Ferrera’s leadership recognized the need for a paperless ERP solution. After considering building their own system, they adopted ProShop, which consolidated scheduling, inventory, serial number tracking, and estimating into one integrated platform. The transition eliminated redundant spreadsheets, improved traceability, and gave machinists confidence in their instructions and materials. This confidence translated directly into speed and throughput, reducing delays and boosting productivity.
Quality assurance, once a bottleneck, was transformed. Ferrera expanded from two to eight CMM machines, while ProShop scheduled inspections and integrated static checks to reduce cycle times. Parts no longer piled up waiting for inspection, and audits became smoother, with AS9100 reviews shortened from five days to two. Auditors praised ProShop’s robustness, reinforcing customer trust in Ferrera’s processes.
Culturally, ProShop became the backbone of Ferrera’s operations. Cody, now Director of Systems and Process Engineering, emphasized how the system fostered accountability and teamwork, replacing endless meetings and email chains with a single source of truth. Employees embraced ownership, documenting setups with photos and detailed instructions, further strengthening the company’s culture of continuous improvement.
On a personal level, Cody noted that while his hours remain long due to Ferrera’s growth, his stress is far more manageable. ProShop allows problems to “live in the system” rather than in his head, reducing the burden he once carried home. He believes that without ProShop, Ferrera would have reverted to chaos, unable to sustain its current scale. Instead, the company now thrives with streamlined scheduling, robust quality control, and reliable traceability.
ProShop proved pivotal, offering built-in AS9100 compliance and integrated tools for audits, documentation, and quality management. Though the shift was a cultural shock, it allowed Faircloth to expand from 10 employees to nearly 40, with advanced CNC, Swiss, and five-axis machines producing complex aerospace assemblies. Lessons in standardization and systematization became critical as the stakes grew higher with expensive equipment, and ProShop’s tooling and inspection modules helped prevent costly mistakes while streamlining operations.
The company’s success has also been defined by its people. David takes pride in hiring individuals with little experience and training them into skilled machinists and leaders. Employees like Brandon grew into pivotal roles, while mentors like Brian introduced systems that improved efficiency and quality. Even during crises, such as David’s near-fatal accident in 2023, the staff kept the business running seamlessly, proving the strength of both the systems and the team.
Today, Faircloth Machine Shop stands as a testament to persistence and tenacity. From humble beginnings with manual equipment and paper records, it has evolved into a certified aerospace manufacturer with advanced technology and a strong workforce. David’s philosophy is simple: never give up, adapt to change, and keep building systems that support growth. With ProShop as a trusted partner and a dedicated team, Faircloth has become a thriving business that sustains livelihoods and strengthens American manufacturing.
Chris didn’t choose Catamount for what it was. He chose it for what it could be. He came in with a 3, 5, and 10-year plan built around three pillars: advanced technology, smart automation, and rigorous certification. Over the next few years, that strategy became reality. Catamount migrated from clipboards to servers, from manual workflows to digital structure, from three-axis machines to three-plus-two automation cells, and from scattered documentation to ITAR-compliant, audit-ready systems. They added robots, upgraded Mastercam, implemented High QA, achieved AS9100 and CMMC 2.0 compliance, and positioned themselves for the aerospace work they knew they could win.
But the biggest shift came from adopting ProShop and building a fully interconnected architecture. Estimates flowed cleanly into parts, quotes, and work orders. Inspectors worked inside a single source of truth. FAIs became a one-click process. And the shop finally had the operational backbone it needed to support complex assemblies, dense specs, and multi-system data flow without drowning in rework or duplicate effort.
Today, Catamount runs fewer people than when Chris bought it, yet they produce more, respond faster, and scale smarter. They’ve added multiple aerospace customers, landed significant prototype work headed for production, and have built a foundation capable of supporting explosive growth in 2026 and beyond.
This episode isn’t just about technology adoption. It’s about what happens when a small shop embraces enterprise-level thinking, builds systems before scaling, and gets every person aligned behind a clear, communicated vision of the future.
In just two years, Andrew and Gabby Devroy have helped transform the company Andrew’s parents built in a garage into a 30-person aerospace and medical machining powerhouse, all while raising three kids and navigating the complexities of a second-generation business. Their approach isn’t about chasing work, it’s about choosing the right work, building systems that scale, and creating a culture where data drives decisions instead of putting out fires.
When they joined Prosper-Tech, the team was running AS9100 audits and daily operations off clipboards. There was tribal knowledge everywhere, no visibility into upcoming sales, and no clear way to plan capacity. The business needed more than “working harder”, it needed a backbone. Implementing ProShop became the catalyst that shifted everything: transparent workflows, cleaner scheduling, predictable margins, empowered machinists, and a level of trust with customers that translated into real growth.
In this episode, Andrew and Gabby share how they balanced succession planning with rapid expansion, how they chose the markets they wanted to dominate, why they embraced batch production, and why the tooling module became one of their biggest early wins.
They also reveal how real-time data has helped double margins, smooth out cash cycles, and make strategic equipment decisions, including the moment one machine type changed everything. This is a story about scaling thoughtfully, leading intentionally, and building a shop that’s ready for the next decade, not just the next order.
Their urban location was a strategic choice, allowing them to tap into a younger, more diverse talent pool and stand out from suburban competitors. Matt recounts hiring Tom, a retail worker with no machining background, who quickly adapted to running a five-axis machine thanks to APW’s modern systems. This hiring model, focused on potential and attitude over experience, has proven successful and even attracted seasoned professionals eager to work with cutting-edge equipment.
A cornerstone of APW’s strategy is its early investment in ProShop ERP, which has helped them avoid the inefficiencies common in older shops. Drawing inspiration from Matt’s father (who launched a machine shop with ERP in the 1990s with a design that was less about machines and more about systems) he set out to start a shop that solved common industry problems. APW uses ProShop to manage tooling, job costing, and quality control. Their team eliminated spreadsheets, built custom Chrome extensions for tool management, and integrated CAM data to streamline operations. These systems have enabled APW to operate efficiently and scale without excessive overhead.
Matt emphasizes that while job costing is important, his primary focus is on daily throughput and machine-level performance. ProShop’s integration with financial tools like QuickBooks has exceeded expectations, allowing APW to maintain clean financials while keeping operations agile. By starting fresh and embracing modern tools, APW has built a lean, scalable business model that serves both its community and the broader manufacturing industry.
Matt reflects on the support he received from industry peers and expresses a desire to pay it forward. Though he acknowledges the challenges of starting a machine shop, he remains proud of APW’s progress and optimistic about its future.
