Joe Sprangel

Founder & Principal Consultant at Emmanuel Strategic Sustainability LLC

Staunton, United States

Humanist Manufacturing | Thriving Communities | Better World

My work as an author includes "Humanist Manufacturing: A Humanitarian Approach to Excellence in High-Impact Plant Operations." The book introduces the Humanist Manufacturing framework encompassing what I see as the evolving elements of an exemplary manufacturing operation. I saw a need for a book that laid out a framework that could shape the unique requirements for completing a significant manufacturing operation transformation—one where manufacturing exists for a higher purpose benefiting all internal and external stakeholders.

I am active in thought leadership with weekly blog posts, where manufacturing plays a more substantial role as an integral element of a thriving community. My work explores opportunities to engage members of society who have yet to be considered employable generally. These individuals can be on the autism spectrum, handicapped, minorities, previously incarcerated, returning veterans, and women. The manufacturing industry has opportunities that can allow each citizen of the world to meet, at a minimum, their needs for just and healthy lives—one where manufacturing exists for a higher purpose far beyond making a profit for shareholders.

My consulting company provides consulting, coaching, training and reskilling, and fractional Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) support. The work uses a humanist manufacturing approach with equal emphasis on people, the planet, and profit. Manufacturing operations that successfully implement sustainability initiatives that do the right things from an environmental and social perspective are also more profitable.

I am also an associate professor of business at Mary Baldwin University. I blend my academic and industry backgrounds to redefine the role of manufacturing — to an industry that efficiently and effectively balances environmental, financial, and social success that leads to more inclusive and sustainable local economies for all community members.

I made the transition to higher education after 28 years of industry experience. My career included machine build and repair, machine design, manufacturing engineering, and plant and engineering management.

My highest level of education is a Doctorate of Business Administration degree from Lawrence Technological University (LTU). I also hold degrees in Master of Business Administration from Spring Arbor University, a Bachelor of Business Administration from Eastern Michigan University, and an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology from LTU.

Available For: Advising, Authoring, Consulting, Influencing, Speaking
Travels From: Staunton, Virginia
Speaking Topics: Manufacturing, Sustainability, Strategic Planning