Rob Cain’s journey at McConway & Torley is a testament to dedication, growth, and the power of teamwork. This past July, Rob marked 12 years with the company, a career that began on the grinding floor and has evolved into a leadership role that influences both people and processes.
Rob began his career grinding couplers and then moved to the yoke line. From there, he transitioned to quality, later taking on the role of Senior Business Administrator overseeing the lab. After a period of company downsizing, he returned to quality and climbed the ranks through the company’s Craftsman Program—from journeyman to Master Craftsman. Rob then completed the CCAC class, also known as the IMT program, which prepared him for his eventual supervisory role.
Rob credits programs like the IMT and Dale Carnegie for shaping his approach to leadership. “IMT helps with everything we do—quality, safety, production. It gave me a different perspective on how to set up lines, staff areas, and implement lean principles,” he says. These programs, he notes, are not only valuable for aspiring managers but also improve performance for employees in any role.
When asked which program has been most impactful in his supervisory role, Rob points to Dale Carnegie: “It showed me a better way to communicate with people. That class should be mandatory for anyone in a supervisory role.”
Rob has seen McConway & Torley evolve significantly over the years. When he first started, the focus was heavily on quantity. Over time, the culture shifted toward teamwork and quality, and these changes have made a lasting impact. “When we started focusing on quality instead of just pushing numbers, it made a big difference for everybody,” he explains.
Since FerroWorks’ leadership changes, Rob has noticed a stronger top-down approach: “They’re providing direction, resources, and follow-up. The one-piece flow concept is actually sticking now, and everyone is bought in. That consistency makes a huge difference.”
For Rob, leadership is about more than overseeing production—it’s about inspiring people to see their work as a career, not just a job. “I want to supervise people in a way that sets an example, shows them the benefits of dedication, and helps them build a life,” he says. Rob’s own journey—from struggling on the yoke line to achieving record production numbers—demonstrates the impact of perseverance and teamwork.
Rob’s advice for employees? Stop overthinking and focus on the process. He recalls a turning point early in his career: once he let go of stress and overanalyzing, his output doubled. “Once you stop overthinking, the job becomes a lot easier,” he says.
Rob Cain’s story is a reminder that growth, teamwork, and the right mindset can transform a career. His path from grinder to supervisor shows that with the right opportunities and dedication, anyone can build a rewarding career at McConway & Torley.
