MMT Chats: Resilience Through Relationships After a Hurricane

In late September, Hurricane Helene swept through North Carolina, leaving destruction in its wake. One mold shop that faced the storm was Western Carolina Tool and Mold, led by Gabe English. I invited Gabe to share his journey of recovery, from the immediate aftermath to rebuilding operations and ensuring his team’s safety and livelihood.

Gabe described the shock of waking up to devastation after a beautiful day, his initial thought being, “What can I do for someone now?” For Gabe, coworkers are family, and his priority was ensuring their well-being. The challenges were immense—FEMA’s disaster area designation froze freight, and essential steel had to be retrieved through a grueling 12-hour drive. Yet, the team pulled through, overcoming obstacles with determination and the support of their community.

Gabe credits relationships and resourcefulness for their resilience. From friends in logistics to local charities like Samaritan’s Purse and Baptists on Mission, community support was invaluable. Gabe emphasizes having cash reserves, a line of credit and adequate insurance coverage to manage disruptions. He also stressed the importance of "taking care of your people," recalling payroll handled roadside when communication lines were down.

Despite the challenges, growth continues. Western Carolina Tool and Mold recently welcomed a Makino D200Z for high-speed 5-axis capabilities, underscoring the team’s commitment to innovation.

To help ongoing recovery efforts, Gabe encourages donations to Samaritan’s Purse and Baptists on Mission, organizations vital to their community’s recovery. This story reminds us that resilience and relationships drive not just recovery but growth in the moldmaking industry. Moldmaking goes on, stronger than ever.