Congratulations to Carl Spraberry who was awarded Entrepreneur of the Year 2022 by the Chamber of Commerce.
Philosophy: “Focus on the pennies and you will manage the dollars.”
Why do you do your business/what you do? Advanced Integrated Technologies specializes in Navy shipboard maintenance and modernization. I served and retired from the Navy, so I know what it’s like to operate a Navy ship. I continue to support the fleet and war fighters so they can do their job with 100% operability.
What’s the key to your success thus far? Hiring young, ambitious men and women as management and empowering them to make quick decisions on-site and creating an atmosphere of a supportive team effort.
What lessons have you learned along the way? I have learned that you never arrive, you have to constantly stay on top of your A-game. Complacency and comfortability are not the mindset to succeed.
In what ways are you involved in the community? Supporting local leaders that have an impact on our community and industry. I have served and continue to serve on several boards for both our community and local charities. My involvement includes Southside Boys & Girls Club, Women Against Violence, HER (Help and Emergency Response) Shelter, Special Olympics, United Way of Hampton Roads, Tusk & Trunk and Ability Center of Virginia.
What makes someone an entrepreneur? Someone that is willing to take risks regardless of those who tell you that you shouldn’t. You must take on any role to achieve your vision. Being passionate about what you do.
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs? Don’t do things in a grand way. Take time to evaluate, reevaluate and assess. Establish short-term and long-term achievable goals. If money is your motivation, you’re doing it for the wrong reasons.
How do you measure your success as an entrepreneur? Providing a high level of customer satisfaction and being the ship repair company, our customers trust and want to work with. Having the privilege of providing career opportunities while contributing to our community and national defense.
What entrepreneurship book/resource do you recommend? In addition to local business coaching company Excelerate, I recommend these books: “Good to Great,” “The Manager’s Role as Coach,” “The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive” and “Run Improve Grow.”