An introvert, Jason Alford’s love of books and movie quotes has helped him break down social barriers and motivate others.

Beginning his career in finance, Jason developed a knack for tying manufacturing processes together, and is now Vice President, Integrated Supply Chain for Textron Specialized Vehicles. His high-level knowledge of the organization, and his granular view of business processes, gives him a unique perspective of the company.

But where Jason excels is his understanding of people. Described as an ‘observer and thinker’, Jason teaches others to listen and understand. “He is in tune with our needs and challenges us to think smarter, work differently, and be on the cutting edge,” one employee said.

“He is one of the most inspirational people within Textron,” his team member said of Jason, who has been wheelchair-bound since a motorcycle accident only days into his Textron career. Overcoming his personal circumstances fed Jason’s desire to help others, leading him to partner with the Richmond County School System to develop a program to give at-risk high school students a pathway to learn manufacturing while earning their diploma.

“Jason is sarcastic and jokes around, but holds his team to a very high standard. He is well-respected and is sought after from all levels of the organization for his sound business advice.”

“I help organize the world’s largest multicultural beauty show, generating $30 million in revenue for Atlanta each year,” said James Bronner, senior VP of trade show operations for Bronner Bros, a manufacturer of multicultural beauty products.

The youngest of six boys, after graduating from Georgia Tech, James followed in his brothers’ footsteps and entered the family business. One team member said, “James is innovative, forward-thinking and decisive, taking risks to implement new technology and processes to improve the Bronner Bros. operations.”

James throws himself into everything he does. Outside of his daily responsibilities at Bronner Bros., James is a serial entrepreneur, starting a business with his brother, manufacturing and distributing health food products to more than 15,000 stores nationwide.

In addition, he is an ordained minister and the youth pastor at the Ark of Salvation. “I have always believed in motivating and leading kids in the right direction. My wife and I have seven kids and have recently coauthored a book about our experiences,” James said.

His team member commended James by saying, “He has an amazing work ethic, and a quiet confidence that puts others at ease, while motivating his employees to operate with a spirit of excellence.”

Greg Hultquist has always been focused. From a young age he would accompany his dad to work at a manufacturing plant during his summers. After college, he starting working at that same plant, gaining experience on how systems and people work together to manufacture a product.

“I’ve worked in manufacturing a long-time and I’ve been exposed to different cultures and different people. I’ve even lived in four different states during my career,” Greg said.

For the past 12 years Greg has worked at YKK AP America, Inc. in Dublin, Georgia, as the Vice President of Manufacturing Operations. Although he manages a 1 million square foot facility, a team member said, “Greg makes it a point to personally know everyone on the plant floor and build a positive culture of engagement.”

Another team member said, “Greg has a tireless approach to his enormous responsibilities and takes that same energy and commitment to his personal life.”

An avid P90X® user, Greg maintains a six-day a week regiment, stating, “I am never too old to challenge myself – both personally and professionally. Pushing myself to the limits allows me to continue to grow.”

“We have a rule at our house. If you say Kia, you get a kiss,” said Corinne Hodges, Senior Manager, Head of Department Public Relations for Kia Motors. As a young girl, Corinne worked for her family’s trucking company, expediting the freight needs of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and their suppliers. Corinne said, “When I got the job offer from Kia, it was like I was getting back to my roots.”

“I’ve loved getting my hands in so many things over the past seven years. One of the first lessons I learned at Kia was to eliminate ‘can’t’ from my vocabulary.” She continued, “From that, I’ve realized my limitless potential and the capabilities of our team”.

She’s taken that to heart and keeps pushing herself, serving as a board member for THINC College and Career Academy, helping to educate elementary and middle school students on STEM programs to create a future qualified workforce.

One of her team members said, “Corrine has two sides – the side the community knows as the serious spokeswoman for Kia, and the one in the office – laid back, but always willing to roll her sleeves up and assist her team in anything.”

Born into manufacturing and raised in the halls of the plant, Clarke Andrew has seen it all. From the plant to the sales office and every aspect in-between.

“Not only did Clarke Andrew grow up in manufacturing, but he has the desire to understand the industry. That sets him apart as a leader,” one of his team members said.

The manufacturing industry has shaped him tremendously in regards to his personal life and experiences. Being the fourth generation of the Bentley family-owned corporation has allowed him to personally know many long-time employees.

“His name is on every product shipped and he ensures the product quality is the highest standard,” another colleague said.

When a long-time employee was diagnosed with ALS, a picnic was thrown in his honor to raise awareness and funds to help fight this disease. The guest of honor cheered as Clarke and everyone were doused with ice cold water for the ALS ice bucket challenge. Several thousand dollars were raised in his name, everyone left with a full stomach, but most importantly a company was united under unfortunate circumstances with the guest of honor there to witness it all.