FBA Fall Forum 2022: Karen Norheim & American Crane

                                     
         Providing Support & Resources to Family & Closely Held Businesses 
                                         
                                      Fall Forum 2022

The Viking & The Gardener: A Manufacturing Cultural Transformation 

Karen Norheim is passionate about all things manufacturing. As the 2nd generation coming into the leadership role for her family's company, American Crane & Equipment Corporation, Norheim has sought to solidify the "Founder's Legacy" while putting her own stamp on the company culture. Norheim's company's journey to their mantra "GRIT Matters: Perseverance, Heart & Integrity" has been the reboot of their vision, mission and values. Her role, as she puts it, is that of the gardener as she leads the successful operations of American Crane, a recognized leader in the design and manufacture of cranes, hoists and other material handling equipment.


ABOUT KAREN NORHEIM
The work that Karen Norheim has accomplished by mentoring others and promoting the industry has made her a leader in the manufacturing industry in Berks County and beyond. She is a true spokesperson for the great jobs and quality of life that the industry can provide, and she is also a dynamic force when it comes to the immense technology and digital innovations occurring in manufacturing at a rapid rate. Norheim is an advocate for encouraging young people to consider a career in manufacturing - particularly women. She is a frequent speaker and panelist at local schools and professional organizations discussing manufacturing, company culture, and leadership.

In addition to her many roles within the company, Norheim also sits on the boards of many industry-leading organizations. She plays a pivotal role in the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance's Next Gen Advanced Manufacturing Industry Partnership. Her leadership within this group as an appointed "Champion" has strongly supported the identification of common areas for regional growth, talent development, and workforce pipeline solutions that can be addressed with one voice.

Norheim is the current President of the Crane Manufacturers Association of America, Inc. (CMAA), MHI Round­table Member, and a past Chairperson for the National Board of Women in Manufacturing (WiM). She has received many awards and nominations for her excellence in leadership and manufacturing, including: 2019 Thomasnet Industry Champion, 2020 Manufacturing Leadership Award, 2020 YWCA Tribute to Women of Excellence Nominee, 2020 STEP Ahead Awards Honoree, and the 2020 Vistage Impact Award Finalist.