Community, strength and efficiency are the qualities Sperling Industries strives to uphold — and its perseverance in providing valuable service has now been recognized at the provincial level.
Sperling Industries was one of 10 recipients of the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce’s Future Champion Award, which recognizes businesses and individuals committed to social and economic innovation through living, working and building a stronger future in Manitoba.
“Being an employer in Manitoba comes with its own set of challenges, but it’s something we would never change,” said Erin Dunn, quality manager at Sperling Industries. “This is home to us; it’s where we started.”
Founded in 1978 by Russ Nicolajsen, the company later welcomed his brothers Jeff and David to the team. Today, the family-owned steel business provides design, engineering, fabrication and installation services from its shop in Sperling. It employs about 120 people, including members of the second generation of the Nicolajsen family.
“We want to work with our customers to make sure we hit the mark and execute their requests with the utmost quality,” Dunn said.
Sperling Industries is known for tackling a wide variety of projects, thanks to its skilled team and extensive fleet of machinery. From industry-specific equipment such as hog dehairers and honey melt tanks to cranes and lifts, the company self-performs as much of its work as possible.
“Working directly with our community is very important to us. We work hard to maintain our clientele and make sure we’re doing the best we can,” Dunn added.
She said the company is honoured to be recognized by the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, especially given its location in a rural community.
The Carman and Community Chamber of Commerce nominated Sperling Industries for the award, citing its innovation, dedication and community involvement.
“Their growth as a business while maintaining strong local roots makes them a model of what rural entrepreneurship can achieve,” said Jodi Winkler, executive director of the Carman chamber. “Their vision, leadership and investment in people made them an obvious choice for nomination.”
Winkler added the company goes above and beyond in supporting local initiatives and prioritizing long-term success, while providing cutting-edge opportunities.
“Sperling Industries exemplifies what it means to be a future champion — not just in business, but in leadership and vision. Their success is a win for the entire community, and we’re excited to see what they achieve next.”
Dunn celebrated the award on May 12 with family members and colleagues. The team visited Government House, attended a luncheon with Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville, and wrapped up the day at the award ceremony and reception at Club Regent Event Centre.
She said celebrating with family was especially meaningful, as the next generation of Nicolajsens is stepping into operational roles while the founding generation nears retirement.
As Sperling Industries looks to the future, the company is nearing completion of a 13,800-square-foot expansion to its main building. The new space will improve workflow efficiency and accommodate an Amada Ensis RI — a machine that allows for flatbed laser cutting and integrated tube and profile processing.
“We will try to continue supporting the community however we can,” added Dunn. “We are a team here at Sperling, and our goal is to continually provide the best value we possibly can through both our products and services.”
