WASHINGTON - Dave McFarlane, president of McFarlane Sheet Metal
of Grand Forks, N.D., has been named second runner-up at the U.S. Small
Business Administration’s (SBA’s) National Small Business Persons of the Year
ceremonies.
McFarlane first worked part-time at the family-owned McFarlane
Sheet Metal while still in high school, sweeping up and offering an extra hand
on small projects. He later joined the 20-year-old company full time in 1979,
and bought the company when his father retired two years later.
McFarlane's chemical engineering background enabled the firm to
pursue HVAC applications requiring specialized engineering techniques,
computerized technology, specialty metals and complex building ventilation
systems. The company's experience also allowed it to increase sales in repair
and rehabilitation of complex buildings. Now, as the company has evolved beyond
being a purely local contractor, its typical projects range up to more than
$1.5 million, and annual sales have increased from $220,000 to more than $7
million.
The national small business awards are a highlight of SBA Small
Business Week, the agency's annual celebration honoring the nation's leading
small business entrepreneurs.
Publication date:04/30/2007
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