Under Damon’s leadership, the shop transitioned from paper-based workflows to a fully digital system using ProShop ERP. This shift enabled better planning, streamlined operations, and empowered machinists to work independently. The implementation of AS9100 certification was a turning point, unlocking new opportunities with aerospace clients and leading to the company’s largest-ever purchase order (PO), securing half of next year’s revenue.
Damon emphasizes the importance of investing in quality systems, hiring the right people, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The shop now operates with a robust quality department, a clean and efficient workspace, and a forward-thinking mindset. Relationships with other local shops, like , helped inspire the transition and reinforce the value of collaboration in the industry.
ProShop has become more than just software; it’s the backbone of Snider Precision’s operating system. It supports everything from inspections and work instructions to planning and quoting, allowing Damon to focus on strategic growth. The team is still expanding its use of modules like tooling management, aiming for full integration and vendor-supported inventory systems.
Snider Precision’s journey reflects a generational shift in leadership, where embracing change and technology has transformed the business. With a strong foundation, a growing backlog, and family members involved in operations, Snider Precision is well-positioned for continued success and serves as an inspiring example for other shops considering similar paths.
Jeff Justesen tells how the transition to Pro Shop was facilitated with onboarding across departments. Floor staff quickly adapted to basic functions like scheduling and clocking in/out, while deeper features such as operation components and part check info were gradually adopted. A phased rollout allowed Oakdale to maintain customer continuity while shifting new work orders into the new system.
One of the greatest improvements was in lead time reduction. In 2022, the average time from work order creation to shipment was 4.3 weeks; by 2024, it had dropped to 2.7 weeks. This gain was attributed to parallel processing, better scheduling, and proactive quality planning. The ability to move jobs between machines, track tooling, and communicate across departments created a more responsive operation.
The software also strengthened collaboration between office and shop floor teams. Messaging tools, process development modules, and structured feedback loops gave machinists and logistics staff a voice in continuous improvement. Employees now feel connected, and hiring has become easier thanks to the clarity Pro Shop brings to onboarding and training.
Pro Shop allowed Oakdale’s management to shift focus to strategic growth. Instead of patching recurring issues, they now concentrate on market expansion, customer relationships, and long-term planning. The system’s ability to capture tribal knowledge and standardize best practices has been critical in preserving expertise and preparing for generational transitions. With over 100 machines and just 65 employees, Oakdale now runs lights-out manufacturing across multiple shifts, maximizing output with minimal staffing.
Jeff credits Pro Shop with enabling their evolution from a paper-driven shop to a data-driven operation. The ERP system has become the backbone of their business, supporting everything from quoting and scheduling to inspection and training. As they continue to grow and diversify, Oakdale sees Pro Shop not just as a tool but as a strategic partner in building the future of precision manufacturing.
However, when the oil market collapsed in late 2015, the company pivoted fully into firearms manufacturing, launching its own product line under the Rise Armament brand. By 2016, they had phased out contract work entirely and focused exclusively on producing their own products. Since then, the company has experienced steady growth, now employing around 53 people, including 30 in manufacturing. Matt shares how his background as a manufacturing engineer and his desire to build something meaningful led him to entrepreneurship.
He once believed that philanthropy would only be possible after achieving financial success, but he soon realized that even while scaling a business, there were ways to make a difference. With many veterans on their team, Rise Armament began supporting organizations like Folds of Honor, Wounded Warrior Project, and Equal Ops. Altruism became one of their core company values.
Throughout the conversation, Matt reflects on the challenges of transitioning from contract work to brand ownership, the pros and cons of each model, and the importance of staying mission-focused. The company’s core values, originally based on Matt’s personal beliefs, evolved through team input and now actively guide hiring and performance reviews, reinforcing culture and accountability.
He also highlights the value of business coaching and mentorship, noting that readiness to accept feedback is crucial for growth. He also discusses the role of ProShop software in helping manage growth and operations. Matt explains how the team evolved from relying on informal knowledge and instinct to operating through systems and data, enabling more consistent execution and faster decision-making.
He stresses that ProShop is not just a transactional ERP but a full business system tailored for manufacturers. By embedding quality management, training, and process visibility into daily work, it served as a scalable playbook for the company’s growth.
Founded in 1983 by Kellen Montpetit’s grandfather, the company has long served the oil and gas sector, though recent efforts aim to diversify into aerospace and other industries.
Kellen, now part of the ownership group, and Andrew Sulak, a longtime employee who feels like family, share their journey of modernizing the business while preserving its legacy.
Despite its size and complexity, the company maintains a close-knit culture, with many employees wearing multiple hats and contributing across departments.
Kellen and Drew both came from non-manufacturing backgrounds but found their place in the business through a mix of opportunity, burnout, and a desire for stability.
A major turning point came with the decision to implement ProShop ERP. The previous system was paper-heavy, lacked quality management integration, and couldn’t support remote access.
ProShop changed all that, streamlining tasks, improving traceability, and enabling digital operations. The transition was challenging but ultimately freed up the team to focus on strategic growth.
Quoting and estimating have also become more strategic. The post-COVID landscape has thinned out local competition, increasing demand and forcing Gurecky to handle more work in-house.
Their “first in, first out” philosophy ensures fairness and reliability, and their commitment to on-time delivery remains strong. Customer relationships have deepened thanks to ProShop’s transparency.
Clients are impressed by the system’s accessibility and real-time data, which helps resolve discrepancies and build trust. The ERP system has become the foundation for future growth. The shift to ProShop also sparked a cultural transformation.
Transparency and collaboration have increased, bridging the gap between the shop floor and the front office. Veteran machinists, initially resistant to change, have slowly embraced the system, especially as they see their feedback valued and documented through process development tools.
Younger employees, more accustomed to digital systems, adapted quickly. The team now feels more unified, with clearer communication and shared goals. Ultimately, Gurecky Manufacturing’s journey reflects the power of thoughtful modernization.
By blending legacy values with cutting-edge tools, they’ve positioned themselves for continued success, being ready to pass the torch to the next generation while staying true to the principles that built the business.
Dan Fifer, Founder of Lane4 Precision, shares his unconventional journey into manufacturing after a 20-year career in medical device engineering. Frustrated by long lead times in R&D, he set out to build a high-performance machine shop to support fast-paced development cycles.
Despite having no prior machining experience, he took a leap of faith. He sold his house to buy a Citizen L20 Swiss screw machine after learning his parts required that level of precision. Launching the shop was a risk, but momentum grew quickly.
Dan started part-time while still working at his previous job and initially billed only a few hours. However, once fellow engineers discovered his capabilities, demand increased rapidly. Over the next seven years, Lane4 Precision produced over 1,000 unique parts (mostly tiny, complex components for medical R&D).
