#United States #Viking Engineering #Blaine #StoneTree #Jason Rykken

Viking Engineering & Development Announces New CEO Jason Rykken

On July 1, 2026, Viking Engineering & Development, a frontrunner in creating automated assembly and fastening solutions for the manufacturing sector, announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of Jason Rykken as the new Chief Executive Officer. This transition marks an important step for the company as it continues to strengthen its position in the industry, following a long history of innovation since its founding in 1975.

Jason Rykken arrives at Viking with an impressive record in global leadership and business growth. Previously, he held various roles at Marmon Holdings, a company owned by Berkshire Hathaway, where Rykken played a pivotal role in expanding their operations and enhancing team engagement. His expertise lies in pushing sales growth, improving service engagements, and solidifying marketing strategies across diverse operational platforms. This diverse experience is likely to benefit Viking as it aims to consolidate its brand and expand its market reach.

Under the previous leadership of TJ Rosengarth, Viking has established itself as a dominant brand within the automated assembly and fastening equipment market. Rosengarth will remain with the company as Executive Chairman and board member, ensuring a smooth transition of leadership. Rosengarth expressed confidence in Rykken's capabilities, stating that his hands-on approach to leadership aligns with Viking's core values and mission. He emphasized that Rykken's vision would enhance Viking's relationships with customers and partners, enabling the company to deliver superior results for employees and stakeholders alike.

Rykken’s mission is to build on Viking’s legacy of trust and innovation, which has been cultivated over the company's 50-year history. He recognizes the importance of maintaining close connections with employees and customers. "Fifty years of trust with customers is not something you inherit lightly. It is something we have to earn daily," Rykken stated, emphasizing that his focus will be on active listening, team investment, and making well-informed decisions that add value.

The company, which has firmly established itself in the pallet and industrial wood product manufacturing sectors, aims to continue its trajectory of innovation and service excellence. Viking specializes in delivering automated wood fastening solutions that help clients streamline production and enhance output efficiency while minimizing labor reliance.

StoneTree Investment Partners, a private equity firm that has backed Viking, is also optimistic about Rykken's appointment. Chris Dupré, a partner at StoneTree and board member at Viking, remarked, "Jason's commitment to fostering high-performing, customer-centric organizations fits perfectly with Viking's strategic direction and StoneTree's purpose of transforming industrial sectors through investment in people."

Rykken holds a B.B.A. degree in Marketing and Management from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. His educational background, combined with his comprehensive experience in the industrial landscape, positions him as a strong leader to guide Viking into its next chapter, as the company embraces new challenges and opportunities in the manufacturing space. As he steps into his new role, Rykken has made it clear that every decision at Viking will be made with careful consideration, aiming to secure the trust of both employees and customers for the next fifty years of success.

In summary, Viking Engineering & Development welcomes Jason Rykken as CEO during a pivotal moment in its history. With a wealth of experience and a focus on people and innovation, Rykken is set to propel the company forward, maintaining its reputation as an industry leader in automated assembly and fastening solutions.