Spartanics brings a new captain on board

Rolling Meadows, IL (September 16, 2025) – Spartanics is known worldwide as a global leader in precision full-service engineering, manufacturing, and automation technologies for the laser cutting, die cutting,  printing, packaging, and card counting industries, with over 60 years of experience. This group of highly skilled personnel has historically been recognized as the leader in developing industry improvements for the manufacturing processes mentioned above. Spartanics continues to engineer innovations that provide its customers with world-class solutions, shorter developmental lead times, and outstanding design flexibility, all of which help position its clients above the competition.

Changes at the top further solidify Spartanics' position as a global leader.

After more than 20 years with Spartanics, Tom O’Hara is retiring from his role as CEO, and the company is taking this opportunity to introduce Jake Kowalewski as its new CEO. Jake brings with him more than 20 years of experience in industrial automation and manufacturing to this position. He has led international teams in sales, marketing, and engineering, and is coming to Spartanics from his most recent roles as Chief Innovation Officer and Chief Commercial Officer. He brings a proven track record of driving growth through customer-focused innovation and operational excellence. 

"At Spartanics, our mission is to be the ideal partner for our customers, suppliers, and our team," said Kowalewski. "That means we communicate, deliver, and help our partners succeed. We seek to partner with organizations that share a growth mindset and a commitment to excellence. When our customers and suppliers thrive, our team thrives — and that’s what makes our work sustainable."

A New Platform for Growth

As part of its new restructuring, Spartanics is sharpening its focus on innovation and growth. With this in mind, they have partnered with FVWA Capital, which brings with it access to new resources that will facilitate an accelerated push forward towards progress in new technologies.

Spartanics, as part of its new partnership, is continuing on its quest to focus on building strong, stable manufacturing platforms through long-term partnerships. Unlike traditional private equity models, FVWA Capital deploys capital — not debt — to unlock growth and innovation. Its vision is to back leading companies with patient investment and strategic support, positioning them to expand capabilities while maintaining operational stability.

"Spartanics has a reputation for engineering precision and product quality that is second to none," said Felix Henrikson, Partner FVWA Capitol. "We are excited to partner with Jake and the Spartanics team to strengthen this legacy and accelerate growth in the years ahead."

Looking Ahead

Under new ownership and leadership, Spartanics is positioned to enhance its role as a trusted partner to the printing and converting industries. The company will focus on expanding its product portfolio, investing in new technologies, and strengthening its service capabilities to meet evolving customer needs.

Spartanics’ heritage of precision and quality will remain the company’s calling card — and its commitment to quality will only deepen. By combining its longstanding expertise with FVWA Capital’s support and Kowalewski’s vision, Spartanics is charting a future built on innovation, partnership, and sustainable growth.