Leadership is more than a buzzword—it’s the backbone of every successful machine shop. In this episode of MakingChips—Machine Shop MBA, hosts Paul Van Metre and Jen Dubose sit down with Kyra Tillman, owner of BTM Industries, to explore what real leadership looks like on the shop floor and in the front office.

Kyra inherited a decades-old family shop steeped in tradition and transformed it into a forward-looking, systems-driven operation without losing its close-knit culture. Drawing on her experience in construction and her perspective as a non-machinist leader, she shares how she built trust, introduced new systems, and developed her people—all while respecting the expertise already on her team.

This conversation digs into the mechanics of leadership in a small manufacturing business: why humility and transparency matter, how to foster a culture of continuous improvement, and the difference between managing work and leading people. Kyra also outlines her approach to apprenticeship programs, leadership training, and grants, showing that even small shops can invest in their workforce and future.

Whether you’re an established owner or just starting your journey, Kyra’s lessons on change management, talent development, and leading by example will help you strengthen your shop from the inside out.

Segments

(1:07) Introducing our manager and today’s co-host, Jen Dubose
(5:00) Kyra’s background: from construction to leading BTM Industries
(8:19) Leadership as support and respect for expertise
(10:02) Modernizing operations: moving beyond index cards
(11:08) Why you need to join us at MTForecast
(13:12) Building credibility and trust as a non-machinist leader
(14:48) Monthly meetings and opening communication channels
(17:14) Vision and hiring for skill and attitude
(20:06) How do you build trust with your team?
(24:03) Creating a culture of continuous improvement and curiosity
(26:37) Developing talent from within and apprenticeship programs
(28:17) Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC
(29:41) Investing in people: leadership training, grants, and high school interns
(32:42) External resources: mentorships, peer groups, and local networks
(35:42) Switching to ProShop ERP and navigating change management
(39:21) Leading by example and diving in alongside the team
(40:58) Personal leadership habits: mindfulness, learning, and consistency
(41:42) Final advice from Kyra for shop owners and leaders
(45:11) Grow your top and bottom-line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA)

Resources mentioned on this episode

Why you need to join us at MTForecast
Get a preview of MTForecast on Buy the Numbers
Grow your top and bottom-line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA)
Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC: Get 20% off your registration with code MAK20
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