Polakowski urges grads to set goals

ONTONAGON - Thirty years ago, Steve Polakowski graduated from the Ontonagon Area High School. On Friday night, he stood before the 31 OAHS graduates as their commencement speaker.

In the interim 30 years, Polakowski earned a bachelor's and master's degree from Michigan Tech University, worked at General Motors, served as a senior research engineer at MTU and, in 1996, founded his own successful company, Great Lakes Sound and Vibrations.

Today, GLSV is a recognized brand in the automotive, aviation, recreational vehicles and military vehicle design. As the company grew it attained numerous patents for vehicle and equipment designs and manufacturing technics.

In addition, GLSV created the EZRYDE snowmobile performance product, which has led to several world championship snowmobile hill climb and racing titles.

Polakowski sold the company in 2014, retired and formed Polakowski Enterprises. He said GLSV's roots and legacy are a result of the upbringing, diverse exposure and opportunities that a small town can provide.

Polakowski cautioned the graduates that "nothing that is good is easy," but urged them to work hard and "never quit."

He urged the graduates to set a goal in five-year increments and work hard to meet that goal. "Your first day on the job, school, or military, write down where you want to be and achieve in five years, and never look back."

In meeting that goal he challenged them never be afraid to ask questions, learn something every day and listen to suggestions whether from other kids, teachers or the garbage man.

Polakowski also cautioned graduates to learn from their mistakes. "Don't get comfortable, challenge yourself."

Several times during the talk he stressed the value of hard work and patience while striving for the goal. He concluded that most of one's time is spent on work and the graduates should "make that work fun. Smile, laugh, enjoy yourself, be patient and work hard."

Polakowski is married to the former Nicole Morin, who was also a member of the Ontonagon class of 1985. The couple have five daughters. He is the son of the late Gary Polakowski Sr. and Karen Polakowski.

Also speaking at the ceremony were valedictorian Cody Tarnowski and salutatorian Alex Ashley. They were introduced by class vice-president Allison Burrows. The introduction of the speaker was made by Abby Polakowski.

Superintendent Jim Bobula presented the class of 2015 for graduation and diplomas were distributed by members of the Ontonagon Area Board of Education.

Music was provided by the high school band under the direction of Ben Mayer.