Flexware Innovation

Greg Stevens, a 2006 Industrial Engineering Purdue graduate, is well on his way to impact the Manufacturing IT industry as Flexware Innovation’s new Manufacturing IT Consultant.

“I missed you in February of 2006. I hope I don’t miss you now,” wrote Scott Whitlock, president of Flexware Innovation, in a personal letter that Greg Stevens read daily for months before joining Flexware.

Rewind to 2005: As an undergraduate at Purdue, Stevens reached out to Whitlock in hopes of securing a position at Flexware. The timing wasn’t right, and neither was it in 2009, when Stevens chose another job over a Flexware offer.

But, as the saying goes, the third time is a charm: That letter Whitlock wrote several months earlier—which spoke of family values, people above profits, Stevens’ fit and immediate impact on Flexware’s leadership—echoed in Stevens’ mind. “I finally had to change course and chase down the opportunity,” said Stevens. Whitlock was glad to revive the offer.

In his new role, Stevens serves as an advisor to top Midwest manufacturing companies, helping them integrate all parts of their manufacturing operations. The goal? Reducing cycle times, banishing productivity black holes and uncovering new profit opportunities for Flexware’s clients. It’s all part of a custom-built strategy that’s attracted a slew of manufacturing “giants”—from pharmaceuticals to automakers to chocolatiers—to Flexware’s impressive client list.

“Greg is critical to our health, growth and longevity,” said Whitlock, citing the young professional’s blend of technical and people skills. “Having been in this business for a long time and seeing lots of people succeed and fail,” Whitlock added, “I can say Greg would’ve had a bright career whether or not he chose Flexware. But I’m certainly glad he’s on our team.”

Thankfully, it’s a much easier alternative to the “Plan B” Whitlock alluded to in that famed letter: Cloning Stevens.

>> Reach Greg at greg.stevens@flexwareinnovation.com