Made Together is our monthly spotlight on the incredible clients we collaborate with, and the custom projects we create to help bring their brands to life. Every project tells a story, and we’re proud to share how these partnerships turn ideas into something tangible and impactful beyond the print.
KEEPING PUGET SOUND COZY
This month, we caught up with Gene Johnson, a trusted Puget Sound service provider for heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical, and your go-to experts for keeping your home cozy. Since 1976, when Gene Johnson Sr. first began serving his neighbors with his plumbing expertise, the company has grown into a well-renowned brand offering comprehensive home services across the Puget Sound—now partnering with BelRed in Mukilteo, CPI in Mount Vernon, and Taylor in Puyallup, all under the Gene Johnson family name.
TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION IN TRADES
What stood out to us was their commitment to nurturing the next generation of tradespeople–those who will one day train the generations after them. It’s a cycle of mentorship and mastery that builds a strong, dedicated team providing essential services we often take for granted.
How do they do it? With state-of-the-art on-site training labs and classes where technicians hone their skills in maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing vital systems. Each “wet lab” features 20 to 30 operable systems–from tankless and tanked furnaces to boilers, water filtration setups, and even a rough-in space to practice around exposed studs for new builds and renovations.
DRIVEN BY COMMUNITY
But what truly defines Gene Johnson’s culture is their heart for community. Jordan Bister, Gene Johnson’s Market Area Administrator, shared her pride in helping launch the company’s Warm Hearts campaign–an initiative that provides families in need with a free furnace or water heater installation, no strings attached. Their goal is simple: to keep families safe and cozy through the winter. This fall, partner brands CPI, BelRed, and Taylor are accepting nominations for three free furnace installations, and Gene Johnson for one free water heater installation.
Another cause close to their hearts is Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Many team members, including Jordan, have personal connections to the cause. Jordan participates in honor of her nana, a breast cancer survivor. Recently, several service vans in their fleet got a bold makeover with pink decals, symbolizing their pledge to donate a
portion of sales to breast cancer research and raise awareness for the cause. Gene Johnson has proudly sponsored and supported Making Strides events across King and Snohomish counties for the past four years, handing out pink-branded totes and other giveaways along the way.
AN IMPACTFUL COLLABORATION
That’s where Screen Printing Northwest comes in. We were honored to help bring these pink totes and matching polos for their technicians and contributors to life. Jordan recalled what she experienced working with us, noting our quick turnaround times and personable service. It’s something our co-owners Taylor Baehm and Jerry Barhanovich deeply believe in: fast and thoughtful responses to inquiries and quotes, a willingness to work within budget, and collaboration that goes beyond a transactional relationship. Custom prints aren’t just products—they carry the soul of your business and share the story of the work you do for your community.
Bringing your custom design ideas to life shouldn’t be stressful or isolating. Jordan shared with us:
“Why I choose Screen Printing Northwest over larger companies like VistaPrint or Custom Ink is because of your willingness to collaborate and get into the nitty gritty of the design to make it more special. I don’t have to upload a design on my own or worry about quality–I know I’ll get great materials and personalized support. Running a business, you need guarantees, and that’s what you guys provide.”
WHAT’S NEXT
So what’s next for Gene Johnson? They’re continuing to focus on authentic and meaningful community engagement. That means more promotional products for events like Making Strides, and fun giveaways for gatherings like the Washington State Fair (you might’ve seen the branded dog bandanas we created together that fairgoers loved).
At Screen Printing Northwest, we believe custom prints and products are more than just tangible handouts—they embody your brand’s spirit and spread awareness of your mission. Our goal at Screen Printing Northwest, always, is to create something you’re proud to share.
If you are local to the Puget Sound area, don’t forget to nominate someone in your life for their Warm Hearts campaign–happening now. Click here to nominate someone you love.
