A Conversation with Ben Minger, Twin City Plating

 

Ben Minger was 26 years old with little finishing experience when he took out loans and bought Twin City Plating in 2013. But with a willingness to work hard and 15 employees, he now has ISO 9001 certification and has seen sales increase 20 percent since he purchased the operation. A Products Finishing Top Shops recipient and a 40 Under 40 honoree, we caught up with Ben as he was getting ready for his wedding to his fiancée, Carol.

 

PF: What led you to purchase Twin City Plating?

BM: The previous owner was a family friend looking to sell and retire. I was trying a startup-type company in a different industry that was moving much slower than I liked. A friendly email turned into negotiations, and a few months later I owned a
plating shop and a heap of loans.

 

PF: What’s the best piece of advice you were given, either personally or professionally, and who gave it to you?

BM: My old man told me hard work, a positive attitude and a little common sense go a long way.

 

PF: What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

BM: During the summer of ninth grade I worked in a construction materials yard loading trucks and organizing materials. I learned the more organized you keep things the more efficient you can be. 

 

PF: What was your first car, and what is your dream car?

BM: Chevy pickup; I’m not a big dreamer when it comes to cars. 

 

PF: What leadership traits have helped you along the way?

BM: Realizing early on there is always someone who knows a lot more than you in whatever scenario you are in. I’ve learned to find that person quickly and channel their expertise to help us out. 

 

PF: What organization or company, aside from your own, do you most admire?

BM: Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, or any organization that helps children in the world. 

 

PF: Where would we find you on a typical Saturday?

BM: Probably working in the morning, then on a lake or rock climbing or snowboarding with my soon-to-be wife. 

 

PF: Best way to keep a competitive edge?

BM: Have a strong team. Having the right people in the right places will get you the quality and turnaround required to beat your competition. 

 

PF: Personal heroes?

BM: My parents. Anyone who truly enjoys and is passionate about their job. They look like they’re always having fun. 

 

PF:How do you motivate people?

BM: I try to lead less by words and more by my actions. 

 

PF: How do you motivate yourself?

BM: Read about others who have accomplished great things: Edison, Einstein, Washington, Shakespeare, the Wright Brothers, etc. People like that make you see what’s humanly possible. If I could make a positive impact even a fraction of what one of the greats has, I would be happy. That motivates me. 

 

PF: Three greatest passions?

BM: Traveling, snowboarding and problem solving.

 

PF: Most unique office décor?

BM: My wife gave me a mouse pad with a bunch of pictures of us on it and it says, “Don’t work too hard.” 

 

PF: Best business decision?

BM: Buying a plating shop.

 

PF: Worst business decision?

BM: One would argue the same: buying a plating shop. 

 

PF: What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?

BM: Read and listen more, you don’t know anything! 

 

PF: Word that best describes you:

BM: Workaholic