Photos Provided
During a recent tour of Braun Northwest, I had the opportunity to see firsthand the craftsmanship, precision, and attention to detail that go into building each vehicle. One memorable moment was watching Miguel Cerseda Robles focus on his welding work, demonstrating the skill and dedication required at every stage of the process.
Provided By Braun Northwest
For the C-C Chamber of Commerce
From its roots in Ohio to more than 350 employees in Chehalis, Braun Northwest has built a legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and service to emergency responders.
This year, Braun Northwest, Inc., one of Southwest Washington’s largest manufacturing companies, celebrates 40 years in business. What began in 1986 as a small family operation in a rented building in Chehalis has grown into a nationally recognized manufacturer of ambulances and specialty emergency vehicles, employing more than 350 people and serving customers across much of the United States.
But the company’s history in the emergency vehicle industry goes back even further—and begins more than 2,000 miles away in Ohio.
A Family History in Emergency Vehicles
In the early 1970s, John “Jack” Braun joined his father and brothers in founding Braun Industries in Lithopolis, Ohio. The company manufactured ambulances and developed a reputation for quality and innovation in the growing emergency medical services industry. In 1976, the business relocated to Oakwood, Ohio.
That early experience provided the foundation for what would eventually become Braun Northwest.
In 1986, Jack and his wife, Linda, together with their sons, John and Jim, moved west and established Braun Northwest in Chehalis, Washington. The new company began with just four employees in a rented facility in a local industrial park.
The family brought with them years of experience in ambulance manufacturing, a commitment to quality, and a belief that a successful business could be built by understanding customers’ needs and delivering dependable products.
Forty years later, the company remains family-owned and headquartered in Chehalis.
Growth Across the Western United States
Over the decades, Braun Northwest has expanded from a small regional operation into a major supplier of emergency response vehicles.
Today, the company serves the 13 western states, including Alaska and Hawaii, and has recently established a presence in the north-central United States, creating additional opportunities for growth.
Braun Northwest’s vehicles operate in a wide variety of environments, from remote rural communities to large metropolitan areas. Each customer has different operational requirements, and the company’s ability to design and manufacture vehicles around those needs has been central to its success.
“Our business has always been about building relationships with customers and delivering vehicles they can depend on,” said John Braun, the company’s president. “When you’re building equipment for emergency responders, quality and reliability aren’t optional. They’re fundamental to everything we do.”
Much More Than Ambulances
Although Braun Northwest is widely recognized for its North Star line of ambulances, its product offerings extend well beyond emergency medical transportation.
The company manufactures specialized vehicles for fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and other public safety organizations. Products include fire rescue vehicles, mobile command centers, SWAT and tactical vehicles, hazardous materials response units, search-and-rescue vehicles, and prisoner transport vehicles.
Braun Northwest also provides service, repair, refurbishment, and remounting capabilities to help customers maintain their fleets and extend the useful life of their vehicles.
Manufacturing these products requires a broad range of technical expertise, including engineering, metal fabrication, welding, electrical systems, painting, and final assembly. Much of that work takes place at the company’s Chehalis facilities.
A Family Business Across Generations
Family ownership has remained a defining characteristic of Braun Northwest throughout its history.
Jack and Linda, along with John and Jim, established the business in 1986 and worked together to build its foundation. Over time, responsibilities evolved as the company expanded and developed a professional management team.
Jack retired from day-to-day operations in 2006 but remained actively connected to the business as chairman of the board of directors until his passing in September 2026. His continued involvement reflected both his commitment to the company and the family’s long-term approach to business ownership.
Linda retired from day-to-day operations in 2016 but remains actively involved on the board of directors.
Today, Braun Northwest combines family leadership with an experienced management team responsible for the increasingly complex demands of a large manufacturing operation. But the company’s greatest strength is its workforce.
“One of the things we’re most proud of is the team we’ve built here in Lewis County,” Braun said. “We have talented, dedicated people who take enormous pride in their work. Many have spent a significant part of their careers with us, and their experience and commitment are what make this company successful.”
Forty Years of Investment in Lewis County
Braun Northwest’s growth from four employees in 1986 to more than 350 today represents four decades of investment in the local community.
As the company expanded its facilities, developed new products, and entered new markets, it also created opportunities for skilled manufacturing careers in Southwest Washington.
Those jobs support local families and contribute to the regional economy, while the company’s purchases of materials, equipment, and services support other businesses throughout the area.
The company’s history also demonstrates that sophisticated manufacturing can succeed outside major metropolitan centers.
Braun Northwest’s employees build highly customized vehicles that incorporate advanced technology and must meet demanding performance and safety requirements. Those products are manufactured in Chehalis and delivered to emergency responders across the country.
Looking Toward the Future
As Braun Northwest enters its fifth decade, the company sees opportunities for continued growth.
Expansion into the north-central United States, continued development of specialized vehicle products, and advances in manufacturing technology all offer opportunities to serve new customers and strengthen existing relationships.
At the same time, the company’s leadership remains committed to the principles that have guided the business since its founding: quality, customer service, responsible growth, and a strong commitment to its employees.
“Reaching our 40th anniversary is something we’re very proud of,” Braun said. “It’s also an opportunity to recognize the vision and hard work of Jack and Linda, the contributions of generations of employees, and the support we’ve received from this community. We’re grateful for what has been accomplished, and we’re excited about what lies ahead.”
From its beginnings in a small rented building to its position as a major regional manufacturer, Braun Northwest’s story is one of family, perseverance, innovation, and a lasting commitment to Lewis County.
Photos Provided
Lanni Briggs plays an important role in the hands-on craftsmanship at Braun Northwest, carefully crafting the headrests used in their vehicles. From measuring and shaping materials to ensuring each piece meets the necessary specifications, Lanni’s work highlights the precision and attention to detail that goes into every step of the manufacturing process. It was a great reminder that behind every finished vehicle is a team of skilled individuals who take pride in what they create.
