The Power of Opportunity
Devin Howard’s Journey from Manpower Employee to Permanent Management
In 2018, Devin Howard’s life was at a turning point. Having just moved back to the area from Georgia, he was working in a car shop and searching for a stable career. With a baby on the way, Devin told his fiancée that he’d get a factory job before his son was born if he didn’t land another job. But as the weeks passed without a promising opportunity, his frustration grew.
That’s when he turned to Manpower.
“I wasn’t expecting it to be a fast process,” Devin recalls. “But within two days, Manpower had me placed at SaverSystems.”
His first day at SaverSystems was mainly spent doing entry-level work, like labeling containers, rolling tanks, and performing tasks that often go unnoticed. But Devin had already set his sights higher. In fact, he told his supervisor, “I’m going to take your job one day.”
With determination and a strong work ethic, Devin did every task he was given, and within less than a year, SaverSystems hired him permanently. In 2023, he was promoted to Plant 1 Production Manager, and by March 2025, he became the company’s Plant Production Manager.
Building a Career at an Employee-Owned Company
SaverSystems is best known for its ChimneySaver products, developed by a firefighter to refurbish chimneys from the inside and prevent fires. Their product, Heat Shield, is a best seller among chimney cleaning professionals. The company also produces DEFY deck stains, cleaners, and other specialty products.
But what truly sets SaverSystems apart is its employee-owned structure. Instead of selling the business, founder John Meredith allowed employees to buy in. Today, employees have an equal share and voice in the company’s future.
Devin’s role as the Production Manager involves checking forecasts, planning production, ordering raw materials, and working alongside his team. He leads by example through servant leadership.
Paying It Forward with Manpower
Now a co-owner, Devin hasn’t forgotten where his journey started. He continues to partner with Manpower to recruit new talent for SaverSystems.
“Manpower listened to exactly what I wanted,” Devin says. “They’re very good at putting people in places they want to be. And with that come opportunities that some people would never expect - like myself. As long as you’re willing to work and tell them what you want, nine times out of ten they’ll find something that fits you.”
Through his work at SaverSystems, Devin has learned skills he never imagined, like manufacturing, mechanics, and engineering solutions - and he credits Manpower for helping to open that door.
“Manpower was one of the best places I ever worked with,” he says. “They helped me get to places in my life I never thought I would be.”
Are you ready to turn over a new leaf in your career? Get started by filling out an application either in person at a Manpower Office or online at www.mprichmond.com.