Newcomb Spring Attends the 2025 SMI Annual Meeting
- Originally published by Abbi Gillette
Culture, Connection, and Leadership
The 2025 SMI Annual Meeting in New Orleans was a celebration of the people, purpose, and progress driving the spring manufacturing industry forward. Newcomb Spring was proud to be part of the action, contributing to meaningful conversations and reinforcing our commitment to innovation, leadership, and community.
This year’s event placed a strong emphasis on company culture and cross-generational engagement, with keynote speakers diving deep into how newer generations approach leadership, communication, and motivation differently. It was a necessary discussion as the industry looks ahead to the future workforce.
Insights from Newcomb Spring
Newcomb’s team was actively involved throughout the week. Keith Porter Jr, GM of Newcomb Spring of North Carolina and Chairperson of the SMI Communications Committee, reflected on the impact of the event:
“My key takeaway from this year’s SMI meeting was that overall, the industry is thriving. The concentration was on company culture and engaging new generations and setting up a culture for success across all the different generations." - Keith Porter Jr, General Manager of Newcomb Spring of North Carolina
Networking remained a key highlight for many, offering space to connect with industry peers, suppliers, and even competitors. “The networking, for me, is one of the best pieces of going to these events,” Keith shared. “You get to share your business successes and struggles, and you connect through common ground with them.”
A standout moment came during the SMI Mardi Gras parade, where attendees marched through downtown New Orleans accompanied by live music, stilt walkers, and a police escort—an unforgettable celebration.
Leading the Meeting: Don Jacobson III
Newcomb Spring’s Vice President of Business Development, Don Jacobson III, served as this year’s SMI President and helped guide the event’s vision and tone. From leading board meetings and receptions to participating in a leadership panel, his presence helped shape a week that was both engaging and impactful. Reflecting on the experience, he shared:
“Growth happens in the moments that challenge us. Leading and serving the spring manufacturing industry in this role is one of those moments—and I’m better for it. There’s nothing quite like being in a room full of passionate, driven professionals who are shaping the future of our industry.” - Don Jacobson III, President of SMI
As the industry continues to evolve, events like the SMI Annual Meeting remind us that progress isn’t just measured in production—it’s also found in connection, conversation, and community. Newcomb Spring is proud to be part of that momentum.
