04.18.24
Fourth generation business owner now advises other entrepreneurs
Carey Schmucker
Family businesses come in all shapes and various sizes but, by definition, but have one thing in common — tradition.
Carey Schmucker, as sole owner and principal of Aegis Sales & Engineering, Inc., carries the banner for her family business into a fourth generation. As part of a new wave of local business leadership, she is also part of an advisory corps working with the Women’s Entrepreneurial Opportunity Center (WEOC) at the Northeast Indiana Innovation Center (NIIC), 3201 Stellhorn Road.
Aegis uses precision computer numerical control equipment to manufacture parts for industrial, marine, and military use. The company was founded in Fort Wayne more than 60 years ago as a partnership between Carey’s great-grandfather, Lawrence Shinabery, M.D., and her grandfather, Charles Armstrong, who had had operated his own machine shop in Kendallville. Her parents, Dorsey Roth and Joyce Armstrong, joined the business in 1972 and 1973, respectively, and Carey purchased it from them on January 1 of this year after having been involved in the operation with them for 30 years. The Aegis facility is located on Fort Wayne’s north side.
More information on the WEOC, opportunities and challenges for women in business, as well as entrepreneurship — in principle and practice — is available by contacting the NIIC at (260) 407-6442.
