Built to Last | Episode 4: Growing into the New Building and Succession

How do you prepare a company to thrive long after you’re gone?

In the final episode of Built to Last – The Metalcraft Legacy Series, former CEO Steve Doerfler joins current CEO Kyle Bermel for a conversation about leadership, succession, innovation, and preparing Metalcraft for its next chapter.

After more than 40 years with the company, Steve reflects on the decisions that helped shape Metalcraft—from investing in new technologies and expanding RFID capabilities to developing future leaders, launching new businesses, and creating a culture built on continuous improvement.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Preparing the next generation of leaders Succession planning and leadership transitions
• Building Metalcraft’s current facility
• The creation of ARK Business Systems
• The launch of Inlay Innovation
• Investing in employee development through the University of Metalcraft
• Why innovation and continuous improvement never stop
• Steve’s reflections on retirement and the legacy he hopes to leave behind

More than a conversation about one career, this episode explores what it means to build a company that will continue to grow, innovate, and remain employee owned for generations to come.