His team became known for tackling difficult, low-volume jobs that other shops often declined. From the outset, Dan relied on ProShop ERP to establish a structured and professional operation.
With no preconceived shop habits, ProShop provided the architecture to scale from prototype work to full production. He appreciated its flexibility, allowing users to engage with only the features they needed, while offering full traceability, inspection tracking, tool monitoring, and streamlined workflows.
As the shop grew, so did its capabilities. Dan added machines based on customer needs. Even though he originally considered writing his own shop software, Dan realized ProShop offered a more digital and complete systematic solution, helping to instill confidence in customers with its robust quality tracking.
Despite technical and business demands, the biggest struggle for Dan has been balancing health and family life with work. He reflects that while the work is rewarding and the customer appreciation is fulfilling, the long hours and intensity of running a shop can take a toll.
He credits ProShop with saving him from drowning in paperwork, calling it a 24/7 executive assistant that keeps the business running smoothly. He appreciates how ProShop has aided in the independence and pride that he’s found in creating a high-functioning operation accidentally, and from scratch.
Paramount Machine, based in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a well-established and highly diversified machine shop with around 70 employees and a wide range of machining capabilities. They specialize in CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine work, including complex operations such as multi-axis and five-axis machining, and serve multiple industries, particularly the medical, defense, and x-ray equipment manufacturing sectors.
John Rausch is the general manager at Paramount Machine with a background in machine tool sales, while Eric Van Orden, the founder’s son, started from the ground up and now plays a technical leadership role. Their long-term commitment and hands-on experience reflect the company’s strong internal culture and emphasis on relationships.
The shop faced challenges with its previous ERP system, including limited visibility, reliance on printed travelers, and inefficient time tracking. These issues affected job scheduling, on-time delivery, and material tracking. Their decision to switch to ProShop stemmed from the need for better visibility, process control, and integration across departments.
Implementing ProShop has not been easy. It required an adjustment from both the office and the shop floor staff. However, they began seeing improvements in scheduling, tracking, and reducing manual errors. The team values features like live part tracking and digital documentation, which reduce the need for physical traveler copies and cut down confusion.
Overall, the transition has been a learning process, but one that Paramount believes is worthwhile. John told me, “It has been hard, but for the right reasons”. Paramount Machine continues to invest in its people, technology, and customer relationships. Their emphasis on continuous improvement, collaboration, and adaptability positions them well for future growth and innovation.
LinkedIn: Eric Van Orden – https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-van-orden-378795314/
LinkedIn: John Rausch – https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rausch-21449261/
Paramount Machine -https://www.paramount-machine.com/
End 2 End Manufacturing didn’t start with high-tech machines or enterprise systems. It began as a contract welding shop focused on responsiveness, trust, and doing right by the customer.
As the company grew, adding CNC machining, design, and prototyping capabilities, it became clear that tribal knowledge and whiteboards couldn’t sustain the pace. That’s where Gioni Bianchini, General Manager, saw an opportunity for real change.
In this episode, Gioni Bianchini, the General Manager at End 2 End Manufacturing, shares the story of that transformation, how a lean but ambitious team evolved their culture, their operations, and their entire workflow by adopting ProShop ERP.
But it wasn’t just about new software. It was about visibility, alignment, and creating space for machinists and fabricators to take real ownership of their work. From improving accountability to breaking down silos, Gioni reflects on what it took to guide his team through change while keeping their hands-on values intact.
Whether you’re at the beginning of your digital journey or deep into scaling challenges, this conversation offers a grounded, honest look at what real manufacturing transformation looks like in practice.
LinkedIn – Gioni Bianchini: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gioni-bianchini-4a015b18/
End 2 End Manufacturing – www.e2emfg.com
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Shops can lose money quietly due to missed deadlines, rushed shipping, and confusion that no one wants to admit. The real issue is often buried in scattered paper records and knowledge locked in one person’s head. It feels normal until survival is at risk.
At Serbin Machining, there was no pretending things would improve on their own. New owners saw the chaos immediately and decided to invest in ProShop ERP before even closing the deal. The goal was to replace guesswork with clear, live tracking of every job.
Paper records and disconnected spreadsheets were out. Instead, the team could see exactly what was due, where materials were located, and how work was progressing in real time. That level of visibility turned daily operations from crisis management into smooth planning.
Revenue didn’t just grow, it quadrupled in 18 months with almost the same workforce. Formal training, clear roles, and second-shift expansion became possible. Customer calls dropped from 90 minutes to 15 because the answers were ready.
ProShop delivered more than software. It enforced accountability, streamlined communication, and made growth sustainable. For any shop hitting its limit without knowing why, this story proves transparency isn’t optional; it’s how you stay alive and scale.
LinkedIn – Serbin Machining: https://www.linkedin.com/company/serbin-machining-inc-/about/
Serbin Machining – https://www.serbinmachining.com/
Most shop owners don’t realize how much the structure and feel of their shop impact everything, including employee morale, customer trust, and long-term growth. Caught up in production chaos, they overlook the deeper issues holding them back: clunky systems, reactive decision-making, and a culture built on fear rather than trust.
Tim Rousseau changed all that. He built Above All CNC to be clean, safe, and forward-thinking intentionally.
His big shift? Ditching paper and guesswork for ProShop ERP. It gave his growing shop the structure it needed to handle complexity without the stress.
Now, every part of his operation, from quoting to inspection, is consistent, trackable, and efficient. Audits go smoother. Employees take pride in their work. Customers keep coming back.
If you’re still running your shop off spreadsheets and gut feel, this episode might just be your turning point.
Some machine shop owners come into the industry late. Adam Verdon was born into it.
From shredding paper in the office as a toddler to operating machines as a teenager, Adam grew up at G.V. Industries, the precision machining company his father founded in 1978 after returning from Vietnam. Today, he’s not just leading the company, he’s reshaping it.
With a deep respect for GV’s history and a clear vision for its future, Adam set out to modernize the shop from the inside out. That meant more than swapping paper travelers for terminals or spreadsheets for software. It meant earning trust, building buy-in, and creating a culture where machinists and their ideas matter.
When the team embraced ProShop ERP, they didn’t just get a new system. They got visibility, clarity, and ownership. Tribal knowledge became shared knowledge. Workflow friction disappeared. And the change didn’t come through top-down mandates, it came from listening.
This episode is about more than digital transformation. It’s about what happens when the next generation takes the wheel and drives with both head and heart.
LinkedIn – Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-verdon-6b4292267
G.V. Industries – gvindustries.biz
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Plenty of people still picture manufacturing as dark, dirty, and dangerous. That image sticks, even though the real day-to-day inside many shops couldn’t look more different. But when perception lags behind reality, it’s no wonder few young people see themselves in roles like toolmaker or machinist.
