Broad alumnae wins West Michigan Spartans Businessperson of the Year

On November 14th, 2024, the 30^th annual MSU Means Business event took place at the Michigan State University Grand Rapids Research Center and the Doug Meijer Medical Innovation Building. The highly anticipated gathering brought together MSU alumni, business leaders, and community members to celebrate and honor those who have made significant contributions to Michigan State University and the West Michigan community.

A central highlight of the evening was the recognition of Kelly Springer (B.A. Accounting ’91)as the 2024 West Michigan Spartans Businessperson of the Year. As the President and CEO of Metal Flow Corporation, Springer was celebrated for her outstanding leadership and significant impact in her industry and in the community.

Since becoming President and CEO of Metal Flow Corporation in 2017, Springer has led the company to new levels of success. Metal Flow, a leading manufacturer of custom metal components for the global automotive industry, operates both in Holland, Michigan, and Wuxi, China. Springer’s experience with Metal Flow began in 2013, when she joined the company as Chief Financial Officer, after a successful 22-year career in public accounting. Throughout her tenure, she played a key role in shaping Metal Flow’s growth and overseeing its global operations.

Her strategic vision and management skills have helped position Metal Flow as an industry leader, known for producing technically sophisticated products. Springer’s ability to lead a company that spans international borders and her deep expertise in manufacturing will be highlighted as a testament to her leadership excellence.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kelly Springer is widely recognized for her commitment to giving back to the community. She was honored not only for her leadership at Metal Flow but also for her significant contributions to various local organizations. Springer currently serves on the Board of Directors for Lakeshore Advantage, Michigan Women Forward, and as the Executive Champion for Inforum’s ManufacturingNEXT industry group, an initiative aimed at advancing women in the manufacturing sector.

Her work with these organizations underscores her dedication to fostering economic development and supporting women in leadership roles. In 2017, Springer was awarded the Lakeshore Athena Leadership Award, and in 2021, she was named a Woman of Achievement and Courage by Michigan Women Forward.

Springer was also recognized for her ongoing involvement with Michigan State University. A graduate of the Eli Broad College of Business, she was celebrated for her active participation in alumni initiatives that support current students and help future Spartans succeed in the business world.

The MSU Means Business event also featured a dynamic panel discussion from the Dashney Women’s Leadership Accelerator (DWLA) scholars. This program is designed to help women in business develop the tools they need to advance into senior leadership roles. The panel, led by the program’s namesake, Helen Dashney, included Broad students and alumnae, discussing how the DWLA is empowering future leaders. Kelly Springer served as the moderator of this inspiring discussion, offering her own insights and expertise on leadership.

During the evening’s ceremony, Judy Whipple, the former Dean of the Broad College of Business, honored Springer with remarks highlighting her exceptional career and community involvement.