In the ever-evolving world of business, few companies stand out as true pioneers. AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) is one such industry leader, redefining commutator and slip ring production through relentless innovation, unwavering commitment to quality, and an unparalleled dedication to customer service. Under the visionary leadership of Mike Akard, ACT has set new benchmarks in reliability, efficiency, and technological advancement.
We are proud to recognize AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) in the Cover of this edition, celebrating its journey from a bold entrepreneurial venture to a globally recognized brand. With its commitment to continuous improvement, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional service, ACT exemplifies what it means to be an industry trailblazer.
The Birth of ACT: A Vision for Change
Mike Akard, President and CEO of ACT MANAGEMENT, Inc dba AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT), founded the company in 1993 after beginning his career in the commutator industry with a small Canadian manufacturer, joining the sales and marketing team. Quickly noticing inefficiencies in the sales process, Mike personally developed custom software that provided automated quotations in real time, revolutionizing his job’s efficiency. However, his forward-thinking approach conflicted with his employer’s reluctance to move beyond their existing model. He explained, “Upper management chose instead to focus on the extreme profitability of the existing model rather than providing an even higher level of customer service to strengthen relationships.”
At the time, Mike’s employer faced significant limitations in product size range, particularly with the increasing demand for smaller, high-performance commutators. This restriction prevented the company from competing in numerous commutator repair and replacement projects. Determined to find a solution, Mike researched the global market, seeking a way to supply the units his employer was incapable of producing. However, his employer showed no interest in expanding their design and manufacturing capabilities to accommodate these evolving industry needs.
Frustrated by the company’s “backward-thinking” approach, Mike took matters into his own hands. In October 1993, he established ACT with a serious commitment to providing top-quality commutators and slip rings while also fostering strong industry relationships and delivering around-the-clock service. His dedication quickly made ACT well known, and the company soon became a global leader, securing clients worldwide through partnerships with the Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA).
From the very beginning, ACT was built on a foundation of innovation and customer service. “We were committed to WINNING from day one, leading to the establishment of a tremendously successful business in a competitive industry.”
Industry Leadership and Innovation
AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) stands at the forefront of commutator and slip ring manufacturing, redefining industry standards with groundbreaking innovations and unmatched delivery speeds. Operating on a 24/7 production schedule, ACT ensures continuous manufacturing, significantly reducing customer downtime and achieving service speeds unparalleled by any manufacturer, past or present, worldwide!
ACTive G-FORCE CERTIFICATION!™
The company introduced the ACTive G-FORCE CERTIFICATION!™, an additional step following routine manufacturing that verifies high-performance commutators withstand testing at a minimum of 150% of the maximum rated RPM while cooling from a minimum of 300°F—all while maintaining perfect stability. This certification process significantly enhances reliability for high-speed applications and provides repair facilities with cost savings due to increased durability, improving their own shop’s reputation. It is provided at no additional charge for all V-ring type commutators with maximum speed ratings greater than 1,699 RPM.
Through this experience, ACT’s staff has learned that exposing commutators to excessive speeds they will never see in normal operation—while also cooling down from elevated temperatures well above anything a healthy motor would ever experience—puts significant stress on the commutator segment pack. Passing these rigorous tests while remaining completely stable absolutely proves “tightness” for longevity beyond standard industry practices. This scientific approach, along with other innovative value-added services, has brought ACT phenomenal success and led to its slogan: “WHEN YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE!™”
ACTive UNDERCUTTING!™
ACT also offers another unique service: ACTive UNDERCUTTING!™, a pre-undercutting service that significantly helps electric motor service shop customers by simplifying the final machining process, reducing time and costs. This value-added service is typically provided at no additional charge, further solidifying ACT’s position as the global leader.
A Strong Team and Strategic Growth
ACT secured its position as the global leader in commutators and slip rings by assembling a diverse team of industry experts, which Mike refers to as the “ACT Family.”
ACT’s staff has been assembled from industry experts relocating to join America’s Championship Team from FIVE different manufacturers of these products, having experienced vastly different ways of designing and building commutators & slip rings of all types and every size range. Through working together to be THE GLOBAL LEADER, every aspect involved in the manufacture and repair of these electro-mechanical parts has been thoroughly evaluated, leading to great improvements in both efficiency and quality.
As technology continues to evolve, ACT has always been the pioneer in innovation, by continuously pursuing improvement in every aspect of the business while others in the industry remain stagnant as a result of repeating the same methods they’ve always used. This has led to tremendous advantages in speed without ever cutting any corners.
ACT has implemented a unique, worker-friendly, shift scheduling program that covers every hour of the day, including nights, weekends, and holidays ensuring continuous, year-round production while providing employees with a flexible work schedule to help improve their lives with their own families outside of work. With a dedicated team and unique strategic scheduling, ACT consistently delivers superior service and reliability and this drive to refine every detail ensures ACT remains ahead of its rivals.
