02 Mar Honoring Fred Springer: A True Leader in the Industry

As a leader, Fred knows who he is and what he stands for. It is just this simple – “Get Involved and Make Things Happen”. It is this value and many others that he abides by, regardless of the circumstances he may face. He consistently communicates his values openly with the people around him, creating an atmosphere of certainty and trust. Fred’s leadership don’t create followers he grows and creates leaders.

Fred Springer has been an industry icon for many years. He has been a leader on BEMA committees and the board of directors where he led efforts like increasing membership and creating opportunities at international tradeshows. Fred played a significant role in the creation of BEMA Tech and since 2013, Fred has represented BEMA on the IBIE committee where he is the chairman of the Technology task force. Fred represented BEMA on the American Bakers Association (ABA) board of directors for three years and was a member of the American Society of Baking (ASB) executive committee in the 1980’s. He has also served on the boards of directors for the American Institute of Baking (AIB) and the Allied Trades of the Baking Industry (ATBI).

Fred’s approach to success is simple, “Get involved and make something happen.” He made many things happen during his tenure with BEMA including inviting bakers to attend BEMA’s Convention, instituting the Lifetime Achievement Award and helping to create BEMA Tech. Fred applies this approach to his community as well, especially regarding veterans. He works to hire veterans and makes active duty easier on his employees. Most recently he organized “Operation Military Care Package” which challenged the industry and others to send care packages to soldiers abroad.

The Board of Directors honored Fred Springer, President of Burford Corp. with its 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award on Sunday, February 25, 2018 at its Summit meetings. Springer served as chairman of BEMA in 2001 and continues to serve as a BEMA representative on the IBIE committee.