E-41: Catching Up with Ketchie

Concord, NC manufacturer is making waves in the advanced manufacturing world.

Have you ever wondered how complex machinery and equipment are built with such precision? The answer lies in the manufacturing of high precision parts. These parts are crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of various industries, from aerospace to medical equipment.

Ketchie Inc., a Concord, North Carolina full-service precision CNC machine shop, has grown since its formation in 1947 from a textile job shop serving the local mills to a woman-owned, third-generation, ISO-certified corporation operating advanced CNC equipment. The company offers supply solutions to government and commercial customers in various industries, including rail, agriculture, textile, heavy machinery, industrial equipment and many specialized OEMs.

In this episode of Clocking In, Phil sits down with the president and owner of Ketchie, Courtney Silver. Courtney is committed to ensuring the continuation of Ketchie’s legacy. In 2015, Ketchie, Inc. received national recognition as a Certified Woman Owned and Operated Business Enterprise under Courtney’s leadership and was positioned to grow with capital investments in new equipment and technology. In January 2023, Silver was chosen to chair the National Association of Manufacturers’ Small and Medium Manufacturing Group.

Phil and Courtney discuss Ketchie’s evolution, the company’s innovative mentorship program and more.

LINKS

NCMEP

Ketchie Inc.

ABOUT Phil Mintz

Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Courtney Silver

Courtney Silver is the president and owner of Ketchie. In 2015, Ketchie, Inc. received national recognition as a Certified Woman Owned and Operated Business Enterprise under Courtney’s leadership and was positioned to grow with capital investments in new equipment and technology. In January 2023, Silver was chosen to chair the National Association of Manufacturers’ Small and Medium Manufacturing Group. Courtney graduated from Michigan State University with a B.S. in supply chain management.