Meet Mal Maher

We were lucky to catch up with Mal Maher recently and have shared our conversation below.

Mal, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

My resilience was shaped by my parents who instilled in me a relentless drive and a deep sense of responsibility to others. In our home, max effort in everything was expected and excellence was the starting point. Score 30 in a basketball game, why’d you throw the ball away 3 times? Earn an A- on a test, why wasn’t it an A? Their message became clearer as I got older: keep your foot on the pedal and never get comfortable. I had some fairly serious health issues as a kid and my Mom always said that taught me resilience and compassion. Between my Dad’s unrivaled generosity and my Mom always looking out for others first, it shaped me. Whether in business, relationships, or personal battles, I knew quitting wasn’t an option. I didn’t have the luxury to slow down or think small—because I was raised to believe that you push forward and lift others as you go.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

After serving in WWII, my grandfather and uncle founded our company in 1947. Over the past 78 years, NC has remained focused on delivering precision sewing machines backed by our hallmark commitment to same-day service. The “not now, right now” mentality continues to define what sets NC apart in the industry.

One of my most meaningful contributions has been expanding our reach into new sewing sectors, including synthetic turf, netting, aircraft interiors, and automotive upholstery. While less relevant today, exhibiting at new trade shows in the early 2000’s and building relationships there played a key role in our long-term growth.

In 2025, we proudly launched our 7GEN Millennium Carpet Binder, alongside two new long arm sewing machines designed for heavy-duty applications. All machines are showcased in action on our award-winning website, with promotional content shared across socials including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

True to our roots, giving back remains central to our mission. Over the years, our family has donated dozens of sewing machines to nonprofit organizations, military charities, and upholstery shops.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Relentless- from my parents

A passion for coming through for people- Charles Shelton from Aircraft Interior Products heaped praise on me and how well we served his sewing workroom. A tremendous mentor and father figure…Charles treated me like a son reinforced how important it is to come through for your clients.

No fear- My father had no fear, always took chances in business…if you’re not swinging, you’re not hitting. If you miss, so what. Swing away and don’t hesitate.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

Prayer and faith in God is has provided me with a strong foundation. I was a big worrier and since I leaning on God, that peace without panic has made business and obstacles so much easier to navigate.

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