A Behind-The-Scenes Look at Custom Ski Manufacturing with Mike McCabe

What’s the most important part of starting and running a manufacturing business? The finances? The team? The materials? 

Well, this Manufacturing Happy Hour guest has some expert insights, experience and advice, so stay tuned. 

It’s time to hit the slopes for this week’s episode as we invite Mike McCabe, CEO and co-founder of Folsom Custom Skis, to share his story and provide top tips for manufacturers. 

Tune in for tales of Mike’s early days in the industry, the creation of his business, the day-to-day of running a boutique ski manufacturer, what he does for his customers and how Folsom has survived and thrived in a challenging industry. 

Plus, Mike provides a ton of sound business advice! A true must-listen. 

In this episode, find out: 

• Mike’s introduction to the industry 
• Where his interest in skiing began 
• His first steps in launching the business 
• The most important part of starting a manufacturing business 
• A rundown of Folsom’s materials and processes 
• How Mike accounts for his success 
• Top business tips for manufacturers 
• Mike’s initial goals for Folsom Custom Skis 
• The importance of your team in a manufacturing business 
• Advice for college students interested in manufacturing 

Enjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going! 

Tweetable Quotes: 

• “We saw a hole in the market and we’ve stayed really true to what we do to this very day.” 
• “Being lean and nimble is the most important piece, not having huge financial attributes.” 
• “To succeed here, you need somebody that’s really passionate about the sport, passionate about the product, passionate about customer service and passionate about manufacturing.”  

Links & mentions: 

• Folsom Custom Skis, custom building skis engineered specifically for you. Skis can be purchased online or through Folsom’s full-time staff members. 
• Aspen Brewing Company, founded in 2008 with one simple goal – make world-class beer, downstream from nobody. They have two locations in Aspen, both downtown and near the airport. Or, if you’re not in Aspen, you can find their beers throughout Colorado. 

Make sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.