Built for success: Managing fab shop culture with Nora Harding of SPM

Nora Harding, Executive VP at Special Products and Manufacturing (SPM), joins FMA President/CEO Ed Youdell on the Ed Talks podcast.

SPM is a 62-year-old manufacturing company with three facilities in Texas. They were named The Fabricator's 2025 Industry Award winner and appear on the FAB 40 list.

Harding talks about SPM's strong company culture centered around their "BUILT" principles (Best people, Urgency, Integrity, Learning, Teamwork), which have helped foster an engaged and empowered workforce.

She also talks about how the company places a strong emphasis on community involvement through programs like "Built to Serve" and "Special Wish", which provide support and resources to their employees and local community. SPM also actively engages with local schools and technical centers to promote manufacturing careers and provide educational opportunities.

Haring discusses the company's use of lean practices, automation, and commitment to continuous improvement have helped them attract and retain top talent while improving productivity and efficiency.

This episode was sponsored by AMADA America.

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