Al Frink
Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services, U.S. Department of Commerce
Al Frink is the first Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services, serving as chief advocate for the U.S. manufacturing sector within the federal government and brings 30 years of private-sector experience to his new position. As a small business executive, Frink built an internationally recognized carpet manufacturing company, Fabrica International, a carpet manufacturer from Orange County, Calif.
As the Assistant Secretary, Frink will advocate, coordinate and implement policies that will help U.S. manufacturers compete globally. Some of the challenges he will focus on include: o Enhancing government's focus on manufacturing competitiveness;
* Creating the conditions for economic growth and manufacturing investment;
* Promoting open markets and a level playing field;
* Lowering the cost of manufacturing in the United States;
* Investing in innovation; and
* Strengthening education, retraining, and economic diversification.
Frink co-founded Fabrica in 1974 with a $100,000 Small Business Administration loan. Fabrica develops, manufactures and sells high-end luxury carpet and rugs to retailers, interior designers, furniture stores and other markets, and is considered the best in class. The company, which started with five employees, now employs more than 400 individuals and has never experience major layoffs. Within the carpet industry, his company distinguished itself through innovation and quality product. All of Fabrica's operations - including manufacturing and distribution - are located in the United States. The company was acquired by The Dixie Group in 2000.
He is a champion of export. As his company's chief advocate and salesperson, Frink opened foreign markets and took responsibility for all international accounts. He understands both the challenges and opportunities facing manufacturing and will be a credible voice to others in the sector, particularly small and medium-size businesses.
Frink is also a committed and dedicated volunteer and public servant, particularly on cultural and educational issues within the Hispanic and Native American communities.
Community and Volunteer Work
* Former Member, Exporters' Textile Advisory Committee, The Department of Commerce
* Former Member, Board of Directors - The Latino Coalition
* Member, Orange County Hispanic 100
* Member, Board of Directors - YMCA Orange County Metro
* Member, Board of Directors - Pacific Symphony Orchestra
* Member, Board of Directors, Lincoln Club - Orange County
* Member, Advisory Board, Carpet and Rug Institute
Awards and Achievements
* In 2004, Frink was inducted into the prestigious Small Business Administration Hall of Fame.
* Silver Trumpet Award, the industry's most prestigious award from the Southern California Floor Covering Association.
* Distinguished Service Award, Native American Preparatory School (NAPS).
