Chris Curwood Appointed to Southwest Manufacturers Board
MITER Brands has announced the appointment of Chris Curwood, Plant Manager at its Fort Myers facility, to the board of the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association (SRMA). The appointment marks a significant milestone for both Curwood and the company, reinforcing their shared commitment to advancing the manufacturing sector in Southwest Florida.
Curwood will serve on the 15-member SRMA board for a two-year term beginning March 1, 2026. In this role, he will contribute to guiding the association’s strategic direction while representing the interests of local manufacturers. His responsibilities will include advocating for industry growth, sharing best practices, and helping to strengthen collaboration among manufacturers, educational institutions, and community organizations.
A key focus of Curwood’s role will be workforce development. As the manufacturing industry continues to evolve, attracting and retaining skilled talent remains a critical priority. Through his involvement with SRMA, Curwood will support initiatives aimed at building strong talent pipelines, enhancing training programs, and ensuring that the regional workforce is equipped to meet the demands of modern manufacturing.
The SRMA plays a vital role in supporting manufacturers across the region by providing access to resources, industry expertise, and collaborative opportunities. The association facilitates peer-to-peer learning, connects businesses with subject matter experts, and advocates on behalf of the industry at the local and state levels. By fostering these connections, SRMA helps manufacturers improve productivity, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth.
For Curwood, joining the SRMA board represents an opportunity to deepen his engagement with the regional manufacturing community. He expressed enthusiasm about contributing to efforts that strengthen the industry’s voice, particularly in areas such as government policy, workforce training, and certification programs. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that manufacturers have a seat at the table when decisions are made that impact the future of the industry.
Curwood brings extensive experience to his new role, having spent more than two decades in the manufacturing sector. He has been with PGT Custom Windows and Doors—a part of the MITER Brands portfolio—since 2001. Over the course of his 25-year career, he has held a variety of leadership positions, steadily advancing through roles such as Field Service Manager, Area Leader, Director of Manufacturing, Focused Factory Manager, and Operations Manager.
Throughout his career, Curwood has developed a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, particularly in the production of aluminum and vinyl window solutions for both residential and commercial markets. His expertise spans product development, operational implementation, and customer service, making him a well-rounded leader in the industry.
In his current position as Plant Manager at MITER Brands’ Fort Myers facility, Curwood oversees operations involving more than 1,200 team members. He has built a strong reputation for fostering highly engaged and productive teams, as well as for driving operational excellence. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration, continuous improvement, and a commitment to quality—qualities that will serve him well in his role on the SRMA board.
The appointment has been widely recognized within MITER Brands as a reflection of both Curwood’s individual achievements and the company’s broader dedication to industry leadership. Chris Davis, Vice President of Operations at MITER Brands, highlighted the significance of having company representatives actively involved in industry associations. He noted that participation at this level allows the organization to contribute to important discussions around building standards, safety regulations, and innovation.
Davis also emphasized the importance of being involved in shaping policies such as Florida’s building and hurricane codes. By engaging directly with industry associations and regulatory bodies, MITER Brands can help ensure that standards evolve in ways that prioritize safety, resilience, and technological advancement. This proactive approach not only benefits the company but also supports the overall progress of the manufacturing sector.
Curwood’s academic background further complements his professional experience. He holds a master’s degree in business with a focus on operational management from Webster University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from the University of South Florida. His educational foundation has played a key role in shaping his approach to leadership and operational strategy.
The appointment also reflects a broader trend of engagement by MITER Brands and its affiliated companies within industry organizations. In the previous year, another company leader, Chris Ruff, Senior Director of Operations at PGT Custom Windows and Doors, was appointed to the board of the Sarasota-Manatee Area Manufacturers Association (SAMA). Like SRMA, SAMA is dedicated to advancing the manufacturing industry and improving quality of life through economic development.
Industry leaders have recognized the value that companies like PGT Custom Windows and Doors bring to these associations. Rob Harris, Executive Director of SAMA, noted that having representation from a major manufacturing employer contributes significant expertise and insight. He highlighted the company’s willingness to share best practices and collaborate with other members as a key benefit of its involvement.
By participating in both SRMA and SAMA, MITER Brands and its affiliated organizations are helping to shape the future of manufacturing in the region. Their involvement ensures that industry perspectives are represented in critical discussions and that best practices are shared across the community.
Overall, Curwood’s appointment to the SRMA board underscores the importance of leadership, collaboration, and industry engagement in driving progress. As the manufacturing sector continues to face new challenges and opportunities, leaders like Curwood play a vital role in guiding its development and ensuring its long-term success.
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