CEO Today USA Awards

NAJAT EL-AYI BADRIYEH CEO of Naprotek How did you come to create Naprotek, Inc? I founded Naprotek in 1995, during a time that Woman- Owned Small Businesses weren’t as common as they are today. My dream of Naprotek began when I realized there was a serious gap in the EMS manufacturing technology segment. I saw that engineers in the industry were not getting what they needed at that time, and demand was growing for PCBA prototype manufacturing and medium volume services. After acquiring sufficient experience and knowledge, I knew that I could create a unique solution while achieving my dream of starting a manufacturing business. My vision was to create something outstanding: A place where engineers could rest assured that quality and on-time delivery would be better than any place in the industry; a place where service would be outstanding, and where the employees would feel at home, and stay and grow with the organization. Thus, Naprotek began. My dream was coming to life, while providing a quality service that the industry needed. Many of your employees have worked at Naprotek for more than 15 years - what would you say is the key behind employee retention? Our employees are one of the key elements to success. Nourishing strong employee relationships is a primary focus. I walk on the floor daily, speaking to each employee, listening to their feedback or concerns. It remains important that each person continues to feel that their feedback matters in the company’s commitment to producing superior quality and phenomenal customer satisfaction. Our customers know we will do whatever it takes to get their working product in their hands on time, and our employees know we care for them and that this is their home. Trust is at all levels within our organization. We work hard every day, and everyone is a part of this, including our customers. The Naprotek rewards are great and the company continues to grow and remain profitable. Not only are profits shared with employees, but the company Naprotek: How Najat El-Ayi Badriyeh Has Grown Her WOSB into a Leading EMS Provider Introducing Najat El-Ayi Badriyeh I was born in Tripoli, Lebanon, and immigrated to the US at a young age, joining the electronic industry in the early 80s. It was auspicious timing as it allowed me to witness and participate in the electronic revolution. I was recognized for demonstrating strong leadership and managerial qualities, and acquired management positions at Silicon Valley companies like Best Labs, Diasonics, Space Craft International (SCI) and Fine Pitch Technology. My experience in startup companies, and success in developing and improving SMT processes in the early 80s, influenced my decision to move forward and create one of the first Woman-Owned Small Businesses that would significantly compete in the electronics manufacturing arena in one of the world’s most attractive areas: The Silicon Valley. Q Q CALIFORNIA 27 www.ceotodaymagazine.com CEO Today USAAwards 2018