Founders' Forum How David Lopez Turned $500K Into $6.5M—During a Global Crisis
In this episode, David Lopez, founder of DL Metal Design, shares his entrepreneurial journey, revealing how he turned challenges into opportunities. Co-hosted by Sam Maddula Pharm.D, this conversation highlights David’s path from a beamline operator to business owner.
David’s first business, a failed Quiznos franchise, became a $100K lesson that fueled his drive in the metal industry. Despite launching DL Metal Design in January 2020 amidst the pandemic, his lean startup model allowed him to thrive as industries recovered. By 2024, David projects $10-12 million in revenue, overcoming a 40% drop in 2023.
David’s proactive response to the downturn is a key moment in this discussion. Rather than panic, he used the opportunity to restructure his company, hire key personnel, and build a management system that could operate independently of his direct involvement.
Looking ahead, David envisions a $75-100 million diversified conglomerate. His strategy of balancing cash-flow positive units with his main company’s payment structure is key to his long-term vision.
Key Takeaways:
- How David launched a steel business just before the pandemic—and why the timing worked in his favor
- The hidden challenges of rapid growth and why working capital is everything in construction
- Smart diversification strategies that balance risk and reward in uncertain economies
- The real reason sales lagged after early success—and how he fixed it
- Why a downturn can be the perfect time to restructure for future scale
Don’t miss David’s advice on trusting yourself and acting sooner! Listen to the full episode to learn how to make your next big move in business.
About David Lopez:
David Lopez is the founder of DL Metal Design and a seasoned leader in the steel industry since 1997. He started as a beamline operator and worked his way up, eventually managing teams responsible for over $400 million in revenue. With a career spanning executive roles and industry leadership, David deeply values the mentors who have shaped him along the way. Outside of work, he is passionate about coaching youth sports and enjoys hiking, biking, and traveling with his wife and kids. With a B.S. in Business Management from Northeastern University, David brings experience, leadership, and a love for teamwork to everything he does.
Connect:
Website dlmetaldesign.com
LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/dl-metal-design
This episode is brought to you by DL Metal Design; A Turnkey Steel and Glass Subcontractor You Can Trust. Visit dlmetaldesign.com to learn more.
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