McElroy Minute: Meet Carl Riggins

Carl Riggins joined the McElroy Metal team in 2015 and recently assumed the role of Vice President of Operations following the retirement of his predecessor, Mark Brotherton.

Carl joined the McElroy team as an Operations Manager for the Lewisport, Kentucky plant. This transition phase allowed Carl to acclimate to McElroy, and he then moved on to manage the facility in Clinton, Illinois, which offered a new set of challenges and successes. Over the years, he moved into a regional manager role, which took him to other plants like Mauston, Peachtree City, Adelanto, and Bossier City. His most recent transition to Vice President of Operations is an exciting step for both Carl and McElroy Metal.

We recently spoke with Carl about his last 9 years at McElroy Metal, his new role, and his vision for the next chapter.

What does a great day at work look like for you?

One of the most appealing things about operations is that every day is different. Our ultimate goal is customer service, and the challenges I am able to overcome each day have led to the most rewarding part of my job. It might have been a hectic day, but if the customer didn't feel that, we conquered the day!

What would you say is your "specialty" or area of expertise in your job?

The ability to make rapid & confident decisions based on many years of 'growing up' in this industry.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your role at McElroy Metal?

My favorite part of my job is helping people develop into more than even they imagined!

During my time at McElroy, I have worked with teams in Lewsport, Clinton, Mauston, Peachtree City, Adelanto, and Bossier City. All of these plants have great people who are willing to go above & beyond for the company! I'm proud of what we accomplished together.

What's your favorite part of your workday?

I truly enjoy interacting with my fellow co-workers throughout each day. McElroy is employee-owned, and we all feel that vibe.

Who has been your greatest mentor or champion at McElroy Metal?

My greatest mentor has been Mark Brotherton. Mark is the calmest, most even-keeled person I have ever met. I could always go to him with a challenge, and he would provide insight and clarity to every situation. My greatest champion has been Don Jones. Don helped me tremendously when I first came on board; I was having machine issues and was told to call Don. Not only did he help me that day, but he has also helped me many times over the years. He is not just a co-worker; he is my friend.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career, and how did you handle it?

I have had several, but the "COVID years" are certainly in the top three. I look back and wonder how we kept the wheels on the road during that challenging time. It truly is a testament to the caliber of employees McElroy is so lucky to have.

What is the most valuable thing you've learned at McElroy Metal?

While teaching an old dog new tricks is hard, I have learned a great deal from my co-workers at McElroy. From day one, many people have extended both a warm welcome and a helping hand. When you think you know it all, you learn something from someone else.

What do you enjoy most about working at McElroy Metal?

Helping the company grow, I am not only doing my part but rallying other people around a common goal to make us the best metal component supplier in the US.

What is one thing you could not live without at work?

Sarcasm and the ability to laugh. I like to laugh and have fun at the same time we are doing our jobs. Nothing will pull a team together tighter than laughter!

If you could use three words to describe McElroy Metal, what would they be?

Family, Friends, & Fun

Tell us a little bit about your family!

My wife, Vicky, is my world. I'm not quite sure how she puts up with me, but I'm sure thankful she does. She has traveled across this country with me over the past 20 years and never complained, not once. Everything I do, I do for her. I have two wonderful stepsons who I am immensely proud of and, so far, two beautiful grandkids.

What is most important to you?

Family, period.

Where are you the happiest?

I sit on a still lake as the sun starts to come up, with a fishing pole in my hand and my brother-in-law (brother, really) on the other end of the boat. In a close second place is sitting in a freezing hunting blind, waiting for the big buck to pass in front of me.

What is something not many people know about you?

I was an Eagle Scout as a boy, and as a young man, I had a 28" ponytail (I lived in Europe, so it was a thing!)

What is on your "Bucket List"?

To fish for peacock bass on the Amazon River!

What is your overarching goal for your department this year?

High standards & excellence. I don't like to come in 2nd place!

What are your hopes for your department and the company moving forward?

I want to position our company for growth. I want our team to lead the industry in every metric that matters to our customers. When I work my last day, I want to reflect on the people I feel I have helped grow & develop and that our company is stronger than ever for the generations behind me.

I am very excited to have a chance to lead such a great team of highly skilled managers and to support the teams they represent.

We wish Carl every success in this new chapter, and we look forward to many wonderful years with him at McElroy Metal.