At Alliant Technologies, we believe the strongest teams are built by people who are willing to work hard, lead well, and invest in the next generation. Ty Springer, Panel Shop Manager at our Glasgow facility, is a powerful example of that mindset.
Ty recently received the CTE Award from Barren County Technical School, an honor that recognizes his commitment to skilled trades, technical education, and giving back to the community. At just 27 years old, Ty is the youngest recipient of this award by 14 years.
For Ty, the award represents more than professional recognition. It reflects a full-circle moment in a career that started when he was only 15 years old.
From Student to Panel Shop Manager
Ty’s journey in the electrical and panel building industry began at Barren County Technical School. Years later, he now manages the schedule, production, and output of Alliant Technologies’ Panel Shop, overseeing a team of 40 to 50 people.
Before stepping into management, Ty started as a wireman and worked his way up through the company. He describes that path as long and challenging, filled with overtime, hard work, and a determination to earn every step forward.
Today, his role involves more than managing production. It is about leading people, developing talent, solving problems, and helping the team deliver high-quality panel solutions for complex automation and controls projects.
A Recognition Rooted in Giving Back
When asked what receiving the CTE Award means to him, Ty shared that, aside from his wife and baby, it is one of the most meaningful honors of his life.
That is because the award is rooted in something deeply important to him: giving back.
Ty credits much of his career path to the people who invested in him when he was younger, especially Greg Felkins, one of his former teachers. Greg helped inspire Ty’s interest in electrical work and later returned to present the award to him.
For Ty, that moment reinforced the responsibility he feels to support students the same way others once supported him.
Supporting the Future of Skilled Trades
Ty believes Career and Technical Education programs play an important role in introducing students to real career opportunities in manufacturing, electrical work, and panel building.
His message to students is simple: the growth is endless.
“You may start at the bottom of the ladder, but it’s up to you to climb it,” Ty shared.
He also emphasized that there will always be a need for skilled electrical professionals. As industries continue to rely on automation, controls, and advanced manufacturing systems, careers in this field offer long-term opportunity for students who are willing to learn, stay open-minded, and work hard.
Ty encourages companies to do their part by showing up for students, supporting technical programs, and reminding young people that they are the future of the industry.
A Story of Hard Work, Growth, and Resilience
What motivates Ty most is the outcome of the work.
In panel building, projects often start with small parts and pieces. Over time, those components become part of large, complex systems that support facilities, production lines, and operations across industries. For Ty, being part of that process is rewarding.
He is also motivated by the opportunity to pass on knowledge to others. As someone who has experienced firsthand the value of mentorship, Ty understands the impact one person can have by teaching, encouraging, and leading well.
His story is also one of resilience. Ty shared that he grew up in a single-wide trailer and faced difficult circumstances early in life. Today, he is leading a team, building a successful career, and creating a future for his family.
His advice to others is straightforward: never give up, stay coachable, and be willing to learn from those who have gone before you.
Celebrating Ty’s Achievement
Alliant Technologies is proud to celebrate Ty Springer and his well-deserved recognition from Barren County Technical School.
His journey from student to wireman to Panel Shop Manager shows what is possible through hard work, humility, mentorship, and a willingness to keep climbing. More importantly, his commitment to giving back is helping inspire the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
Congratulations, Ty, on this incredible achievement.