The manufacturing sector is undergoing significant transformations, driven by trends such as supply chain resilience, digitalization, and sustainability. As highlighted in West …
Hi, I'm Maria Long.
I help companies build smarter, stronger, and more resilient workforces.
I’ve spent my career at the intersection of human resources, operations, and workforce strategy, shaping the way organizations attract, develop, and retain talent. Now, as President of RigFab, I’m leading an incredible team dedicated to innovation, supplier development, and industry excellence.
My background spans manufacturing, defense, construction, and government contracting, where I’ve helped organizations cut costs, streamline recruitment, and build high-performing teams. I thrive on solving complex workforce challenges, whether that means scaling operations across multiple regions, enhancing supplier capabilities, or creating leadership pipelines that drive long-term success.
If you’re passionate about developing talent, optimizing operations, or preparing your workforce for the future, we should talk.
I’ve spent my career at the intersection of human resources, operations, and workforce strategy, shaping the way organizations attract, develop, and retain talent. Now, as President of RigFab, I’m leading an incredible team dedicated to innovation, supplier development, and industry excellence.
My background spans manufacturing, defense, construction, and government contracting, where I’ve helped organizations cut costs, streamline recruitment, and build high-performing teams. I thrive on solving complex workforce challenges, whether that means scaling operations across multiple regions, enhancing supplier capabilities, or creating leadership pipelines that drive long-term success.
If you’re passionate about developing talent, optimizing operations, or preparing your workforce for the future, we should talk.
My journey
I didn’t start out thinking I’d be an HR and operations leader. I began my career in the U.S. Army, where I learned the value of discipline, leadership, and adaptability. From there, I transitioned into human resources, quickly realizing that people are the core of every business success story.
Over the years, I’ve worked with some of the largest players in construction, manufacturing, and defense—helping companies recruit smarter, retain better, and build cultures that attract top talent. Along the way, I’ve led teams responsible for hiring thousands of employees, developed innovative workforce strategies, and saved companies millions by creating efficient, data-driven HR processes.
Now, as President of RigFab, I’m applying everything I’ve learned to strengthen supplier capabilities, drive operational excellence, and support national priorities. The work we do matters—not just to our company, but to the industries we serve and the communities we impact.
Over the years, I’ve worked with some of the largest players in construction, manufacturing, and defense—helping companies recruit smarter, retain better, and build cultures that attract top talent. Along the way, I’ve led teams responsible for hiring thousands of employees, developed innovative workforce strategies, and saved companies millions by creating efficient, data-driven HR processes.
Now, as President of RigFab, I’m applying everything I’ve learned to strengthen supplier capabilities, drive operational excellence, and support national priorities. The work we do matters—not just to our company, but to the industries we serve and the communities we impact.
What I do best
- Talent Strategy & Workforce Development – I design programs that develop high-performing teams and future leaders.
- Operational Leadership – I turn complex workforce challenges into streamlined, results-driven strategies.
- Supplier Development & Compliance – I help companies align with industry regulations while strengthening their supply chain.
- Change Management & Organizational Transformation – I know how to navigate rapid growth, mergers, and industry shifts while keeping employees engaged and motivated.
- Speaking & Thought Leadership – I share insights on workforce strategy, leadership, and the future of HR.
Driving Supplier Excellence & Workforce Transformation
Leading RigFab’s Mission to Transform Suppliers into Industry Leaders
Maria Long isn’t just a leader—she’s a workforce transformation expert, dedicated to helping companies meet regulatory compliance, enhance supplier capabilities, and build high-performing teams. As President of RigFab, Maria leverages decades of expertise in operational leadership, workforce training, and compliance strategy to ensure that defense, aerospace, and manufacturing suppliers don’t just meet industry standards—they exceed them.
With a career spanning HR strategy, supplier development, and large-scale operational improvement, Maria has successfully led complex workforce transformations in construction, manufacturing, and defense sectors. Her leadership is instrumental in helping suppliers achieve ISO 9001, NAVSEA, and NNS compliance while developing strong, skilled workforces.
The RigFab Difference:
Maria’s Strategic Vision
Under Maria’s leadership, RigFab is more than just a compliance consulting firm—it’s a partner in supplier transformation.
She brings a holistic approach that combines workforce training, process efficiency, and long-term compliance strategy
to ensure companies achieve sustainable success in highly regulated industries.
- Strategic Workforce Development:
Maria has built and led HR and operational teams across industries,
making her an expert in creating skilled, compliant workforces. - Supplier & Process Optimization:
Her ability to align business strategy with compliance and operational efficiency
makes her a key driver in helping suppliers succeed. - Leadership in Manufacturing & Defense:
With a strong background in supplier development and regulatory compliance,
Maria ensures RigFab’s solutions are cutting-edge and results-driven.
Let’s Build the Future of Supplier Excellence together.
Industry news & views
The U.S. Navy is currently grappling with significant challenges in maintaining its shipbuilding capabilities, a situation that poses risks to national security …
The U.S. Navy’s shipbuilding challenges have recently come under scrutiny, with lawmakers emphasizing that financial investments alone are insufficient to address the …
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What my clients say
I was honored to have Maria in a leadership role on my craft services team at Kiewit. Her ability to identify, articulate and execute on strategies is second to none in my experience. She creates high performing teams and overcomes challenges while problem solving on a daily basis. If you’re looking for a top notch professional with a great balance of strategy and execution, I highly recommend Maria!
BARN JUDD
Out of all HR leaders I’ve worked with, Maria stands out to me for her keen ability to analyze people, data, complex situations and then build a path forward. She’s a great leader with strong technical understanding and application of the HR function. Her energy, humor and dedication were always admirable traits.
MARK CARBERRY, MBA
I had the privilege of collaborating with Maria while at Kiewit, and without a doubt, she is a strategic advantage in the field of HR and Talent management. Maria's ability to align HR initiatives with overarching business goals is truly impressive. She possesses a strategic mindset that allows her to not only address immediate HR needs but also anticipate and plan for future challenges.
SEAN BEAVER
LET'S GET TO WORK
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I speak, consult, and collaborate with organizations that want to build better workforces, improve operational efficiency, and navigate industry changes with confidence.
Whether you’re looking for a keynote speaker, a strategic consultant, or a leader who understands workforce transformation, I’d love to connect.
Whether you’re looking for a keynote speaker, a strategic consultant, or a leader who understands workforce transformation, I’d love to connect.
Let’s build something great together.