On May 12, 2026, the Daviess County CEO Cohort concluded its final business visit of the year with an impactful trip to J&R Tool Inc.. The group was welcomed by owner and CEO Adam Crouse, who shared valuable lessons on leadership, planning, teamwork, and the realities of operating in a highly competitive industry.
One of the first things students noticed when arriving at the facility was the absence of company signage. Adam explained that because J&R Tool primarily works with Crane and its subcontractors, confidentiality and professionalism are essential parts of the business. The lack of signage reflects the trust their customers place in the company and highlights the importance of discretion in their operations.
Throughout the discussion, Adam emphasized that strong teamwork is at the core of every successful project. Rather than relying on top-down leadership, he believes in building a collaborative environment where talented individuals work together to solve problems and innovate. He encouraged students to surround themselves with people who are smarter and more experienced, explaining that great leaders are not afraid to learn from others.
Adam also spoke about the changing landscape of manufacturing and how evolving regulations have affected the industry over time. In such a competitive environment, especially near Crane where many machine shops compete for specialized work, businesses must remain adaptable and forward-thinking. He stressed the importance of having a long-term vision by developing a five-year plan while also preparing backup plans for unexpected challenges.
Founded in 1994 by Rick Bell, J&R Tool has continued to grow and evolve, with Adam taking ownership of the company eleven years ago. He shared how balancing equipment investments, workforce growth, and future orders requires careful planning and constant decision-making. His insights gave students a realistic view of the challenges and responsibilities that come with running a business.
Adam encouraged the cohort to become lifelong learners and reminded them that networking plays a major role in both personal and professional success. He advised students to “know a little about everything” and emphasized the value of maintaining quality standards not only in business, but in life as well. One message that especially resonated with the group was his encouragement to “be different—and when you say you’ll finish something, follow through.”
As the final business visit of the year came to a close, the Daviess County CEO Cohort left with a deeper appreciation for leadership, adaptability, and the importance of surrounding yourself with strong people. Adam’s honesty, wisdom, and willingness to invest in the next generation provided a meaningful conclusion to a year filled with entrepreneurial learning experiences.