Darryl Gratrix didn’t grow up knowing he’d land in the trades. He went the university route first. Nearly three decades into his career today, he’s running production at Molded Precision Components and doing everything he can to ensure the next generation sees what’s possible.
That includes opening the shop doors to students, teachers, and guidance counselors, people who’ve rarely had a reason to set foot in a modern manufacturing facility. For many, a single tour flips a switch. One teacher left inspired enough to organize an event that brought 300 students face to face with local vendors.
While he’s helping shift the narrative around skilled trades, Darryl’s also keeping a 15-person toolroom running at full tilt. And that got easier with a new ERP system, ProShop, that replaced clunky interfaces and manual entry with faster, clearer processes. It didn’t just save time; it gave the team better data to manage and improve.
So yes, this is a story about skilled trades. But it’s also about what happens when one person decides to be visible in an often hidden industry, on the shop floor, in the school system, and in young people’s choices about their future.
LinkedIn – Darryl: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-gratrix-373827309
Molded Precision Components – https://www.mpccomponents.com/
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Shop owners are so deep in the daily grind that they don’t see how outdated systems are quietly setting limits on their business. When processes feel “good enough,” it’s easy to miss how much time, money, and opportunity are leaking out of a business every day.
Ben Dunn didn’t come from machining, he came from hospital administration. And that fresh perspective made it impossible for him to ignore the old habits inside the shop he acquired. Walking into a company still running on a DOS-based computer and stacks of paper, he saw what longtime owners sometimes can’t: without a clear schedule, accurate data, and systems that live beyond a single person’s memory, the business had no path to real growth or long-term survival.
Once Blueprint Advanced Manufacturing embraced modern systems, everything changed; on-time delivery skyrocketed, employee roles became clear, and the company became far more resilient. Owners will start to see that fixing what feels “good enough” isn’t just a tech upgrade, it’s the difference between a company that struggles and one that thrives across generations.
Ben Dunn on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-dunn-9a8540b4/
Blueprint Advanced Manufacturing – https://blueprintadvancedmfg.com/
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Running a shop often means wearing every hat and holding every answer. For Andy Reinwald at Ripley Machine, that translated to years of nonstop work, nearly no time off, and the weight of every open order living in his head. It was sustainable until it wasn’t.
Things came to a head after a rough year in 2016. Revenue was slipping, customer service was lagging, and the company was running on outdated systems. Andy knew he couldn’t keep leading the shop this way and expect different results.
That realization kicked off a steady climb. Andy pursued ISO certification, leaned into lean thinking, and began to untangle Ripley Machine from manual processes and memory-based management. Still, the tools he had weren’t suited for the kind of shop he wanted to run.
It wasn’t until Andy implemented ProShop that the fundamental transformation took hold.
The team got access to the same information, tooling, and setups became easier to manage, and planning work no longer relied on his constant oversight. Late orders dropped, morale lifted, and quoting, scheduling, and tracking got faster.
Now, Andy runs a growing shop with more efficient systems, higher standards, and the breathing room to take a fully unplugged vacation. His story isn’t about flashy leaps, it’s about what happens when a shop owner truly commits to improving, one decision at a time.
LinkedIn – Andy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyreinwald/
Ripley Machine – https://www.ripley-machine.com/
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Most shop owners don’t realize how much stress is baked into their day-to-day. They’re running jobs, juggling people, chasing parts—and slowly getting used to the constant pressure. For Phil Gurecki, it was normal to be the only one who knew where everything was, how it worked, and what came next. Until it wasn’t.
As Accurate Machine grew, so did the complexity. Assemblies got tougher. Tooling got chaotic. Binders multiplied. And the cost of relying on Phil’s memory—or a key employee’s tribal knowledge—became impossible to ignore.
He tried two ERPs. Neither stuck. It wasn’t until ProShop that things clicked. This time, Phil went all in. Got his team involved. Started documenting everything. Within months, even newer hires could confidently run repeat jobs. And when a key team member left, nothing fell apart.
Phil didn’t set out to build a world class shop. He just wanted to get organized and get some peace of mind. But once the systems were in place, everything shifted. He had time to lead. His team had clarity. And customer tours? He starts those at the computer now—because that’s where the real work lives.
There’s pride in the machines, sure. But for Phil, the real pride comes from knowing his shop can scale, adapt, and grow—without burning anyone out in the process.
LinkedIn – Phil Gurecki: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-gurecki-4a9439110/
Accurate Machine Inc -https://www.accmachine.com/
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Most machine shops are filled with skilled workers, powerful machines, and a relentless drive to get parts out the door. But behind the scenes, inefficiencies can quietly eat away at profitability, morale, and even long-term survival. Many shops rely on outdated systems, fragmented information, and tribal knowledge that vanishes when key employees leave. The result? Missed deadlines, costly mistakes, and constant firefighting.
Marvin Rodriguez of True Precision Machining shares how his company faced these challenges and found a way to transform operations through a strategic shift in processes and systems. By implementing ProShop ERP, his team moved from paper-driven chaos to a fully digital, streamlined workflow. Along the way, they improved efficiency and fostered a culture of engagement where employees actively contribute to continuous improvement.
True Precision is thriving, reducing errors, cutting wasted time, and positioning itself as a top-tier supplier in aerospace, defense, and medical manufacturing. Marvin’s story is a masterclass in using data, structure, and technology to take a business from reactive to proactive. Whether you’re struggling with inconsistent processes or just looking to scale smarter, this episode is packed with actionable insights for any shop owner or leader ready to perfect their systems for success.
LinkedIn – Marvin Rodriguez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marvin-rodriguez-08667694/
True Precision Machining – https://www.trueprecisionmachining.com/
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Most job shops turn to ERP systems expecting more efficiency but end up with more headaches, more spreadsheets, and more frustration. Most ERPs weren’t built for job shops—high-mix, low-volume work, constant scheduling changes, and the need for real-time visibility. Instead of fixing the chaos, they add layers of complexity, leaving shops struggling to keep up.
Traditional ERP systems were designed for large-scale manufacturing, where jobs are predictable and repeatable. A job shop doesn’t operate that way. Custom parts, shifting lead times, and last-minute jobs require flexibility. The wrong ERP slows everything down, forcing machinists to hunt for information and managers to rely on outdated spreadsheets.
Matt Gawlik of 3D Graphite Machining struggled with multiple ERPs that couldn’t keep up. He realized the problem wasn’t just the software—it was how most ERPs force shops into rigid workflows that don’t match reality. His experience highlights the difference between an ERP designed for mass production and one that actually works in a job shop.
