VGM’s Mallaro publishes history of company
By HME News Staff
Updated 1:57 PM CDT, Fri August 28, 2026
WATERLOO, Iowa – Former VGM CEO Mike Mallaro has written a book chronicling the history of the company, the stories behind its success and the lessons learned along the way. “VGM: Stories & Lessons of a Great American ESOP Company” features stories of the company’s 40-year history, including the flight that launched VGM into early success, Van Miller’s origin story, VGM’s near-fall experience in 2000 followed by a successful turnaround, the secrets to the company’s vaunted workplace culture, and the 9 Lessons Mallaro learned from Van G. Miller. “I am excited to tell the stories of VGM and share the lessons learned along the way,” said Mallaro. “In 23 years at VGM I had a front row seat to all things VGM. In the process of writing this book I had a chance to talk to many people and dig into VGM’s history with a fresh set of eyes, removed from the day-to-day. It gave me a new sense of context from which to view the company and its arc. I think readers will love the backstories, the insights and the details they never knew.” The new book also dives deep into VGM’s 2008 conversion to 100% ESOP ownership, and the life-changing impact VGM’s employee-ownership has had on VGM’s people.“I love this collection of the stories of VGM spanning 40 years of a truly great American company. This book also serves as a powerful playbook for leaders in all stages of their career journeys.” The book is available now on Amazon in both hardcover and e-book formats.
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