Title: Farrier and Owner
Company: DWJ Equine Forge
Location: Cross Plains, Wisconsin, United States
Dean W. Johanningmeier, farrier and owner at DWJ Equine Forge, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Business Owners for dedication, achievements, and leadership in horse shoeing.
With 53 years of experience to his credit, Mr. Johanningmeier has excelled as farrier and owner of DWJ Equine Forge since 1970. Before embarking on his professional path, he pursued an education at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville where he earned a bachelor’s degree in technology in 1968. He is a certified journeyman for the American Farrier Association. In addition to his primary vocation, he remains affiliated with various organizations in relation to his areas of expertise. He was a member of the Wisconsin Farriers Association, the American Farrier’s Association, and the Equine Lameness Prevention Association.
In light of his impressive undertakings, Mr. Johanningmeier has accrued several accolades throughout his career. He was inducted into the International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame in 2011 and bestowed an Honorary Lifetime Membership for Outstanding Dedication to the Equine Industry by the Wisconsin Horse Council. He attributes his success to his love of horses. Alleviating the suffering of horses serves as his primary motivation.
As a young boy growing up in Iowa with his three younger brothers, Mr. Johanningmeier enjoyed trail riding. He discovered his passion for shoeing horses when he noticed their feet becoming sore and realized that no one else was providing this service. After completing his bachelor’s degree, he pursued shoeing horses as a part-time job. After graduation, he was hired at Fort Way and spent two years in the U.S. Army after being drafted and obtaining an extension. He then worked with the USDA Soil Conservation Service, but his part-time shoeing business continued to grow.
One of Mr. Johanningmeier’s most noteworthy accomplishments was his policy of always keeping his door open to customers and their horses. Initially, they would only shoe the horses a second time to observe the results. However, eight individuals spent at least a year under his tutelage, with most coming for three years and one day per week. These individuals provided valuable resources to him, as 80% of his customers followed their suggestions after diagnosis.
In the immediate future, Mr. Johanningmeier wants to recruit more shoers for the Ferrier business. He also plans on building a shop so people can come to him and learn. He hopes to apportion more time for his hobbies which include raising cattle, showing horses, and attending equestrian shows.
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