There are clear signs an ERP is failing. If scheduling is still a mess, if machinists don’t trust the system, or if data has to be manually entered in multiple places, that’s a red flag. A job shop ERP should track everything in one place, automate scheduling, and provide instant access to accurate job data.
Disconnected tools and outdated processes don’t have to be the norm. A job shop ERP should be a natural extension of how machinists and managers already work. The difference between struggle and efficiency isn’t just software—it’s using one that actually understands how a job shop runs.
LinkedIn – Matt Gawlik – https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-gawlik-92843222a/
3D Graphite Machining – https://www.3dgraphite.com/
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Most manufacturers don’t realize just how much inefficiency is baked into their daily operations—until they start pulling back the layers. That was the case for Johnny Goode, President of MSP Manufacturing, who stepped into the family business in 2020 and immediately saw opportunities for change.
Paper-based processes, siloed systems, and hidden inefficiencies were costing the shop time, money, and agility. But change wasn’t easy—especially for a team that had been doing things the same way for years.
Johnny shares how MSP systematically broke free from outdated habits, transitioning to a fully digital, ProShop-driven workflow. The results? A purchasing process that went from two full-time employees to a four-hour-a-week task, on-time delivery skyrocketing to 97-99%, and a 50% growth in revenue with only a 2% increase in overhead.
He also talks through the challenges of change management, the unexpected benefits of radical transparency, and how the right ERP doesn’t just organize a shop—it transforms its culture.
For shop owners wondering if digital transformation is worth the effort, Johnny’s story makes it clear: the cost of staying the same is far greater.
LinkedIn – Johnny Goode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-goode-1846441bb/
MSP Manufacturing – https://msp-manufacturing.com/
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In this episode of Manufacturing Transformed, I sit down with Ron Wallace, the owner of Ace Machining, a leading job shop located in Nova Scotia, Canada. Ron shares the remarkable story of how he went from starting his business with just a few machines to now overseeing a thriving operation with advanced equipment like Swiss lathes, waterjets, and five-axis mills.
Ron’s journey has been filled with growth, challenges, and innovation. After years of trial and error, including multiple relocations and expanding the team, Ron realized that embracing technology was the key to taking his business to the next level. That’s when Ace Machining turned to ProShop ERP—a game-changing decision that streamlined operations, enhanced communication, and improved efficiency across the shop floor.
In this episode, we learn how ProShop ERP has helped Ace Machining overcome common growing pains, such as managing material certifications, job costing, and reducing setup times. With the help of ProShop, Ron and his team were able to implement systems and processes that improved not only their operations but also their bottom line.
Ron also discusses the value of hiring the right people, delegating responsibilities, and investing in technology to fuel growth. This episode is packed with insights on how modernizing your manufacturing process can lead to incredible transformations—just like at Ace Machining.
LinkedIn – Ron: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-wallace-172a8627/
Ace Machining Ltd – https://www.acemachining.ca/about-us/
Buy Back Your Time – https://www.buybackyourtime.com/
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Zimmer Design & Manufacturing, an ITAR-registered AS9100 Contract Manufacturing machine shop in Austin, TX, has experienced remarkable growth—70% since its launch in 2020.
Founder Adam Zimmer started the company in his garage, crafting cigar stands and ashtrays as a hobby with a manual lathe and mill. A pivotal moment came when he purchased equipment and customers from a friend closing his shop, which set the stage for his transition into a thriving business.
From day one, Adam knew he wanted to scale, so he invested in ProShop ERP for its functionality, scalability, and affordability. Today, with a team of 11, ProShop underpins every part of their operation, from quoting and processing to training and tool management.
Adam credits ProShop for making growth and organization seamless, enabling streamlined systems that have become the backbone of his success. The ERP’s documentation and workflows even simplified their AS9100 certification process.
As a programmer and machinist, Adam’s focus on automation and efficiency has been key to scaling the business, and he emphasizes the role of delegation in balancing work and family life. With ProShop as the foundation, Zimmer Design & Manufacturing is not only thriving but also on track to achieve another year of explosive growth in 2025.
LinkedIn – Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-zimmer-5b806b152/
Zimmer Design and Manufacturing – https://www.zimmermanufacturing.com/
Audio and Video Production and Show Notes by – PODCAST FAST TRACK
In this episode of Manufacturing Transformed, Brannon McKinney, General Manager at Faircloth Machine Shop, shares the incredible evolution of a small repair shop into an AS9100-certified leader in aerospace manufacturing.
When Brannon joined Faircloth 16 years ago, fresh out of community college, the shop had just eight employees and relied on conventional machines and a homemade ERP system. Today, with the help of ProShop ERP, they’ve streamlined operations, embraced innovation, and achieved certifications that transformed their business.
Brannon discusses how ProShop became an essential part of their journey—simplifying scheduling, enhancing tool tracking, and making the AS9100 certification process seamless.
You’ll hear how Faircloth leverages technology, fosters collaboration, and cultivates a team culture that drives success. Whether you’re curious about ERP systems, certifications, or scaling a manufacturing business, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
LinkedIn – Brannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brannon-mckinney-a6666b87/
Faircloth Machine: https://fairclothmachine.com/
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This third-generation precision machining business is thriving and growing thanks to a well-executed vision, a focus on culture, and the adoption of the best technology, like ProShop ERP. The transformation that CARR Machine has seen in the past five years has been nothing short of remarkable. Jim and Ryan are aligned in the vision of the company, they use their core values to drive the hiring, firing and alignment of their team, and along with a strong marketing focus, they have grown considerably, entering new markets, expanding their facility and moving from a low volume industrial shop to a high volume aerospace and defense contract manufacturer. Enjoy the inspiring story in this episode.
LinkedIn – Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-carr-6231a858/
LinkedIn – Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmycarr/
LinkedIn – CARR: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carr-machine-&-tool-inc-/ Instagram – CARR: https://www.instagram.com/carrmachine/
Website: https://carrmachine.com/
In this episode, we sit down with John Zmuda, President of Moseys Production Machinists, to uncover how his team revolutionized their operations by ditching outdated manual processes. From the frustrations of late-night spreadsheet marathons to unlocking double-digit growth, John shares the transformative impact of adopting modern ERP and QMS software.
Learn how transitioning to a machine shop ERP system gave Moseys the tools to streamline workflows, improve customer communication, and free up time for strategic growth. Hear firsthand how Joanna, the company’s customer service lead, shifted from time-consuming order entry to proactive client engagement.
John also dives into how automation and digitization have boosted team morale, attracted younger talent, and created a culture of innovation and collaboration. Discover the hidden costs of manual workflows and why investing in modern tools is essential for thriving in today’s competitive manufacturing landscape.
