Tech-Driven, People-Powered: Spartek’s Culture of Innovation
This Month, we’re taking this opportunity to highlight the many ways Spartek and Marca Technologies are embracing innovation to power our operations, better serve our customers, and grow together as a team. Technology is not just a tool; it’s a bridge to efficiency, quality, and long-term sustainability. At Spartek, our technology initiatives are anchored in our 2025 theme of Kinetic Focus; continuous movement forward, driven by collaboration, culture, and customer excellence.
Building Smarter Systems: ERP Rollout & Digital Integration
Our ERP system is at the core of our digital transformation. After two years of foundational setup, we are now rolling it out department by department at our Sparta facility, with full implementation targeted by the end of 2025. This system will unify scheduling, inventory management, order tracking, purchasing, and financials; giving us greater visibility, better accuracy, and a stronger platform for growth.
We’re also preparing to implement the same ERP system at our Marca Technologies facility in Maine. This shared system will enhance communication, eliminate duplication, and reduce redundancy across both companies, making tasks such as financial reporting, job ordering, and resource planning far more streamlined.
Looking ahead, we are also exploring the CRM module of our ERP system to strengthen customer relationship management. We are exploring new modules for preventive maintenance tracking (PMs) to support our maintenance and reliability goals. Importantly, we are committed to training all staff members on the ERP system, so they feel confident and empowered to use it, from the shop floor to the front office.
AI in Action: Amplifying Continuous Improvement
Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword, it’s a practical tool we’re using to support real-world results at Spartek. As part of our continuous improvement and LEAN journey, we’ve begun leveraging AI to assist with process documentation, project management, communication planning, and even leadership development. From refining training materials and SOPs to supporting cross-functional team clarity, AI is helping us move faster and smarter without losing sight of what matters most, our people and our culture.
Our leadership team has also utilized AI to draft materials for our quarterly Rocks, employee newsletters, and case studies, as well as to support internal discussions around EOS practices, such as IDS (Identity, Discuss, Solve) and Leader Standard Work. It’s become a quiet but powerful teammate, always ready to provide structure, sharpen messaging, or offer a fresh perspective.
As we continue to invest in tools like ERP and automation, AI is becoming an integral part of our broader system of operational excellence, helping us coach, clarify, and connect the dots across departments and disciplines. It’s not about replacing people; it’s about amplifying their impact.
Tools That Move Us Forward: Marca Equipment & Upgrades
Technology isn’t just digital — it’s mechanical, electrical, and engineered for precision. At Marca Technologies, our equipment design and automation capabilities continue to advance rapidly.
We’ve recently completed key upgrades to our inline metallizing and coating systems, helping us meet high-volume demands for critical projects. These systems were designed in-house by Marca’s team of engineers and machinists to handle complex part geometries with high throughput, consistent quality, and minimal labor.
To ensure our people are prepared to operate and maintain this high-tech equipment, we’ve rolled out specialized training programs, including:
- Allen-Bradley PLC and controls training for engineering staff
- SoMove software training for electromechanical employees
- Technical cross-training between Spartek and Marca to enhance problem-solving and shared knowledge
These investments in people are just as significant as the tools themselves.
More Connected Than Ever: VOIP Consolidation & Communication Efficiency
We’ve also launched a VOIP system consolidation project to link Spartek and Marca Technologies more seamlessly. Improving internal communication, simplifying system management, and allowing us to operate more cohesively as one company across two locations. Whether it’s a call between engineers troubleshooting a metallizer or leadership teams coordinating project timelines, faster, more efficient communication is a significant win.
Innovation in Action: Supporting Customers with Smarter Solutions
Our focus on technology is directly tied to our commitment to partnership with our customers and their success. Here are just a few recent examples:
- Whirlpool: We helped this customer launch a new line by overcoming complex and precise measurement requirements. Aided by our Keyence IMM inspection machine.
- Tito’s Vodka: Our agility and innovation in 2023 earned us the Value To Tito’s Award after we stepped in to run the 33MM closures during a supplier disruption while maintaining high output on the 28MM line.
In every one of these partnerships, technology has played a critical role; enabling us to scale, adapt, and exceed expectations.
Training, Trust, and Teamwork
We understand technology without people doesn’t move the needle. Therefore, we continue to focus on building a culture of trust and learning; ensuring training and coaching are integrated into every rollout, every upgrade, and every shift.
From ERP user training to maintenance team upskilling to Leader Standard Work and CI coaching, we’re building a workforce of change agents who are ready for what’s next.
At Spartek, we believe that true innovation is built on a foundation of curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to evolve. From ERP implementation to automated metallizing systems, from AI-powered insights to cross-trained teams, our technology investments are driving more than just efficiency; they’re shaping a culture of continuous improvement and kinetic progress.
We’re proud to recognize the tools that help us grow and the people who make them matter. If you’re on a similar journey: exploring ERP, AI, automation, or CI in manufacturing, let’s connect. Follow along, share your insights, or reach out to learn more about how Spartek is redefining what’s possible in modern manufacturing.
When technology and people move forward together, there’s no limit to what we can build.
