Karen

Norheim

One of the major milestones in my life was the decision to work for my father. At the time, I wondered ‘How fun could manufacturing be?’ It’s been more than 23 years since I made one of the best decisions of my life. Through my work with American Crane and Equipment Corporation, I found my passion for manufacturing. I’m an active supporter of STEM programs as well as programs that support women in the manufacturing field.

American Crane & Equipment Corporation is recognized as a leader in the design and manufacture of electric overhead traveling cranes, wire rope hoists, and custom-engineered lifting equipment.

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Karen Norheim – President & CEO,
American Crane & Equipment Corporation

The top image shows a woman standing outdoors on a rooftop with industrial structures, posed confidently with hands on hips and smiling, against a sunset. The bottom image depicts four women standing indoors in front of a draped curtain, smiling, with one woman holding an award or trophy, all dressed in professional attire.

Karen Norheim is a passionate advocate for manufacturing and the second-generation leader of American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO). As President & CEO, she has built on her father’s legacy while shaping a modern company culture rooted in the mantra “Always Lift. Never Quit.”

Under her leadership, ACECO has grown into an internationally recognized provider of cranes, hoists, and material-handling equipment. Karen describes her role as that of a “gardener,” cultivating people and culture, while embracing the resilience of a “Viking” to navigate business challenges.

A strong voice for U.S. manufacturing, Karen mentors future leaders and champions careers in the industry, especially for women. She frequently speaks at schools, industry events, and professional panels, creating what she calls her “ripple effect”—inspiring the next generation to pursue careers and leadership roles in manufacturing.

Karen also leads ACECO’s digital transformation, launching the company’s Innovation Lab to bring cutting-edge technologies to customers. Initiatives such as the Smart Crane IoT System and Machine Health IoT (MHIoT) Device were designed to deliver practical insights at a fraction of the cost and complexity of traditional systems, making IoT accessible to small and mid-sized businesses.

projects

  • American Crane & Equipment Corporation has been a trusted source of high-quality specialty lifting equipment for over 50 years. As a leading manufacturer of overhead crane systems, hoists, and material-handling equipment, American Crane is committed to delivering top-quality products while providing superior customer service in an industry that does not have room for mistakes.

    Visit American Crane & Equipment Corporation.

  • Always Lifting with Karen Norheim is a video podcast exploring leadership, innovation, wellness, heritage, and grit — all through the lens of curiosity, resilience, and storytelling. Hosted by Karen Norheim, CEO of American Crane & Equipment Corporation, each episode dives into personal insights, leadership philosophies, and big ideas shaping your world.

  • A journey of self-discovery teaches a boy lessons of knowledge, truth, and goodness.

    When a young boy named Woodsprout comes of age, his father gifts him a treasure: an intricately handcrafted book bound in fine red leather with the instruction that he fill up the pages with his life’s story. The ensuing journey has ‘Sprout’ on a quest for words, wisdom, and adventure—and the meaning of life.

    Now available on Amazon

booking

Karen Norheim is a highly accomplished speaker sought after for her expertise in various fields. Her engaging and insightful talks have captivated audiences around the world. If you are interested in booking Karen Norheim for speaking engagements, please feel free to reach out to her directly through the contact information provided on her website.

Whether it's a corporate event, conference, or educational program, Karen's dynamic presence and wealth of knowledge are sure to leave a lasting impact on your audience. Don't miss the opportunity to have Karen Norheim inspire and educate your attendees.

The Always Lifting Podcast

Always Lifting with Karen Norheim is a video podcast exploring leadership, innovation, wellness, heritage, and grit — all through the lens of curiosity, resilience, and storytelling. Hosted by Karen Norheim, CEO of American Crane & Equipment Corporation, each episode dives into personal insights, leadership philosophies, and big ideas shaping your world. What does it mean to lift? Whether it’s lifting people, ideas, communities, or ourselves, these conversations are designed to expand perspectives and inspire growth. Whether you’re a leader, innovator, maker, or lifelong learner, you’ll find thought-provoking conversations to lift your perspective and fuel your journey.

Subscribe to join us — and remember to Always Lift.