OZ Lifting Products, a manufacturer of davit cranes and industrial lifting equipment based in Winona, Minnesota, has announced a commitment to support law enforcement efforts through a new initiative aimed at training police dogs. The company will fund the training of a new police dog every year through the Code Blue K9 program, with the first K9 set to be delivered to the City of New Hampton Police Department in Iowa next year.
As part of the initiative, OZ Lifting is providing additional support by allowing dog trainer Trace Erickson, a former law enforcement officer, to use an outbuilding at the company’s newly constructed 40,000-square-foot facility. Erickson plans to run a 13-week K9 training program twice annually, in the Spring and Fall, to help prepare dogs for police work.
The announcement coincided with #GivingTuesday on December 3, a global day of generosity that encourages people to support meaningful causes. OZ Lifting’s contribution underscores its commitment to giving back to the community and providing resources to help law enforcement agencies in need.
Steve Napieralski, president of OZ Lifting, explained how the partnership with Code Blue K9 came about after meeting Erickson at a local YMCA. “Trace told me that many police departments want to have a dog on staff but can’t afford the upfront costs,” Napieralski said. “My wife, Jane, and I felt this was a way to give back to a community that has supported us for years. We hope other departments in need will submit requests for a dog, and we will select which one to support based on their needs.”
New Hampton Police Chief Conrad Rosendahl wrote in his submission that the department had recently lost its K9 to another law enforcement agency. Replacing the dog would not only enhance officer safety by providing additional handler protection, but also aid in the fight against illegal narcotics in a region known for drug trafficking. The dog will be trained for search-and-rescue operations and be available for patrols in schools, parks, businesses, and walking trails. Additionally, it will help provide critical backup to officers who often work solo.
As part of the program, all dogs funded by OZ Lifting and trained by Erickson will carry the name “OZ” in honor of the company’s involvement, creating a lasting legacy. “This gives the initiative a personal touch and allows the community to remember the positive impact the company has made,” Napieralski said. “It’s a way to connect our business with the communities we serve.”
Napieralski also noted the significant role that police K9s play in law enforcement. “Police dogs offer a safer alternative to traditional use-of-force methods. A K9 can deter suspects from fleeing or using violence, and they’re the only force that can be called off immediately without harm.” He added that K9 units are also crucial for drug detection, which is especially important in the Midwest, where drug-related crime remains a significant challenge.
The commitment to funding police dog training is just one of many charitable efforts supported by OZ Lifting. In 2023, the company donated more than $10,000 to local organizations, including the American Legion, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, and the Winona Area Humane Society. It also supports local youth sports, schools, and civic organizations such as the Rotary Club.
OZ Lifting’s staff of 25 full-time employees shares a deep appreciation for animals, with many of them being dog owners themselves. “Our team views their pets as family members, so this K9 donation program resonates with everyone at OZ Lifting,” Napieralski said.
Anyone interested in supporting this or other Code Blue K9 programs, should contact OZ Lifting for details.
