By Jennifer Dubose

70. How NTL Industries Leverages Social Media to Achieve Growth

Greg McArthur’s journey in manufacturing began as a child sweeping floors and cleaning mats in his father’s machine shop. Over the years, he gained hands-on experience, evolving from a lathe hand to a skilled CNC machinist, estimator, and engineer. Eventually, Greg took a bold leap, bidding on a machine sight unseen on eBay and figuring out how to transport and operate it—foreshadowing his entrepreneurial spirit.

In 2017, Greg founded NTL Industries in his garage while working a full-time job. By carefully building a financial foundation, he transitioned to renting a facility, leasing machines, and growing a team. 

Today, NTL Industries is a full-service CNC precision machining shop in Sterling Heights, MI, specializing in defense, aerospace, agriculture, and automation. The company has grown to 11 employees and is moving into a state-of-the-art, 13,000-square-foot facility that reflects its ambitious trajectory.

From the beginning, Greg recognized the power of social media as a cornerstone of NTL’s growth. He embraced platforms like LinkedIn to build a following, share exceptional work, and attract new clients. Greg’s mantra is clear: if you’re not promoting yourself every day, you’re missing opportunities. By leveraging social media as a free marketing tool, NTL has gained exposure, received RFQs, and established a reputation for excellence.

In this episode, Greg shares his story, insights on growing a machine shop, and advice for young entrepreneurs in manufacturing. Whether it’s navigating an economic downturn, diversifying into new markets, or overcoming challenges like labor shortages, Greg’s practical wisdom is a must-hear for anyone looking to grow their business.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in…

  • [1:01] Introducing Greg McArthur and NTL Industries 
  • [5:14] How Greg got into machining 
  • [11:25] Growing the business despite challenges
  • [19:13] How and why NTL Industries diversified
  • [22:54] Leveraging social media for growth 
  • [27:05] Growing into a 13,000 square foot facility
  • [28:47] How they purchase their machines
  • [31:37] What NTL’s hiring process looks like
  • [35:30] NTL’s growth trajectory 
  • [41:02] The challenges they’re overcoming 
  • [46:47] Meeting CMMC requirements
  • [50:05] Greg’s advice for young shops

Resources & People Mentioned

Connect with Greg McArthur

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