A classroom and training lab in the Northeast Nebraska iHub will be named in honor of Weiland Doors, recognizing the company’s generous contribution of both financial support and technical expertise to the project.
Weiland Doors manufactures world-class doors and windows for specialty markets, including food production, cold storage, and clean room facilities. Founded in 1984, the company employs 88 people and delivers fiberglass and stainless-steel door solutions that provide maximum food safety and durability for customers across North America.
“Our company wouldn’t be here today if our founder, Leon Weiland, hadn’t developed hands-on fabrication skills during his upbringing on a farm,” said Rob Haake, co-owner and COO of Weiland Doors. “He could see problems, draw solutions using pencil and paper, and then use metal and wood fabrication tools to bring his ideas to life. Today, pencils have been replaced by computers, and saws and press brakes are CNC-controlled. Manufacturing continues to become more high-tech, but the need for technically gifted fabricators who can solve problems remains the same. The iHub is the perfect place to invest in those skills - for both current and future team members.”
This commitment to innovation aligns closely with the iHub’s mission to prepare a highly skilled workforce for the future of manufacturing and technology in Northeast Nebraska.
"Weiland Doors’ investment in the iHub goes beyond dollars,” according to iHub Director Erin Sharpe. “It reflects a shared vision for the future of Northeast Nebraska. Weiland’s leadership in youth robotics has long set the standard in our state, and this contribution will help strengthen the pipeline of skilled talent our region needs. Their commitment directly supports the programs already making an impact and helps us grow opportunities for learners across the region.”
The Northeast Nebraska iHub is an 18,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art workforce development and community fabrication facility located in the 700 block of Norfolk Avenue. Construction on the project is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2026, but training is already being provided in area schools, on the Northeast campus, and at other locations.
The iHub will include wood and metal shops, a prototyping lab, a robotics and automation lab and multiple collaboration spaces for project planning and construction. It will be available via membership to the community and to area employers for workforce training.
Youth robotics and STEM activities are a major component of the iHub, an area Weiland Doors has supported for many years.
“Supporting youth robotics and STEM education has been a passion for our team,” said Haake. “Several of us, including myself, have served as coaches and mentors, and we’ve seen firsthand how these programs develop everything from hands-on building skills to teamwork, problem-solving, and confidence. Those experiences can truly change the trajectory of a student’s life. We’re excited that the iHub shares this passion and will provide a dedicated place in our community where teams can learn, practice, and grow.”
The total iHub cost is more than $8.5 million. Initial funding came from two grants from the U.S. Economic Development Administration totaling $4.6 million and a $750,000 Community Project Funding Request from U.S. Representative Mike Flood.
The College earlier announced two leadership gifts for the iHub: $250,000 from Nucor Divisions in Nebraska and $250,000 from Norfolk Iron and Metal. Additional support has been received from manufacturers, employers, financial institutions, and foundations. The facility is expected to open this summer, with a grand opening being planned for August. As construction comes to a close, Northeast continues to solicit sponsorships and ongoing support for its programming and services once the facility is opened.
For more information on the iHub Campaign, contact Tracy Kruse at foundation@northeast.edu or call 402-844-7240. Online donations are accepted at northeast.edu/give. Checks may also be mailed to the iHub Campaign, Northeast Community College Foundation, P.O. Box 469, Norfolk, NE 68702-0469.
Weiland Doors
Weiland Doors, which employs 88 people, includes (from left) Jason Ash, chief financial officer; Carl Weiland, chief of marketing and sales; and Rob Haake, chief of operations. (Northeast Community College)
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