SJC Drums to open new location in Southbridge
Courtesy/SJC Drums
SJC Drums co-founder Mike Ciprari
Southbridge-based SJC Custom Drums has come a long way since brothers Scott and Mike Ciprari began making drums in their grandmother's basement. This month, the company was featured as a speaker at several local high schools on Manufacturing Day. The company custom builds drums for dozens of bands touring globally, and now they're opening a new production facility. Mike Ciprari sat down with the WBJ to answer questions about the 17-year-old company.
SJC was given the opportunity to speak with students in Southbridge and Worcester for Manufacturing Day. What was that like?
It was great! I love being able to talk about my history with SJC Drums. I'm so passionate about it, and my goal is to inspire others to follow their dreams and show them that they too can turn their hobby and passion into their job.
What goes into making an SJC drum? How many steps and employees are involved?
It's a pretty labor-intensive process, full of passion. We have a 10-step process and usually, 8-12 workers are involved.
Give us an idea of the manufacturing operating in Southbridge. How big is the facility, and how many employees work there?
Currently, 12 workers running out of a 13,000 square-foot facility. In 2018, we will be operating out of 60,000 square feet in an existing building on Worcester Street in Southbridge.
How have SJC products changed over time as music changes?
We're constantly changing and improving our manufacturing methods. This year, we released a few new products to hit the younger demographic, and we released stands and hardware to compliment our drums.
Does SJC run into the same problems as other manufacturers, namely, finding people to work in manufacturing facilities?'
Not so much, fortunately. We attract a lot of passionate workers from all over the country who will move to Massachusetts to work here.
How has SJC changed its manufacturing practices to stay relevant?
We have purchased and made new equipment every year. From CNC machines, to paint machines -- just new ways to increase efficiency and make our product better.
How much automation goes into making drums?
Not too much. We have a CNC machine which drills the holes in the drum for accuracy and efficiency. Everything else is done by hand.
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