If you’re still juggling spreadsheets and paper trails, this episode will inspire you to rethink how you run your business. Don’t miss it!
👉 Tune in to learn how modern ERP can unlock your shop’s potential. Follow John and Moseys Production Machinists Personal LI: /john-zmuda-7725bb3b/ Company LI: /moseys-cnc-machine-shop/ Website: https://moseys.com/
Manufacturing Transformed This Man’s Life with Daniel Anglemyer from Hibshman Screw Machine Daniel went to work on a hog farm at the age of 12 for $5/hr. With family members in jail for drugs, great job options weren’t plentiful. But after getting a job at a machine shop, and eventually landing at Hibshman Screw Machine Products, Daniel has flourished, meeting his wife, buying a home, moving into management, and having a huge positive impact on Hibshman and his team.
And Daniel clearly has a knack for leadership, sharing many principles and much wisdom by which he leads. ProShop has been an accelerator to their success in the past couple of years, which is usually the main topic of Manufacturing Transformed episodes, but this is a more fundamentally significant transformation which I am grateful that Daniel shares with us all. I hope this reaches people who are outside of manufacturing and who can see what positive impact a manufacturing career with a fantastic company can provide!
About Hibshman Screw Machine: Hibshman Screw Machine Products, Inc. is a major screw machine products manufacturer and supplier in the Midwest area, supported by our most important assets; knowledgeable employees, courteous service and a host of satisfied customers. It is the goal of Hibshman Screw Machine Products, Inc. to provide total customer satisfaction by continuously improving our products, quality processes, and services.
4x Growth In 4 Years with Kevin Richards from JJR Fabrication Kevin and Bryan Richards took a chance opportunity to build a few parts for another business and realized the potential to have a viable business. Today they have a rapidly growing precision machining and fabrication company selling high-value aerospace assemblies.
Their success can be traced to amazing leadership, but also a dedicated commitment to lean principles and incredible implementation of ProShop ERP. One of the best results of having such a lean and efficient system is Kevin can spend his day growing his team, planning out strategy for the future and investing in people which is the part of the business he loves the most.
About JJR Engineering and Fabrication: JJR Engineering and Fabrication is a complete engineering and manufacturing facility located in the Puget Sounds Aerospace region. Providing high quality parts to the Aerospace, Satellite, Marine, Industrial and Medical industries. We can support your needs from prototyping to full production.
Building a Company with ProShop as the Foundation with Nick Preece from PMA Nick Preece has a deep passion for machining which he stumbled up on while watching YouTube videos of machining while he was an engineering student. After deciding to buy a machine to make parts as a hobby, he realized he needed to earn some revenue just to pay for his hobby. 6 years later, he has a thriving AS9100 certified precision machining company, Preece Machine & Assembly, doing high-end work for discerning clients in regulated industries.
After a few years they decided they needed a better ERP system that integrated their QMS in a way that their prior ERP, Fulcrum, did not. Now having been on ProShop for 2 years, Nick describes it as the foundation of their entire business and the system they are building every aspect of their company on.
About PMA: Established in 2018, Preece Machining and Assembly (PMA) is a precision CNC machining and milling shop. Our clients create the industries of: aerospace, satellite, defense, optoelectronic, semiconductor, medical science, biomedical research, as well as automotive, food and beverage.
Specializing in rapid prototyping, low volume production machining, featuring very tight tolerances and exotic materials, we handle projects of any upfront cost or quantity. We command the technical expertise to fabricate very complex, intricate parts. Certified ISO 9001, ITAR and AS9100 (in-process), PMA is winning [epic] growth in aerospace and health technology.
A One Man Machining Army with CJ Abraham from PPD CJ is a humble and extraordinarily capable guy. He can keep a CNC machine running literally 24/7 for 6 weeks straight without a minute of downtime. But he spins self deprecating jokes about not running a legitimate business. That’s one of the most endearing qualities about CJ.
In this really interesting conversation CJ shares why he bought ProShop as a 1 person company, and how it helps keep him from hiring several people just to keep up with the high volume of work and data his company creates. His main customer calls him a One Man Machining Army, which seems like an apt description when you learn about the incredible business he runs today and the volume of parts his machines spit out on a daily basis. It’s a great lesson on how little details and systems can be stacked to produce extraordinary results!
About PPD: We offer fully automated, 24/7 lights-out machining with the ability to finish “6-sided” milled components in a single operation from round bar. With automatic material handling, we maintain tolerances down to +/-.0002″ (+/-.005mm) in a temperature-controlled environment. Our one-piece-flow process adapts to any quantity, from 10 to 10,000 pieces.
Finishing includes deburring, tumbling, ultrasonic cleaning, and drying, with options for anodizing, nickel, cadmium, and gold plating. We conduct first-article and in-process inspections with advanced equipment. Through ProShop ERP, we ensure ISO9001 and AS9100 compliance, manage certifications, and track equipment calibration.
You’re Never Too Small for an ERP with Tom Rougeux from RX Industries Tom is the owner of RX Industries, a precision machining company serving high-end markets from Hilton Head Island SC. In his previous job, he had been an implementer of SAP for more than 5 years, so he had the battle scars to prove that he knew what he did and didn’t want from the ERP system he’d use for the company he had just bought.
After much research, he decided to invest in ProShop before the company was even open for business. And Tom firmly believes that it’s worth looking past the functionality of an ERP and whether or not those functions could be satisfactorily covered with spreadsheets at the earliest days of a company. He shares his thoughts about why a shop that wants to differentiate themselves needs to consider the right ERP in the early days.
About RX Industries: RX Industries is the Palmetto State’s first CNC shop powered by the ProShop ERP MES QMS system. We specialize in close tolerance, multi-axis CNC machining for the Space, Military and Aerospace industries. Our CNC equipment consists of new, DMG-Mori 5-axis mills and turn/mill lathes with 9-axes of machining capability.
New Tsugami Swiss machining centers with 5 axis capabilities and we have invested in palletized automatic production and robotic loading/unloading for unattended machining. RX Industries has a 2020 Zeiss CMM for Quality Control, running Calypso software. We use Esprit CAM and SolidWorks CAD. We are ITAR registered, CMMC Level 2 Compliant, We are ISO9001 Certified and AS9100 compliant and carry 06, 07 & SOT FFL licensure.
How to Cut Metal More Often, Solo Episode with Paul Van Metre There are a lot of roadblocks to cutting metal as much as we’d all want to in our shops. From not having the right material on hand, to setups that take WAY too long. In this solo episode, Paul talks about a question he was asked about how ProShop can actually help increase the value-added time of cutting chips.
