SBA Tour Spotlights Eagle Metalcraft’s Remarkable Growth
Eagle Metalcraft’s Impressive Evolution Recognized During a Special SBA Visit, Highlighting Advancements in Technology and Safety
Eagle Metalcraft recently welcomed representatives from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to tour its facilities. The visit celebrated Eagle Metalcraft’s success as one of the most dynamic small businesses in the region, thanks to the ongoing support from the SBA and other organizations over the past four years.
Among the SBA attendees were Rob Yanuzzi and Ray Milano representing the national office, as well as Dan Rickman, Grace Conners, and Bob Pace representing the local SBA branch. The team highlighted Eagle Metalcraft’s transformation from a stagnant business to a thriving enterprise, employing over 30 people—more than double its size just a few years ago.
Michael Bower, owner of Eagle Metalcraft and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support that has enabled this growth. “When I first started my journey to becoming a business owner, I didn’t know all the help that was out there to help me succeed,” Michael said. “Today, we’re not only a success story; we’re an example of what’s possible with the right support.”
We owe a significant part of our success to the SBA and other supporting organizations, and we are deeply grateful for their continued assistance.
A Tour of Transformation
The tour showcased Eagle Metalcraft’s recent capital investments in automation and modern equipment, amounting to $1.5 million. The facility now features more automated machines, lights-out technology, and the company’s latest acquisition—a state-of-the-art welding cobot that has dramatically increased productivity. Michael demonstrated the welding cobot’s capabilities, noting that tasks that previously took five minutes to complete are now accomplished in just 35 seconds.
Ray Milano, an SBA national representative, praised Eagle Metalcraft’s forward-thinking approach. “It’s nice to see you growing beyond the business’s existing capabilities, not just working in the business but on the business,” Milano said. “And you have the ecosystem of support.”
The tour also underscored Eagle Metalcraft’s unwavering commitment to safety and efficiency, ensuring that every aspect of its operations is conducted with the utmost care and precision.
“We had to change the culture that had been in place for 70 years,” Michael explained. Under his leadership, Eagle Metalcraft has achieved a top-level safety certification involving a comprehensive audit of every aspect of its operations, from machinery to waste management. The result is a cleaner, greener, and more efficient facility ready for future growth.
Looking to the Future
Eagle Metalcraft is on the path to further expansion. With its new certifications, the company is preparing to compete for federal contracts, moving beyond its traditional commercial clientele in the Northeast.
“It’s been quite a transition from four years ago,” Michael reflected. “We’ve made the floor more efficient and invested in new equipment.”
As part of its growth strategy, Eagle Metalcraft has embraced automation and workforce development, focusing on training new employees in programming skills. This initiative is attracting a new generation of workers interested in advanced manufacturing techniques while longtime employees continue to lend their expertise in traditional craftsmanship.
The company recently acquired a small tract of land that will allow for further expansion. Michael’s persistence over the past four years paid off when he finally secured the property, enabling Eagle Metalcraft to extend its footprint to a prominent intersection near Thompson Road and Burnet Avenue.
Support from a Strong Network and a Commitment to Growth
Michael credits much of Eagle Metalcraft’s success to the guidance and support provided by various organizations, including SBA, Bowers CPAs & Advisors, and the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF). Through the IVMF’s Community Navigator Pilot Program, Michael connected with legal, financial, and educational resources tailored to veteran entrepreneurs.
Recognized as the 2023 Veteran Small Business of the Year by the SBA’s Upstate New York district, Eagle Metalcraft has become a shining example of the entrepreneurial spirit in Central New York. Michael’s leadership, informed by his military background and his determination to keep manufacturing thriving in the U.S., has led to significant growth and new opportunities for the company.
As Eagle Metalcraft looks ahead, Michael remains committed to fostering a culture of growth, innovation, and community support. “We’re going to continue to grow, so we need the foundation in place,” he said. “And now we have it.”
With the foundation solidly in place, Eagle Metalcraft’s future looks bright. Our company is not only a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance but also a model of how community support and strategic partnerships can drive success.
About Eagle Metalcraft
Eagle Metalcraft employs a mix of team members, from employees who have been with the company for decades to new faces eager to continue the company’s transition into the digital age. As the premier sheet metal fabricator, Eagle Metalcraft maintains an “old world craftsmanship” using state-of-the-art capital equipment to improve quality and productivity.
Experience the difference with Eagle Metalcraft – where precision meets excellence. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service, ensuring your needs are always met. We look forward to teaming up with you. Contact us today!