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