STEP Award Winners

Susan Adams
Director Human Resources and Environmental & Safety
Able Manufacturing & Assembly, LLC
Joplin, MO

“Manufacturing careers offer a fulfilling life’s work, regardless of a person’s passions.  What other business sector can provide opportunities to such a broad range of interests and educational backgrounds?  I would recommend a manufacturing career to any individual who enjoys working in a collaborative, creative environment, focusing on continuous improvement of people and processes.”

Susan directs Human Resources and Environmental & Safety while maintaining her role as an executive staff member.  She directs all phases of HR, company safety and environmental compliance.
 
Her role in training existing and new employees supported significant growth and diversity for the company.  Susan’s contributions were crucial to the change and reinvention necessary for the company’s success.

Through her leadership, Able Manufacturing received OSHA’s SHARP status, was recognized by Missouri Governor Jay Nixon for pro-actively hiring veterans, and received Missouri’s 2012 “Breaking Traditions” Employer of the Year Award. 

She is past Chair of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and the Tristate Healthcare Coalition.  Susan currently serves on the Industrial Management Council, The SW Missouri Workforce Investment Board, the Mercy Hospital Foundation Board, Joplin Schools Bright Ideas committee and advisory boards for Franklin Technical Center, Crowder College and Missouri Southern State University.