Celebrating the life and contributions of the late Bill Little, cherished owner of Quam.
In a heartfelt announcement, it was revealed that William "Bill" Little, owner and president of Quam, a renowned American-based commercial loudspeaker manufacturer, passed away peacefully at his home in Columbia, Missouri, on June 28, 2025.
Bill Little's 27-year tenure with the US Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Foundation was marked by unwavering dedication and visionary leadership. His influence extended beyond Quam, as he played a pivotal role in the growth of the National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA), now the leading resource and advocate for commercial integrators.
Bill's journey began as a determined young salesman at South Bend Lathe. In 1970, he joined his family's company, Quam Nichols, where his visionary leadership truly blossomed. Under his guidance, Quam flourished into one of the last American-based commercial loudspeaker manufacturers of its kind.
Bill's impact on the professional audio industry will ripple far beyond his years, contributing significantly to the Quam legacy. As chairman of the Chamber Board (1998-1999) and later chair of the National Chamber Foundation, he helped guide the historic transition of four legacy affiliates into what is now the unified US. Chamber Foundation.
Bill served as the dedicated chair of the US Chamber Foundation until 2021. His service extended to the Electronic Industries Association, where he served as chairman in 1988. Bill's influence was felt in every aspect of the industry, inspiring those around him to reach higher, work harder, and dream bigger.
Bill Little was more than just a business leader; he was a mentor, a trusted friend, and a deeply caring individual who deeply cared about every employee at Quam. His passing has left an immeasurable void in Quam and the professional audio industry.
In honour of Bill's life and legacy, memorial donations in his memory may be directed to the Central Missouri Humane Society. Bill's memory will live on, not only in the impact he had on the professional audio industry but also in the countless lives he touched. He was truly a legend whose passion, leadership, and love for the industry will continue to inspire generations to come.
The manufacturing industry mourns the loss of Bill Little, a visionary leader who, as the owner and president of Quam, significantly contributed to the growth of the commercial loudspeaker industry. His influence extended further to the finance sector, serving as chair of the US Chamber Foundation and the Electronic Industries Association, shaping policies and driving progress within the business world.