Commitment to Compliance and Quality
In the commutator and slip ring industry, adhering to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and US Department of Defense Military Specification (MIL-Spec) standards is crucial for product reliability and longevity. Mike highlights that “compliance with OEM and/or MIL-Spec requirements is being ignored by more than one other vendor. Non-compliant products are extremely more likely to experience issues adversely affecting the machinery’s stability and lifespan.”
AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) stands out by strictly adhering to these standards. “We KNOW it makes a tremendous difference for reliability and longevity for end-user customers globally.” To affirm their commitment, ACT includes a patriotic Red, White, & Blue seal on every product to certify compliance.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation
AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) fosters innovation by embedding a culture of continuous improvement into every aspect of operations.“That’s the way we’ve always done things! We advocate for a culture of continuous improvement as a core goal.”
Mike emphasizes that the ACT Family attitude is crucial and despite the busy environment, the facility is kept clean and inspiring to reflect this mindset. The shop appearance is designed like a “championship arena”, featuring motivational quotes from celebrities, personal mentors, and humorous banners intended to promote a positive attitude. Mike contrasts this with the past experiences of many where employees only trained their replacements, resulting in a loss of understanding about why certain procedures were followed. At ACT, he explains the technical reasons behind each process, believing that knowing the reasoning behind doing it that way leads to better practices and innovations.
Customer-Centric Approach
ACT’s ability to maintain industry leadership stems not only from innovation but also from its deep commitment to customers. The company fosters strong relationships by offering personalized services, rapid response times, and tailored solutions. Many customers have shared testimonials about how ACT’s reliability has prevented costly downtime, reinforcing its reputation as the go-to provider in the industry.
By constantly engaging with clients, ACT anticipates future industry challenges and adapts accordingly, ensuring that customer needs are met with precision and efficiency.
Preparing for the Future
Looking ahead, ACT remains committed to expansion and continuous innovation. In 2024, the company strengthened its workforce by adding sales and customer service professionals to further enhance its reputation for exceptional service and rapid response times. Mike shares, “We have expanded our physical presence to South America, Australia, and Europe, allowing us to better support global customers with ACTually CERTIFIED COMPLIANT!™ commutators and slip rings.”
In addition to its global footprint, ACT excels in emergency response services, ensuring swift delivery to mitigate critical equipment failures. To further extend ACT’s reach and industry influence, Mike actively participates in EASA events worldwide and attends leading professional expositions, reinforcing the company’s position as a global leader in commutator and slip ring manufacturing.
Looking to the long-range future for ACT, Mike is preparing to transition leadership to his granddaughter, Camron Nipper, who has been involved with AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) from a very young age and is currently completing her Business Management degree. Mike’s commitment to eliminating any form of a “training my replacement” mentality remains a top priority. His goal is to ensure that Camron not only understands the tasks at hand but also grasps the deeper reasoning behind every decision so that she is ready to continue ACT’s global leadership in commutators and slip rings.
With Camron’s extensive industry background and the continuous mentorship she receives, ACT is set to remain at the industry’s forefront by blending innovation with seasoned expertise.
A Legacy of Excellence
AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) is dedicated to giving back, not only to the industry but also to the local community. Beyond delivering superior-quality products, Mike Akard actively shares his technical expertise to help extend the service life of electrical apparatuses. By offering valuable guidance, ACT helps customers reduce immediate service needs while fostering goodwill with service shops.
ACT also plays a vital role in supporting the Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA). Through event sponsorships and educational webinars, the company contributes to the professional growth of international EASA members, reinforcing its commitment to advancing the industry as a whole.
Mike’s commitment also extends to his role as an elected County Commissioner, serving in his 3rd four-year term, he dedicates significant time and effort to local governance with minimal financial compensation with a focus on the importance of industrial trades education returning to local school systems to enhance apprenticeship opportunities for future generations of skilled craftsmen and women.
AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) stands as a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Under Mike Akard’s leadership, ACT has continually pushed the boundaries of quality and service, redefining industry standards while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
As ACT expands its global footprint, the company remains steadfast in its mission to deliver cutting-edge solutions, unparalleled reliability, and exceptional customer service. More than just a market leader, ACT is a driving force of progress, ensuring that its impact extends far beyond manufacturing—shaping the future of the industry and the communities it serves.
Advice for Emerging Entrepreneurs
Sharing a piece of his valuable advice to the emerging entrepreneurs, Mike shares, “Always remember that your word is your bond, so you must ALWAYS pursue maintaining honesty & integrity with every aspect of your business. Don’t ever let anyone beat you by working harder than you do. Remain steadfast in your commitment to always doing your utmost to be the best every day—no matter if it’s a good day or a bad day. Like Vince Lombardi said, “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.” Provide your customers with perfect reasons to utilize your business and take every step possible to eliminate any objections to doing business with you.”
