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| USGlass Magazine Recognizes ASI Limited President Ken Smith |
Please tell us a little about your experience in the glass industry: I am president of ASI, Limited which was started in Indianapolis in 1989 after moving from Louisville, Ky. The glass industry has been my life. Currently our contract business is in a major growth stage that finds us in many markets across the United States. Growing up in this industry, I have done almost every job. I have witnessed many changes over the years but none quite as aggressive in the building facades over the past 3-5 years. There is more excitement and opportunity in building façades than anytime in my 30 + years in the business. Our sales and marketing of custom unitized curtain wall business also has been accelerated this year through a joint venture with PGT, Industries of Venice, FL. What was your first job (in the glass industry specifically or in general)? I started working for my father’s (Walt Smith) business (Smith Glass) in Louisville, KY in 1975. I started out as an apprentice glazier. Some of my fondest memories are drawn from the early years when I worked as a craftsman in the field. The camaraderie and personal feeling of accomplishment after a tough job was completed is something I have never have forgotten. What are some of your hobbies?-I enjoy watching most any sports on TV or in person. I guess it is just the competition. I also jointly own a Nascar Craftsman Truck Series race team that activates our motorsports marketing program at ASI, Limited. It is a perfect mix of business and pleasure. My wife (Cheryl) has made me a better person as well by making take time away from the business traveling and to explore our country. Who are your heroes?-The (2) people I looked up to most have been my parents, Walter and now deceased Frances Smith. They started a business in 1962 and raised a family of 8. Through my formidable years I witnessed hard work and sacrifice, yet never compromising morals and the needed support and guidance. Some of the core basics I practice today were taught in the early days. The never give up mentality I have was garnered many years ago by two inspirational people. Thanks Mom and Dad. What is the number one business challenge that you face? Maintaining profit margins on our growing backlog of complicated projects. Our management team is constantly developing internal controls and systems that will stream timely and vital information. If we want to continue to grow our business we must expeditiously grow a talented staff. This staff will be needed to deliver successful results. The Bank and Bonding company’s underwriters are our Wall Street. We must prove to these partners that we can bid, forecast and deliver estimated profits. What is one of your industry fears?-Talent and training. The industry is growing at a faster pace than the current infrastructure can support. More complicated system are being demanded by designers and engineers. As an industry we need more field apprentice training with current design parameters and more industry specific project management. We as a company we spend significant dollars on training and recruitment to satisfy our growing demand. Famous ex-Washington Redskin coach George Allen once said “The Future is now”. I believe this and we as industry must continue to find ways to allow this growth. If capacity is exceeded, the design groups will be forced to alter the use of our products. What is one personal challenge that you face? –Balance my work and personal life. I tend to be a workaholic, which only comes natural doing something I enjoy as much as I do this industry. As the company has grown, I find ways to ratchet my hours and workload. This is a work in progress. What is one thing about you your colleagues in the industry would be surprised to know?-About (10) years ago I traveled the Midwest racing professionally in open wheel formula cars and shifter karts. A few close calls made me rethink this competitive side and influenced my decision to enter the ownership side. It does not offer the same rush, but not the risk either. |
