In this episode of Manufacturing Mavericks, we're heading to Salt Lake City to talk with Steve Van Orden and Eric Van Orden —father and son leaders at Paramount Machine. Steve started the company in the family garage with a manual lathe and a bold vision. Now, Eric is helping lead the next chapter of growth with a focus on automation, people-first culture, and smart investments in technology.
Eric opens up about why his dad made him start at the bottom and how that decision shaped his leadership style. From sweeping the shop floor to now helping run a 70-person team, Eric shares his perspective on generational transitions, developing trust within the team, and what it takes to modernize without losing your core.
Together, Steve and Eric talk about the balancing act of family and business, the turning points in Paramount’s growth, and why listening to employees is a competitive advantage.
If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to grow a shop across decades and do it with heart, humility, and smarts—this one’s for you.
Show Notes:
2:20 — The garage days: How Paramount started with a manual lathe and a vision
4:03 — Why Eric started with a broom, not a title
7:43 — Choosing the shop over law school
10:43 — Why Steve invests based on employee feedback
14:25 — Betting on Swiss machines changed the game
19:25 — Developing new talent without a programming department
23:30 — Navigating the tension and trust of a family business
37:39 — Datanomix's positive change on Paramount's culture
The Datanomix Difference: What Makes It Work?
It’s not just what you see. It’s how fast you see it, how clearly it shows up, and how easily your team acts on it.
Learn more at www.datanomix.io