Mary Andringa

Chair of the Board / Vermeer Corporation / 1949 / Inducted 2019

Mary Andringa’s commitment and relentless leadership positioned Vermeer Corporation as a strong voice in the industry – for lean manufacturing, for the education of our future workforce, for the legislation of policies having a positive impact on manufacturing, for family-owned and -operated companies and for taking care of the people of Vermeer.

Mary’s own investment into lean manufacturing led to organization-wide change for continuous improvement and growth. An example of success: Vermeer’s 12-inch in-feed brush chipper went from raw steel to finished product in two days, rather than 52.

Starting her career teaching elementary students, Mary has a passion for education and continuous learning that’s continued throughout her time at Vermeer. This passion prompted Vermeer to expand its education initiatives at all levels – early childhood education with an onsite early learning center, college-age students with an international leadership program and onsite facility at Iowa State University, as well as adults with preparation for retirement.

Mary actively communicates and collaborates with legislators on issues that matter to advanced manufacturing, exporters and small- to medium- sized businesses. She served on the President’s Export Council and Ex-Im Bank Advisory Committee, chaired the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and was co-chair of the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council.

Continuing the legacy her father left, Mary helped define and promote the Vermeer 4P Philosophy (principles, people, product and profit), with people being our most important asset. Vermeer initiatives include an onsite primary care clinic and pharmacy for employees and their families.

Mary is now Chair of the Board at Vermeer after filling roles as CEO, co-CEO, president and COO. Her level of passion and commitment have made her a voice of change and innovation not only at Vermeer, but in the industry and community.