NEWS

09.09.2024

Neapco Notables | Kevin Little, Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Our people are truly what make Neapco such a successful supplier across the globe. That success begins with the welcoming learning environment created by our devoted and passionate team members, who make coming to work a joy every day.

In this edition of Neapco Notables, we highlight Kevin Little, Senior Manufacturing Engineer at our Belleville, Michigan plant. Kevin has a strong passion for being involved within the local community through work and out-of-office activities and is always looking for ways he can bring positive energy to those around him.

Kevin sat down with us to share more about his career in the automotive industry, his passion for working at Neapco and how he spends his free time.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to Neapco.

I graduated from Lawrence Technological University with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and then got my Master’s in Engineering Management from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. I have experience working for some of the most well-known automotive manufacturers over the 30 years I have been in the industry.

I came to Neapco in 2016 because it was a successful global company, yet it still had a small and personable feel. When I first started, I was a sales engineer and then transitioned to a manufacturing engineering position, which ended up being the perfect switch for me. I enjoy being able to work on the supplier side because you get the chance to get into the nitty-gritty of the industry and see how each part of the assembly process works.

Additionally, being the optimistic and outgoing guy I am, I love developing genuine connections with new people daily. I am fortunate to experience that with my coworkers, who have become like family. That familiar aspect is seen from the top down. Our CEO is very welcoming and involved with all the different teams across our operations.

Tell us about your role at Neapco.

In my role, I primarily focus on the manufacturing and assembly of our automotive parts and ensuring customer orders and needs are met flawlessly. I work with various departments to ensure machines are up to date and running properly and that deadlines are met. Working with everyone from UAW (United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America) team members to salaried employees, I prioritize keeping strong communication and staying on top of all the moving parts to ensure our entire team is effective.

I also serve as the chair of the Belleville plant chapter of the Neapco Global Belonging Council, which has been a great experience learning about the diverse groups within our company and community. We plan events for holidays and celebrations like Black History Month, International Women’s Day, Juneteenth and Veterans Day, where we honor and recognize those individuals and celebrate the diversity of our team members. Being able to understand a multitude of cultures and foster inclusivity in the workplace is extremely important in building company morale and overall success.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned while working at Neapco?

The most important thing I have learned is to thank people for their time and dedication to their work. I want everyone to know and feel they are appreciated for meeting deadlines and requirements at work. You get so much more accomplished when you work as a team and can lean on those around you, so I believe showing gratitude is key to improving our bond and collaboration.

To build that relationship with my coworkers, I have a coffee machine at my desk and let people know they can grab a cup whenever they want. This gives me time to connect more with them one-on-one, and it goes a long way in making their day brighter. If I can show people they are appreciated and help boost morale, I consider that a great day on the job.

How do you spend your time outside of work?

Civil rights activist Malcolm X was my grandfather’s brother. I have been working with the city of Inkster, MI to restore my grandfather’s home from the 1950s, which Malcolm was paroled to after he was released from prison, and turning it into a museum. We have been digging into our family history, which has been extraordinary to be a part of. I also try to get involved in the community in any way I can, so I often volunteer at food banks or donate time to special needs organizations over the weekend.

Outside the office, I also spend my time listening, playing and learning about all things music. I played bass guitar in college and jazz horn in high school, and love going out to see live performances of all genres. Music is my first love and it’s so special in how it can help people bond. If you like the same song or artist as someone else, it immediately creates a connection between the two of you.

Interested in joining the Neapco team? Click here to take a look at our open positions.