Each month, the PMA Member Spotlight features an outstanding member sharing his/her insights into the latest industry trends and technologies.

PMA is pleased to highlight Karla Aaron, president of Hialeah Metal Spinning, Inc. (HMS), Hialeah, FL. Established in 1957, HMS is a woman-owned company specializing in metal spinning and deep drawing. The company has distinguished itself from other metalformers by combining the benefits of spinning and deep drawing to create a competitive advantage for its customers. This combination allows HMS to offer the most cost-effective solution for each application, while ensuring superior quality.

Read about Karla’s thoughts on technology challenges facing metalformers, finding skilled workers, what’s on her wish list for her facility this year and more!

Q: Which job classifications are the most challenging to find skilled workers?
A: Finding what I call “talent” is always a challenge. This is especially true today given the double whammy of increased demand for talent combined with the reduced labor pool. I define “talent” as someone who can look at a print, know how to make the part (including tool design) and oversee the production. This individual has hands-on experience, in-depth metalforming knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Q: What is the biggest technology challenge metalformers face today?
A: Keeping ahead of the curve – knowing what’s happening now, knowing what’s coming up, knowing how to position your company to take advantage of the change.

Q: What is on your wish list for your shop in 2015 (i.e., a new piece of equipment)?
A: I’d love a 5 axis machining center; a Faro arm with laser checking; a triple action deep draw press, and more!

Q: What is the best conference or seminar you or your employees attended in the past year and why?
A: I attended PMA’s Executive Development Academy in January. This was a unique gathering of industry professionals, all committed to moving their companies forward. The combination of educational, inspirational and thought-provoking sessions along with open conversations among colleagues was unparalleled. This is a great event. (And, no, PMA did not ask me to make a plug!)

Q: What conference topic (related to the metalforming/manufacturing industry) would you be most interested in attending?
A: Anything that keeps us ahead of the curve: 3D printing, simulation software, etc.

Q: Minivan, SUV or sedan?
A: If I’m driving in town, I’ll take an SUV so that I can see out. (I’m vertically challenged.) If I’m driving through the countryside, I’d love a slick, fast, two-seater convertible with a manual shift.

Q: What are the top three songs on your play list right now?
A: I’m enjoying pop country right now: Downtown by Lady Antebellum; Mean to Me by Brett Eldridge; Whiskey on My Breath by Love and Theft.