Manufacturing Today Issue - 244 January 2026 | Page 65

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From family roots to industry leader, Dee Zee pioneers progress, diversity, and growth in automotive manufacturing

Dee Zee, Inc. is a leading American manufacturer of high-quality automotive parts and truck accessories. Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, Dee Zee designs and produces durable, custom-fit aluminum and steel products for trucks, SUVs and commercial vehicles, including running boards, toolboxes, tanks, and bed accessories. Trusted by major automakers as an OEM supplier and loved by aftermarket enthusiasts, Dee Zee combines precision engineering with practical functionality to enhance both the performance and appearance of vehicles. Built in the Heartland and shipped worldwide, Dee Zee delivers rugged reliability.

“ Dee Zee was founded by Denny Elwell and Zane Smith,” begins Kelli Gallagher, President.“ About five years in, Zane decided he wanted to pursue something different and that’ s when Ron Shivers, who’ s my
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