"This is truly a company built by entrepreneurs." - Lori Poorman, Director of Human Resources, Agri-Fab

In 1975, just as the plant where they were working sold, 6 men decided to start their own company, "built upon integrity and character". And solid lawn and garden products.

Agri-Fab in Sullivan values community, relationships, faith and innovation. Even with over 300 employees, Agri-Fab tries to create a family atmosphere focused on growth and development - not just for the company, but also for its people. In fact, the company's core purpose is "To lend a helping hand".

"We want to keep out local talent local," Poorman says. That's why Agri-Fab has a tuition reimbursement program for its employees, holds auctions each year benefiting charity, and provided extra support during Covid for vendors, employees, customers and the community.

Agri-Fab also actively seeks out and hires high school students as an investment in the community and the company's future. Some of those students stay on or return to Agri-Fab, like Hilary Conner, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, who has been at Agri-Fab for 36 years.

"Agri-Fab has allowed me a lot of flexibility. It's a company that is very open to employee feedback," Conner says.

Greg Dickens, Manager Manufacturing Engineering, has also been at Agri-Fab for over 30 years, after deciding college wasn't for him. He worked from assembly lines up to supervisory positions.

Both Conner and Dickens shared a few lessons they have learned on the job.

"Be a great listener," Conner says. "Hear and understand what the person across the table is saying."

Dickens stressed cost control and service as common themes among CEOs and entrepreneurial podcasts.