When companies can make a meaningful improvement in this area, it can be a powerful force for transformation. Give a listen to see if your issues made the list.
Building a Business Worthy of Passing to Your Children with Chad Vanderbeek from Hibshman Screw Machine Products Chad Vanderbeek knew that the company they were running was not one he would be happy to hand off to his children if they were to take over the business one day. Things were too chaotic, information was not readily enough accessible to make the best decisions, and he felt that the company systems needed to be rebuilt.
Since choosing ProShop the company has made a significant transformation and it’s now a company that Chad would feel confident and proud to hand off to the next generation. From getting a nearly perfect score on an Industry 4.0 assessment, eliminating all their 3-ring QMS binders, to doubling the bottom line of the company, and feeling like their team has really stepped up ownership of the results of the company, everything has gotten better since implementing ProShop ERP. This candid and authentic interview demonstrates what’s possible with a committed team and great leadership to implement the tools effectively.
About Hibshman Screw Machine Products: Hibshman Screw Machine Products, Inc. is a major screw machine products manufacturer and supplier in the Midwest area, supported by our most important assets; knowledgeable employees, courteous service and a host of satisfied customers. It is the goal of Hibshman Screw Machine Products, Inc. to provide total customer satisfaction by continuously improving our products, quality processes, and services.
A New Breed of Precision Machining Businesses with Sean and James Cerven from Cerven Solutions James and Sean Cerven were both a bit bored during Covid and decided to buy an inexpensive CNC machine for fun, having never run one before, and mostly seeing them on YouTube videos. Fast forward just a few years and they have a thriving business with high-end CNC machining equipment specializing in making small parts.
They share their lean journey openly on their social media channels, and they’re focusing on building the foundation of a mature enduring company ready to grow on scalable business processes. For their young age, these guys pack an outsized amount of wisdom, grit and can-do attitude that is sure to take them far. It’s an honor to get to interview them early in their journey, and even more of an honor that they’ve chosen ProShop as a partner in their growth.
Driving Accountability & Performance with Hernan Ricaurte from Ricaurte Precision Continuous improvement, transparency, and accountability are very important to Hernan, President and CEO of Ricaurte Precision. Those are all values or qualities he looks to build and foster in the culture at Ricaurte Precision – a precision machining company serving the defense, commercial space, medical device and other industries out of their Orange County CA location.
Focusing on those things has helped Hernan grow revenue at Ricaurte Precision by more than 3x since he took the business over from his father in 2016. Hernan describes ProShop as the “backbone” of their company, and the transformation over the past 8 years under Hernan’s leadership is nothing short of remarkable. Enjoy this insightful interview with Hernan to learn some of his secrets to success!
About Ricaurte Precision: Ricaurte Precision Inc. has been providing a wide range of turnkey precision machining (CNC) services to FDA and Aerospace regulated clients for over 30 years (ISO 9001:2015). With a capacity of over 10,000 machining hours per month, Ricaurte Precision specializes in medium to high quantity, tight tolerance machining of metal and plastic parts.
Tying Process & Culture Upgrades Together with Matthew Sawhill from IME Manufacturing & Engineering was a precision machine shop specializing in quick turn, low volume job shop work, doing lots of repair work and reverse engineering for local customers. While that business model worked, they often found themselves with their valuable machines and resources sitting idle.
They decided to focus on automation and unattended machining processes and capture higher-volume production machining work to maximize their revenue and machine throughput. As they started making that change, they realized that the old E2 ERP system they had been using was not up for the challenge. From the waste of the paper-based processes to a schedule that didn’t work, they decided they really needed a change to their business operating system.
After finding and deciding on ProShop ERP, they were up and running in 3-4 months and haven’t looked back since. They’ve seen dramatic improvements in on-time delivery, scrap reduction, throughput increases, setup-time reduction, and much more.
Importantly, they’ve focused on the cultural shifts necessary to get real buy-in and alignment with their production team to focus on process improvements, and eliminating variables so they can successfully optimize their unattended time and get maximum throughput on their equipment. Matt shares very candidly, the important things they’ve focused on to transform the business in this way, and how ProShop has been foundational in that effort.
About IME: Innovative Manufacturing and Engineering is your ideal partner for CNC milling and CNC machining. Our advanced machining processes let us tackle projects of all scopes and sizes. IME specializes in high-volume production, fabricating large quantities of precision parts with exceptional quality and speed. Our team handles projects ranging from early prototypes and up to 1,000,000 pieces or more. Often times we work with our clients 12 months in advance to plan according and solidify that you have what you need exactly when you need it.
Reigniting Passion for Business with Heather Charlton from Free Force Machining Technology Heather Charlton is co-owner of Free Force Machining Technology Inc. in Ontario Canada. Free Force is a 100% Swiss CNC machining business that serves many industries with its AS9100 and ISO 9001 certifications.
Heather and her husband Steve started the business in 2007 during the height of the financial crisis, with a new toddler, and she was pregnant with their second child! Talk about a bold move! Seventeen years later they have a thriving business with 13 CNC Swiss machines. Formerly on E2 Shoptech, Heather decided she needed an upgrade to their ERP and ProShop has been live on the shop floor since early 2022. It’s made a huge difference to all aspects of the shop, and has reignited Heather’s passion for the business. In fact, she said that without adopting ProShop, she may have decided to leave the business as it was such a challenge to run the business on E2.
About Free Force Machining Technology: Free Force Machining Technology Inc. was founded in 2007. We specialize in CNC machining of precision parts for today’s high technology industries. We are Small Part Specialists with a focus on parts less than 1.25″ (approx. 32mm) in diameter. From prototypes to production runs we are your one course supplier. Free Force is committed to Zero Defect Production.
Scott Shortess, the President of Advanced, is a very thoughtful shop owner and thinks about the success of a precision machining company through the lens of a continuous improvement mindset, waste reduction and building really robust systems for the team to use effectively to delight customers.
In this insightful interview, Scott shares how their company has been transformed by having a system that truly works for them, instead of them working for the system, and allowing that freedom to enable them to focus on the meaningful work of eliminating waste and focusing on the customer. Enjoy the conversation.
About Advanced: Industrial Plastic Distributor, Fabricator, and Contract Manufacturer of Precision Components. We service the Aerospace, Energy, Defense & Food Processing industries as well as emerging markets. ISO9001:2015 and AS9100:2016 Registered.
After Justin Quinn bought a machine shop, having no experience in the industry, he often questioned his decision and feared that he’d made a big mistake. He wasn’t satisfied with the state of the business and the constant firefighting and needing to be at the epicenter of all shop activities – and he couldn’t break through that $1M revenue mark.
