Employee Spotlight: Michael Smith - MRO Account Manager & BOLD Chairperson

What does BOLD mean to you??

BOLD means a lot to me, I think it’s the true culmination of diversity, equity and advocacy at AWI. When we were able to get it started under the leadership of Salena Coachman and Jelani Rucker , I was ecstatic. I was more than happy to take on the responsibility and it’s incredible that we recently passed the one-year mark.

As one of the founders of BOLD, what inspired you to create this employee resource group for Black professionals at Armstrong?

Seeing Salena and Jelani's impactful leadership and their dedication to mentoring other Black professionals at Armstrong was truly inspiring. Their mentorship fueled my desire to create additional mentorship avenues for up-and-coming employees within the company. I firmly believe that BOLD offers a space to support and uplift everyone.

Can you share some of the key goals and objectives of the employee resource group, and how it has evolved since its inception?

Initially, we aimed to create a network of BIPOC and allies within AWI, supporting community engagement and advocacy with a long-term goal of transforming the manufacturing space. Over time, our focus broadened to include promoting diversity and inclusion across the board, not just for Black professionals but for everyone. This led to creating events like Black History Month and Juneteenth celebrations, as well as leadership meetings. We've also been dedicated to mentorship and community outreach.

Where do you see BOLD five years from now?

We see BOLD continuing its mission to support individuals across different career stages, especially those who may have experienced marginalization but have found empowerment through the group. Our two-year leadership terms ensure continuous inclusion of new voices. We anticipate BOLD expanding its reach and impact, partnering with other companies and their ERGs to drive industry-wide change in manufacturing and design.

Can you share a specific moment or accomplishment in your career that you feel particularly proud of?

One moment that stands out for me is when we renegotiated a contract with a major vendor. We managed to minimize paybacks and rebates while achieving double-digit growth in 2023, even though it was a year we expected to see a decline. It showcased the resilience and hard work of the team. Understanding how to measure and quantify these achievements was made possible through my recent participation in an external learning and development program. I had the opportunity to attend this program thanks to the mentorship and development opportunities I received through AWI.

What advice would you give to other Black professionals aspiring to succeed in corporate environments?

Focus on the goal at hand and don't let those resistant to change distract you. Instead, inspire them to see it as well. Prioritize seeking out sponsorship and mentorship opportunities—they're crucial for advancing in your career.