ties to the community."