Investing in People, Not Just Positions

When I think about the growth and success of North Valley Precision, the thing that stands out most isn’t the technology we use or the clients we serve—it’s the people. From the beginning, I’ve believed that a company’s culture and long-term success are defined by its team. That’s why promoting from within has been a core part of our strategy.

At NVP, we don’t just hire people to fill roles. We look for individuals with potential, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to excellence. We invest in them, mentor them, and create opportunities for them to take on more responsibility. The goal isn’t just to fill leadership positions—it’s to build leaders who understand our culture, share our values, and can carry the company forward.

Seeing Potential Early

One of the most rewarding parts of promoting from within is spotting potential early. Often, employees show promise long before they have the title or experience to take on formal leadership roles. It’s our job to recognize that potential and give them the tools and support they need to grow.

This might mean providing mentorship, leadership training, or simply giving them opportunities to lead smaller projects. Over time, these experiences build confidence, skill, and a deep understanding of how NVP operates. By the time they’re ready for a larger role, they’re not just prepared—they’re aligned with our vision and culture.

Building Trust Through Experience

Promoting from within also builds trust throughout the organization. When employees see that their hard work, creativity, and dedication can lead to real career advancement, it motivates them to contribute at a higher level. They know that success is recognized and rewarded.

For me, it’s more than just a motivational tool. It’s about creating a company where people feel valued and empowered. Leaders who have grown within NVP know the ins and outs of the company, have built relationships with their teams, and understand our standards for quality and client service. This makes them more effective leaders because they are invested in the success of the company and the people around them.

Real Examples of Growth

I’ve seen firsthand how promoting from within can transform careers and strengthen the company. Several of our current leaders started in entry-level or mid-level roles and worked their way up through dedication, problem-solving, and leadership potential. Watching these individuals take on bigger responsibilities and succeed is one of the most satisfying parts of my job.

It’s not just about titles—it’s about empowering people to make decisions, take ownership, and innovate. When our team members are trusted to lead, they step up in ways that benefit everyone—from the employees they manage to the clients we serve.

Creating a Culture of Leadership

To successfully promote from within, it’s important to foster a culture where leadership isn’t confined to a title. At NVP, we encourage employees at every level to think like leaders, take initiative, and contribute ideas. Whether it’s improving a process, solving a client problem, or mentoring a peer, leadership is something we cultivate continuously.

This culture ensures that when a leadership role opens up, we have multiple candidates ready to step in. It also creates an environment where people feel empowered, accountable, and motivated to do their best work every day.

Lessons Learned as a CEO

Promoting from within hasn’t always been easy. It requires patience, training, and sometimes a leap of faith. But I’ve learned that the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Leaders who grow within the company carry institutional knowledge, understand our values, and have a personal investment in our success.

For me, as Brandon Erickson from Wisconsin, it’s also deeply personal. I believe that helping people reach their potential isn’t just good business—it’s the right thing to do. I’ve seen employees transform into confident leaders who mentor others, contribute innovative ideas, and strengthen our company in ways that are difficult to measure but impossible to ignore.

Looking Ahead

As North Valley Precision continues to grow, promoting from within will remain a cornerstone of our strategy. We’ll continue to invest in our people, create pathways for advancement, and foster a culture of leadership at all levels. By doing so, we’re not just filling positions—we’re building a company that can sustain success for years to come.

The leaders we develop today will shape the future of NVP, ensuring that our clients receive consistent, high-quality service and that our employees continue to thrive in a culture that values growth, innovation, and excellence.

Promoting from within is about more than career advancement—it’s about creating a culture where people feel empowered, trusted, and valued. Watching employees step into leadership roles and succeed has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey as CEO. It’s proof that when you invest in people, the company grows stronger, smarter, and more resilient.

At NVP, we’re building more than a team—we’re building a legacy of leadership, and the best part is that it starts from within. Every day, I’m proud to see our people rise to the challenge, step into new roles, and shape the future of North Valley Precision.