Ashley Webb knows what it takes to lead under pressure. As a West Point graduate and U.S. Army veteran, he spent eight years on active duty with deployments to Bosnia and Iraq, followed by 12 years with the Ohio National Guard. Through his military career, he learned that resilience, grit, and adaptability are the keys to overcoming obstacles—traits that would later shape his journey as an entrepreneur.
When Webb retired in 2013, he faced a new challenge: reinventing himself in the civilian world. He purchased Paradigm Industrial a manufacturing company specializing in precision machining, welding, fabrication, and custom design engineering.
True to his military roots, Webb embraced a lead-by-example mentality. Instead of just managing from the top, he enrolled in a basic machining course to understand his employees’ work firsthand. This hands-on leadership approach fostered trust, strengthened teamwork, and prepared him to tackle the challenges of running a business.
Like many first-time business owners, Webb knew he needed guidance. That’s when he turned to the SBA and his local Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC). The SBA provided mentorship, training, and funding to help him navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.
By working with his local VBOC, Webb gained insights from successful business mentors, and with SBA-backed loans, he secured the funding to grow, like:
✅ SBA 7(a) Loan Program – Helped provide working capital and financial stability in the early stages of business growth.
✅ SBA 504 Loan Program – Enabled him to invest in long-term, fixed-rate financing to expand his operations and purchase major fixed assets.
In 2020, Webb made a bold move—he acquired Vulcan Tool Company. This acquisition expanded Paradigm Industrial’s capabilities, bringing cutting-edge 3D printing, installation, parts fabrication, and engineering services.
Despite the challenges of entrepreneurship, Webb’s military-honed discipline, strategic thinking, and perseverance allowed him to lead his company through this major expansion successfully. Today, Paradigm Industrial has grown to 24 employees and generates over $3 million in annual revenue.
For Webb, success isn’t just about building a profitable business—it’s about making a lasting impact.
As President of Paradigm Industrial, he invests in the next generation through an Explorer Post program, which gives high school students hands-on exposure to skilled trades in manufacturing, engineering, and STEM careers.
He is also a strong advocate for veteran employment and workforce development initiatives, helping other transitioning service members find opportunities in business and manufacturing.
If you’re a veteran dreaming of business ownership, you don’t have to go it alone. The SBA’s VBOCs, SCORE mentorship program, and funding options like 7(a) and 504 loans can help you build and grow your business.
Visit www.sba.gov for more resources.
