News
Meet the Team: Sign on With Quality Control
When you ask Josh Barrows what Quality Control does at Univex Corporation, his answer is straightforward.
They inspect everything.
From incoming parts and machine shop components to imported equipment and finished goods, nothing leaves the building without passing through his team. If it carries the Univex name, it has been tested, documented, and approved by Quality Control.
“We make sure it’s running properly. No damage. No surprises. When it reaches the end user, it works.”
Quality control begins at the parts level: buttons, switches, fabricated components, Italian imports and always in-house builds. Even if Univex does not manufacture the part, the team verifies that it meets quality criteria our end-users have come to expect and integrates correctly. Every machine is processed, inspected, documented, and categorized as pass or fail.
If a machine arrives with cosmetic damage from shipping but functions perfectly, it is classified appropriately and sold at a discount, or lent to a showroom with full transparency. If there is a functional issue, it is repaired, replaced, or returned. Every outcome is documented. The goal is consistency and accountability.
Growth and Process Improvement
Over the last few years, the department has undergone significant change. With personnel transitions came an opportunity to strengthen systems and modernize workflows.
Josh credits his team for much of that progress. They have improved organization of finished goods, digitized paperwork, and helped develop updated standard operating procedures. Many process improvements have come directly from the technicians themselves, “They’re hands-on. They see things first. A lot of our improvements start with them.”
The result is a collaborative, communicative team that continues to refine how the department operates.
A Familiar Favorite
When asked if there is a piece of equipment the team enjoys inspecting most, Josh does not hesitate: The SRM30+ 30-quart mixer.
It is a high-volume product, well built, and familiar to the team. That familiarity creates efficiency. His technicians can identify potential issues quickly because they work with the unit so often.
Experience builds confidence, and confidence supports quality.
Innovation Behind the Scenes
Quality Control is not limited to inspection. It also plays a role in innovation and refinement.
With the addition of a laser cutter last year, the team has supported part adjustments, efficiency improvements, and aesthetic upgrades. Some of those updates, including etched Univex logos, will be visible at upcoming trade shows.
Other projects remain in development, but the collaboration between departments continues to grow. Engineering, production, and Quality Control work closely to refine existing products and support future initiatives.
A Moment of Reflection
During the interview, Josh was asked what he would want his team to know if Univex were to shut down tomorrow. He paused. After a moment, he answered carefully.
“I hope they know they made a lasting impact. I hope they know how much I appreciate everything they’ve done for the company and for our growth.” It was clear that the question was not hypothetical to him. It was personal. He spoke about pride in the progress the department has made and in the individuals who contributed to it.
“They’ve done a wonderful job. I’d want them to carry that with them.”
The Culture of Quality Control
The department works hard, but they also value communication and support. Josh makes it clear that his door is open. The team keeps the atmosphere light when possible and recognizes accomplishments together, whether through team lunches or informal celebrations after a major milestone.
“The people are just as important as the output,” he says. “They need to know they’re appreciated.”
Based on the way he speaks about them, they do.
