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Grinding Toward Success: How Meyer Engineered Materials Gained a Competitive Edge

Company Profile

Meyer Engineered Materials (formerly Grind-All) in Kent provides precision grinding services and finishes to the aerospace and automotive industry and more. It has been in business since 1979. However, some of its business came to a grinding halt when the pandemic hit. The seven-employee operation then looked to Impact Washington to assist with gaining AS9100D certification to make the company stronger and more competitive than ever.

“Your expertise and dedication have been instrumental in our success, and we are incredibly thankful for your partnership every step of the way,” said MEM Owner and President Darcy Meyer, about Impact Washington. “Your assistance has not only enabled us to achieve this important milestone but has also had a significant impact on our business in several key areas.”

Situation

One of the owners of MEM contacted Impact Washington via its website after hearing an advertisement on the radio. The owner explained that the company’s sales and profits were drastically affected by the pandemic. One of MEM’s main clients then moved its production facility to Mexico, making matters more difficult for the company. MEM had implemented a Quality Management System under AS9100 previously, but it needed to be updated to the current standards to be the most competitive and gain new clients.

Solution

Impact Washington started with a business assessment that was funded by a Safe Start grant, and it was clear their Quality Management System needed to be updated under AS9100D. Impact Washington’s Miguel Moreno, Account Executive for Small & Rural, prepared an application for the Job Skills Program grant to help the company update its system. The grant was awarded, and an instructor, Kenneth Ives, helped the team at MEM in the creation, updates, and implementations they needed to meet AS9100D standards. The team passed the Certification Audit and became AS9100D registered.

Results

  • Increased sales growth
  • More than 50% growth in new customers since January 2024
  • Greater job creation and retention
  • Cost savings, thanks to grants to help pay for upgrading the QMS system
  • Added one new position to the team
  • The team is more confident in the future and believes it has a competitive edge thanks to the certification and education.

“The value derived from this investment, both in monetary and skill development terms, has been invaluable to our organization's growth and success.  … Obtaining the AS9100D certification has been a beacon of hope amidst uncertainty. It has not only provided us with a competitive edge but has also played a crucial role in helping us navigate these turbulent times and ensure the sustainability of our business. We are immensely grateful for the lifeline this certification has provided, enabling us to not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity.” 

-- Darcy Meyer, Meyer Engineered Materials Owner and President