Once he found and decided on ProShop ERP after going through a very thoughtful implementation process, the transformation was instant! The very first year they blew through that $1M goal and haven’t looked back since. We couldn’t be happier for the success of a really good human being like Justin.
We know you’ll be rooting for him as well after listening to this very authentic and heartfelt story of the transformation of Focused on Machining. About Focused on Machining: Focused on Machining is a precision machine shop in south Denver. We strive to becoming a leading supplier of machined parts and our goal is to deliver quality parts on time every time. Exceeding our customer’s expectations is the only acceptable way we will operate.
Perseverance and Transformation with Kurt Boquet at Kajan Perfection After getting fed up with the lack of getting good data from their 3rd ERP system, Kurt discovered ProShop ERP and decided that it was the system for them. Once they overcame the fears of change and objections from some of their more senior employees, they ditched the paper and never looked back. They now feature ProShop on their building sign, business cards, and company advertisements. Amazing!!
Kurt also shares their innovative solution for recruiting new employees and may other valuable insights in this episode. Enjoy!
About Kajan Perfection: Kajan Perfection has been in business since 1980, first starting out as a small job shop—repair shop. We are a quality oriented, family owned and operated business keenly aware of the importance of quality parts and on time deliveries. Since our founding we have grown into a quick turnaround, small quantity prototype facility with experience in most stainless, titanium, nickel alloys including Nitronic and HyMu, and many other exotic materials as well as the standard 4140/4130 and mild steel grades. We are also experienced in machining aluminum and many types of plastics.
Throughout the years we have had the opportunity to build and perfect the manufacturing process for parts such as gage carriers, setting tools, various types of manifolds, flow control equipment, housings, landing nipples, flanged parts, crossover subs, and test and separation equipment. From the simplest boat anchor to the most complicated flow control devices to immaculately machined acrylic show pieces, we have over 300 years of combined experience here at Kajan Perfection and we have never turned down the challenge of a complicated part.
From Investment Banker to Making Space Parts with Matt Lindsay from Autopilot Matt Lindsay was an investment banker, spending lots of time in airports and different cities. He was also an avid fly-fisherman. When he saw an article about a local fly fishing reel manufacturing company and decided to ask the company for a tour to see how the reels were made, that sparked a conversation about him buying into the business. The existing owner, an excellent machinist and engineer, who wanted to grow the business but didn’t have the business skills, was looking for a partner to help grow the company.
Matt joined in 2018 and got bitten by the manufacturing bug. After running the business on paper forms and spreadsheets for several years, he learned about ProShop and realized there was a better way. Four years later, they’ve doubled in size, gotten AS9100 certified, and could not imagine living without ProShop today. It feels great to be able to support a company like Autopilot. Enjoy this episode!
About Autopilot: Our vision at Autopilot is to be a world class design and manufacturing company headquartered in Bozeman, Montana. From Fortune 100 companies to small innovation groups, we approach every project as a challenge that has a best-path and a best-result. We provide a broad range of design and manufacturing services to meet many specific needs and utilize both designers and machinists to ensure continuity in our process.
A College Course in Machine Shop Management with James Marzilli from Marzilli Machine Co. James started his shop on a dare from his wife. For the first many years he did the best he could and grew the shop, but it was chaotic and a struggle. Once he implemented ProShop, he describes it as getting a college level education on HOW a machine shop should actually be run.
From there, he grew Marzilli Machine 64% the next year with the same staff and machines. And he and his wife have taken more vacation in subsequent years than in the decade before. This is a true transformation story which we are lucky to be able to capture in person. Enjoy this episode.
About Marzilli Machine Co.: Marzilli Machine strives to be the best machine shop in our area. We have the ability to make the complicated parts that other shops are unwilling to. We are constantly improving processes and techniques to bring our customers the best value. Our goal is to help our customers achieve their needs within their budget. Marzilli Machine will take your parts and deliver them to you complete with paint or finish that you desire.
Follow James and Marzilli Machine Co: Personal LI: /james-marzilli Company LI: /marzilli-machine Website: www.marzmachine.com FB: @Marzilli-Machine-Co IG: @marzilli_machine_co
Most shop owners don’t realize it, but the way they lead their team and the systems they use may be quietly holding them back. In this episode, we hear from Perry Kuehn of K Tooling, a shop owner with decades of experience who thought his business was running fine… until it nearly ran off the rails. What followed was a transformation that reshaped his culture, workflow, and client relationships. And it started with one bold decision.
At first, Perry was focused on growth: new machines, new buildings, new customers. But under the surface, delivery dates were slipping, team members were stressed, and quality issues were creeping in. The systems in place, both technological and cultural, weren’t built for scale, and Perry soon realized it wasn’t just a software problem. Leadership needed to change, too.
That’s when he went all-in on ProShop ERP. But adopting a new system didn’t just mean new screens or better scheduling. It became the catalyst for a complete reset in how the team operated and how they were led. Perry shares openly about the resistance, the tough personnel decisions, and the leap of faith required to shut off their old ERP cold turkey.
The shift was immediate and profound. Delivery stabilized. Quality improved. Communication got clearer. And for the first time in a long time, the team wasn’t just keeping up, they were thriving. Perry also reveals how these internal changes paved the way for external wins: major new contracts, ISO and AS9100 certifications, and his highest month of incoming sales on record.
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to evolve from a reactive job shop into a high-trust, high-performance operation, or how leadership, culture, and the right systems are deeply connected, this episode offers a powerful firsthand account of what that transformation can look like.
The Company that Helped Launch ProShop with Rich Olson from Sealth Aero Marine Sealth Aero Marine is a leading supplier of aerospace hardware to the commercial and private aircraft market, since the 1950s. And, Rich Olson, their current President, has been a part of the ProShop story since before ProShop was even a product, in the late 1990s. As one of the earliest and largest customers of Pro CNC, Sealth Aero Marine (SAM) has watched the evolution of ProShop from its earliest days.
When they adopted ProShop as their ERP in 2009, and went live in less than 2 weeks, that gave us huge confidence that ProShop could be impactful for other companies beyond just our own shop. This was a very full circle moment to record this first-ever episode of the Manufacturing Transformed Podcast. About Sealth Aero Marine: Sealth Aero Marine designs and manufactures an extensive range of Latches, Bolting Systems, Hinges and Many other Precision Components. The Original SAM Bolt system offers advantages over other conventional latching systems. Our products are widely used in multiple industries to include Aerospace (Private and Commercial), Military, Marine, and Space applications.
Follow Rich and Sealth Aero Marine: Personal LI: /rich-olson Company LI: /sealth-aero-marine-co Website: www.sealth.com FB: @SealthAero IG: @sealthaero