Lessons in Leadership and Growth from DC Metal.
On May 8th, members of the Daviess County CEO Cohort had the opportunity to travel along Highway 50 for an engaging visit and tour of DC Metal. They were warmly welcomed by Kenneth Swarzentruber Jr. and Colin Swarzentruber, who offered valuable insights into the company’s impressive 41-year journey of growth and success—now employing over 125 team members.
Kenneth and Colin shared stories about DC Metal’s humble beginnings, underscoring the importance of perseverance, hard work, and maintaining a strong work ethic. Emphasizing the value of asking questions to fully understand operations and pointed out how a strong reputation can be one of the most powerful tools in business—often serving as a better selling point than any marketing strategy.
When discussing competition, they offered a refreshing perspective, seeing it as a driver of innovation rather than a threat. Highlighting the lasting impact of word-of-mouth marketing, noting that while advertising has its role, the trust built through customer recommendations remains unmatched.
One of the most impactful messages of the day was the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. Kenneth encouraged the cohort to remain curious, welcome change, and foster a culture of ongoing education and growth within their future businesses. “Grow organically. Remember, quality is more valuable than being cheap. Always be building new connections—people are willing to share,” he advised.
The visit concluded with sincere thanks to Kenneth and Colin for their generosity, wisdom, and hospitality. Their openness and willingness to mentor reflect the collaborative spirit and supportive business community at the heart of the Daviess County CEO experience.