Adam Brumfield is the Director of Business and Product Development Roy Metal Finishing in Easley, South Carolina, one of the largest finishing operations in the U.S.
He has been with RMF for over 21 years and is active in the finishing industry, serving as a Board Member for the South Carolina Automotive Council. Along with his APQP team, Brumfield manages new programs from RFQ, APQP, PPAP, and Safe Launch. He and his team are also responsible for the development of new processes/products based on customer requirements.
Adam BrumfieldHow did you get your start in the finishing industry?
My college roommate was working with Dipsol as a chemical rep and RMF was one of his customers. John Pazdan, RMF’s president, was looking for a quality manager with manufacturing experience and I was looking for another opportunity with a smaller company. Interviewed with John soon after and have been at RMF for 21 years.
What do enjoy best about the industry?
This business does not have “easy buttons” to press each morning. The finishing industry is ever-changing with new technologies such as equipment, chemicals, people and opportunities; that keeps me out of my comfort zone.
Who is your hero?
Both of my grandfathers were in the farming business for all of their lives, and their work ethic and determination to succeed and provide for their families made an early impression on me. I would work during the summers bailing hay, milking cows, feeding cattle, driving the farm equipment — at very young age — and just wanting to be with them as much as possible.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
Anywhere in Europe, but specifically Germany. I’ve been fortunate to travel in Germany, Austria, Sweden, France, and the Czech Republic several times while visiting the headquarters of many of our European customers that have operations in the Southeast U.S. The history, traditions, food, and landscape of Germany is amazing.
What is your favorite family vacation?
Spring Break 2019 to Los Angeles and San Diego.
What would you change about yourself if you could?
A boat load of impatience at times.
What motivates you to work hard?
First is my family; my wife and two college-age kids. Second, the 225 associates at RMF motivate me and our team to ensure they have a safe, productive and progressive place to work every day, and that we are always looking for ways to improve, grow and advance our company.
What is your favorite thing about your career?
The opportunity to travel in the U.S. and Europe.
What is your favorite book?
All of the “Killing” books written by Bill O’Reilly, especially Killing Lincoln. I really enjoy U.S. and European history, and learning the “behind the scene” details of each of his books is interesting.
What makes you laugh the most?
My wife and kids keep me from taking things too seriously. My wife often reminds me to “let your work be your vocation and not your reputation.”
What was the last movie you went to?
It’s been too long to remember, but my all-time favorite movie is “The Outsiders.”
What did you want to be when you were small?
Quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys; I still do.
If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?
Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway during the fall season and leave my phone at home.
What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?
Clemson Tiger football — we live 20 minutes from campus — has always been our family thing, and we’ve made a lifetime of mostly good memories. Golf when I have time.
Would you rather ride a bike, ride a horse, or drive a car?
Drive on the A5 in Germany.
What would you sing at Karaoke night?
“Turn Out The Lights The Party Is Over” is the most appropriate song.
What would be your last meal?
Peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
Who is your favorite author?
Bill O’Reilly and John Grisham.
Would you rather win the lottery or work at the perfect job? And why?
The lottery would give us an opportunity to continue to support our local agencies that work hard to improve the lives of those much less fortunate.
Who would you want to be stranded with on a deserted island?
Other than my wife, George Carlin, Elvis and Tony Dorsett.
