Manzi Metals honored
When Barbara Manzi attended the recent Chamber of Commerce breakfast, she had no idea she would be accepting an award.
The dynamic, goal-driven entrepreneur is no stranger to recognition. In fact, her company Manzi Metals Inc. has been recognized numerous times by various high-profile organizations for various achievements.
But she was taken off guard when the Hernando County United Way acknowledged her and her business practices with the “Staying STRONG” award, recognizing businesses that remained intact and thriving in a diminished economy.
Staying STRONG translates into “Supporting Transformations Reflective ON Growth.” The framed award read: “Thank you for maintaining a solid foundation throughout the economic downturn. The United Way is proud of our corporate partners and local businesses for supporting Financial Stability.”
“I’ve gotten a lot of awards through the years,” she said, eyes pooling slightly with emotion. “This one really meant something to me.”
Manzi explained that the award was given to a small business that not only thrived during the recession but also managed to keep her employees employed.
“From 1989 to 2012, how prestigious of an award is this to receive it from your own peers,” she said. “It’s just absolutely wonderful.”
In a state-of-the-art building located at the Hernando County Airport Industrial Park, Manzi Metals has been thriving for 23 years.
She was working for another metal distribution company and was attending the Partners in Quality Award ceremony when the inspiration hit. She was one of three women at the ceremony. “It was odd because I knew there were other women doing what I was doing behind the scenes,” Manzi said. That realization elevated her motivation and she partnered with her son to open her business which became Manzi Metals in 1993.
Manzi Metals supplies raw materials in various shapes and sizes to companies like Rolls Royce, the Department of Defense and other prime companies within the aerospace and energy industry.
Therefore their focus on running a “good quality system” is directly linked to confidential programs that rely on safety.
“Everything that goes through our company is about saving lives,” Manzi said.
The foundation beneath her company is packed with integrity, work ethic and quality service, accomplished through a team of professionals and led by a woman of deep-rooted character.
The design of the building and its sales offices were the idea of Manzi who understood the importance of having her hand in everything to maintain quality control. From her comfortable office in the center of the building, it is plain to see she is hands-on.
“That way I know exactly what is going on at all times,” she said.
She also understands the concept of keeping her team comfortable and allowing them to know they are valued and appreciated. “I designed their work stations with the exact same desk as mine.”
Her team, which she handpicked from the best available, has as much to do with her success as her meticulous detailed focus on her company, she said.
They include Linda Hoffer, general manager/quality manager with a background in aerospace, petroleum and energy; Richard Ernst, quality assurance manager, retired rocket scientist; Eric Backer, rep. specializing in aerospace; Monty Caraballo, a 20-year Navy veteran who specialized in DOD contracting aerospace; Dottie White, sales representative; Angie Chancalay, accounting manager; and Donna Cline, Barbara’s personal assistant.
A trail of success is documented in a well-decorated “hall of fame” inside the building. Numerous plaques, letters and certificates line the walls. The shelves are adorned with statues and other tabletop awards, recognitions preserved from several influential organizations for the work she has done as a prominent minority female business owner.
“It’s all about (the team),” she said. “They pay attention to detail. That’s quality! Making it happen. Our customers are very satisfied.”
