John Mislai
When you think about the backbone of Soft Touch Furniture, the mill shop is where so much of the work begins, and where precision matters most. That’s why John Mislai, our Mill Shop Supervisor, plays such a critical role in what we do.
From planning and overseeing cuts to making sure raw materials are shaped into the building blocks of our booths and furniture, John ensures the shop runs smoothly and efficiently. Every finished piece our customers see begins with his team’s accuracy and attention to detail.
John has been with Soft Touch for more than 17 years, steadily guiding the mill shop and keeping production on schedule. His ability to visualize the end result before production begins really sets him apart - he can often “see” a product in three dimensions in his head before the first piece of wood is ever cut! That unique skill allows him to streamline work, avoid errors, and keep projects moving from raw lumber to finished furniture with confidence.
Before joining Soft Touch, John served four years in the U.S. Navy, an experience that instilled discipline, leadership, and a commitment to doing things right the first time. He later worked with Quality Seating Co. and Gasser Chair, gaining valuable knowledge of furniture manufacturing and production that he brought with him to Soft Touch. Those years of experience combine to give him a steady hand and deep insight into both process and product.
Customers may not often interact directly with John, but his impact is felt on every piece of furniture we deliver. From restaurants and hotels to lounges and corporate spaces, the reliability of our builds begins with John’s precision.
Away from the shop, John is happiest outdoors or in the kitchen. He enjoys paddleboarding, cooking, and spending time with his wife, whether that’s traveling to wineries together or simply relaxing at the beach on Lake Erie.