Best Places to Work: Spec Rubber grows business, keeping focus on employees

Specification Rubber Products (Spec Rubber) manufactures molded rubber goods for the waterworks industry, with an emphasis on rubber gaskets. In recent years, the Alabama-based company has expanded its reach in manufacturing custom molds of high quality and close tolerance for a variety of industries that use gaskets when installing iron or any other material pipes.

Among the polymers used by Spec Rubber to manufacture its rubber products are SBR, natural rubber, nitrile, EPDM, neoprene, silicone and fluoroelastomers. Its team of experts has the capability to formulate custom rubber compounds to meet customer requirements as well.

With steady revenue and product growth, Spec Rubber makes an effort to keep its employees engaged and happy in their jobs, which has led to a low turnover rate and highly satisfied customers, according to Sales and Marketing Coordinator Crystal Humphreys.

Here's what she had to say about the company.

"While it might sound cliche, the people—and the team as a whole—truly help Specification Rubber Products stand out in the North American rubber industry."

"Spec Rubber prioritizes the safety, health and well-being of our team, which is considered the heartbeat of our operations. Teams like Workforce Solutionist and Operational Excellence are integral in driving a new era of appreciation, communication, growth and productivity. These internal efforts ensure that teammates not only contribute to the company's success but also grow professionally and personally, benefiting from a supportive and enriching work environment.

"We provide a full range of exceptional benefits, including an all-encompassing health care package, a 401(k) plan bolstered by company-contributed non-elective contributions, continuous service compensation, a profit-sharing plan, perfect attendance compensation, a healthy PTO program and various celebrations and events throughout the year.

"Spec Rubber is not only a leader in manufacturing but also a beacon of community engagement and social responsibility. The awards are nice, but the difference we've been able to make in the lives of our neighbors is far greater. We are proud supporters of many community organizations, including but not limited to more than 30 years of working with United Way and community partnerships with Shelby County Chamber, Shelby Cancer Center, Safe House of Shelby County, Shelby Emergency Assistance, Alabaster City School District and more."

"While we question the word 'fun,' we are, after all, in the rubber processing business. The work we do can be loud, hot and repetitive. So we give our teammates voices in the process, provide them a seat at the table and afford them the opportunity to create solutions and remove obstacles. We recognize them for participation and involvement, not just producing a product. While we do go to great lengths to celebrate and recognize our teammates, getting them engaged has proven to be part of our success. The following are some of the activities our teams celebrate annually.

"Every March, we take a moment to celebrate the heart of our company—our dedicated teammates—by marking National Employee Appreciation Day an event with enthusiasm, treats and activities. We then eagerly anticipate our annual tailgate party each August, a vibrant kickoff to the college football season.

"In October, we celebrate our Annual Barracuda Day, Breast Cancer Awareness and the Imagine a Day Without Water Campaign. Naturally, this day wouldn't be complete without food, refreshing drinks, fun games and great company. Most notably, Spec Rubber made a memorable appearance in the Annual Alabaster Christmas Parade, clinching the "Best Use of Theme" trophy in 2023, a testament to our team's creativity and spirit!"

"At Spec Rubber, we're not just committed to clean, safe drinking water; we're passionate about it, it's our mission. That's why our waterworks components are NSF-61. Our NSF-61 certification isn't just a badge we wear proudly—it's a promise that our products are safe for your drinking water systems, ensuring peace of mind.

"As the leading gasket and sealing manufacturer, our pride doesn't stop at safety. We go above and beyond, offering the industry's best products with the customization customers need. It's this dedication to quality and tailor-made service that sets us apart from other players. We don't just produce; we innovate, ensuring every product that leaves our premises is a benchmark for quality, durability and precision in any industry."

"While success looks different for many, on one level we define success as profitability. Being a for-profit business, success hinges on our ability to make a profit. We are a growing and thriving business as dictated by our recent acquisition of a 120,000-sq.-ft. building on 16.5 acres. Success is also defined by ensuring the safety and well-being of our team."