In manufacturing leadership, the difference between being in power and choosing to empower can define the future of your company. Many shop owners and managers pride themselves on being leaders who inspire their people, but true leadership isn’t measured by what you say about yourself.
The question isn’t, “Do you see yourself as empowering?” but rather, “Do your employees feel empowered?” The answer lies in your actions, not just your intent.
The Evolution of Leadership in Today’s Machine Shop
In the initial days of starting a CNC machine shop, the quality of leadership is often dependent on the founder’s direct involvement. Decisions, problem-solving, and even machining often run through a single person. This “in power” style is sometimes necessary for survival early on in a company’s history.
But as companies expand, their needs change. You’re no longer the sole touchpoint for solving problems. And if you remain the single source of truth, your people can’t grow, and neither can your shop.
This is where manufacturing leadership requires a shift: from controlling every outcome to empowering teams to contribute and innovate.
“In Power” vs. “Empower”
The pitfalls of “in power” leadership
Leaders who operate only “in power” often hold on to decision-making because they equate their value with being indispensable. But an unempowered workforce lives in fear of making mistakes and becomes hesitant to take risks. That leads to turnover, stagnation, and a culture of working for the boss rather than working for the business.
As the saying goes, people don’t quit bad jobs, they quit bad bosses. Machine shop management that relies solely on authority risks losing its most talented people.
The strength of empowering leadership
Empowered employees take ownership of their work. They know their leaders trust them, and in turn, they invest in the company’s success. This approach improves morale and builds loyalty among your valued team members.
From our perspective here at NTMA, the most successful shops are those where leaders celebrate team achievements rather than their own. Empowerment doesn’t mean stepping away; it means shifting focus from personal recognition to collective success.
Building Empowerment into Shop Culture
If you ever find yourself in more of an “in power” role, it’s not too late to adjust your approach to serve as a more “empowering” leader. Here are some places to start:
Make safety a top priority (if it isn’t already!)
Machining safety is a baseline requirement in any empowered machine shop. When employees fear getting injured on the job or when an easily avoidable safety issue occurs in your shop due to poor maintenance or a lack of training, workplace morale plummets. It’s up to you as a leader to ensure your workforce feels comfortable and secure, so they can put their best foot forward without hesitation.
Invest in training opportunities
What better way to empower your workforce than by presenting them with the tools they need to grow in their roles? It’s always the right time to invest in training opportunities for your people, not only so they can do their jobs better than ever before, but to ensure they are satisfied with their growth potential within your company.
Be sure to look into courses and training offered by your machine suppliers and local community colleges that can level up your people’s skills. Additionally, NTMA-U offers critical education pathways for those looking to develop their careers.
What’s best for the company > what’s best for its leader
Of course, the company’s success directly impacts its leaders. But the key to a truly empowered workplace is when its people act out of the best interest of the company, rather than just bending over backwards to please its leader. Always remind your people what strategic decisions mean for the betterment of the business.
Essentially, any iteration of “because I said so” is at the top of the list of what NOT to do to create a culture of empowerment.
Evolve with your company
Strong leadership isn’t static. It evolves as your business does. The same way you invest in new equipment or improve processes, you must also evolve as a leader. Modern leadership means listening, adapting, and growing alongside your workforce.
Empower Your People, Empower Your Shop
There’s no doubt that the manufacturing sector is facing changes and challenges, from skills gaps to Industry 4.0 transformations, but empowered leaders are positioned to thrive. By shifting from “in power” to “empower,” you create a culture where people want to grow and succeed together.
For shop owners wondering where to start, we suggest leaning into your peer groups. Attend NTMA events like our ENGAGE and Emerging Leaders conferences, look into NTMA’s executive groups, and learn from others who have walked this path before. Leadership is not a solo journey, and you don’t have to tough it out alone.
Empower your people, and you’ll empower the future of your shop.