Manufacturing: HOWARD BROADFOOT

Broadfoot, who joined Electro-Mechanical in 2009, was promoted from chief operating officer to CEO in June 2021 after the retirement of company founder Russell Leonard, who remains on the company’s board.

Founded in 1958 as Electric Motor Repair and Sales, Electro-Mechanical manufactures medium voltage electric equipment, primarily switchgears, transformers and custom systems that serve as critical components for utility and industrial power infrastructure. The company’s products are sold to electrical utilities, renewable energy generators, mining operators, and general industrial users of power.

Electro-Mechanical’s products, which are marketed under the Federal Pacific and Line Power brands, were family-owned for more than 60 years. In November 2021, the company was purchased by Graycliff Partners LP, a private equity fund, for an undisclosed amount.

Broadfoot holds an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in industrial management from the University of North Alabama. He started his career at The Boeing Co. and previously held executive positions at Thomas & Betts and Newell Rubbermaid. He also served as North American plant manager for German car parts manufacturer ZF Friedrichshafen AG.