Machine Shop Mastery

What happens when a serial entrepreneur with seven businesses under his belt decides to go all-in on graphite machining—and does it with some of the fastest, most precise equipment on the planet? You get Matt Gawlik, and in this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, he brings the heat. Host Paul Van Metre sits down with Matt to unpack a no-BS journey through business wins, failures, and the strategies that separate thriving shops from the ones barely hanging on. From his early roots in a multi-generational manufacturing family to building 3D Graphite into a tightly focused, high-performing operation, Matt shares hard-won lessons about the value of specialization, the power of investing in elite equipment, and why systems—not micromanagement—should run your shop. His take on partnerships is equally honest: most are a sinking ship unless you go in with rock-solid agreements and aligned values. But the real anchor of this episode is Matt’s perspective on sales. “Sales is the tip of the spear,” he says—and without a full pipeline, your business ends up serving the wrong customers and losing money in the process. He lays out how smart, honest marketing and brand clarity can unlock better-fit clients, smoother operations, and a more profitable shop. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to level up your manufacturing business, this episode delivers straight talk, sharp insight, and more than a few mic-drop moments. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:09) Unlock hidden revenue: How CLA helps manufacturers grow profitably (1:24) Meet Matt Gawlik: Serial entrepreneur, niche expert, and straight shooter (3:46) From family business to seven ventures: Matt’s hard-won startup lessons (6:19) The truth about partnerships—and why most are doomed from the start (9:45) Why high-end equipment like Röders gave Matt a serious edge (17:33) How smart setups + elite machines = unbeatable profitability (21:52) The fast track to innovation: YouTube, tool reps, and expert help (23:24) Benchmark your shop: Why the Top Shop Survey is a no-brainer (25:18) Culture that performs: Grit, self-awareness, and emotional maturity (29:24) Sales is survival: Why most shops are stuck—and how to break free (34:19) Don’t do it all: Why niche focus is your most powerful strategy (37:32) Matt’s playbook for marketing a machine shop the smart way (43:26) Final takeaways: Systems, people, and the power of staying focused (46:54) Why you need to check out the MakingSparks podcast Resources & People Mentioned Learn how to grow your top and bottom-line with CLA Know how your shop stacks up by taking the Top Shop Survey Angela Duckworth’s Grit Scale The Enneagram Types The Sales Bible Obviously Awesome Start with Why Connect with Matt Gawlik Connect on LinkedIn 3D Graphite and Machining Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Most small manufacturers don’t realize they’re being quietly supported by one of the most impactful public-private partnerships in the country. The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) has long been the hidden backbone behind training programs, grant facilitation, process improvements, and critical tech upgrades for shops across the U.S. But recent Federal decisions to defund these programs—without clear communication or reasoning—have sparked confusion and alarm among industry insiders. In this episode, a passionate roundtable of manufacturers and advocates reveals just how deeply the MEPs have shaped their businesses, supported workforce development, and opened doors to opportunity they couldn’t have accessed alone. From AR-integrated quoting tools to automation investment guidance, these stories show a clear economic impact that extends far beyond individual shops—right into the health of local communities and the national manufacturing strategy. If you're just hearing about MEPs now, you're not alone—but you are at risk. This conversation lays out what’s at stake, why it matters, and what you can do right now to help save a resource that quietly powers tens of thousands of manufacturers nationwide. YouTube: https://youtu.be/WNjevmTNUu4 VideoAsk: https://www.videoask.com/fiyvfkcdd

When I first heard about Screwmatics—a shop with over 200 machines, 110 employees, and 16 buildings—I knew I had to talk to the guy behind it. In this episode, I sit down with Billy Hogge, the second-generation leader of Screwmatics out of Pageland, South Carolina. His story is incredible. His parents started the company 37 years ago with just two screw machines, and today it’s grown into one of the largest and most efficient high-volume machining operations I’ve ever seen. We talk about how Billy and his team have scaled so effectively by staying relentlessly sales-driven—even when they’re at capacity—and by reinvesting in automation, Swiss and CNC machines, and lights-out manufacturing. One of the wildest things he shares? Their top six customers today weren’t even customers five years ago. That’s how aggressive and strategic their growth has been. We also dive deep into workforce development. Billy’s all-in on building the next generation of machinists, partnering with local schools, serving on state workforce boards, and even helping shape tech school curriculums. He shares some great tips for how to find and keep good people—and how to help them grow within your team. Whether you’re running a small job shop or a larger operation, there’s something here for everyone. Billy offers so much wisdom on machine strategy, culture, sales, and what it really takes to grow and modernize a shop in today’s market. This one’s packed with insights, and I’m confident you’ll walk away inspired—and probably scribbling down a few action items. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:22) Why you need to complete the Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey (1:50) Overview of Screwmatics’ size, history, and impressive 16-building campus (7:41) How they run lights-out automation and fully automated second shifts (9:13) Learn more about Screwmatic’s global client base (13:07) Billy’s personal journey into the business and rise to vice president (16:09) Achieving growth without a designated sales team (20:42) The secret sauce in Screwmatic’s process (25:45) Operating in a high-volume environment (28:20) Why Billy is always filling the pipeline with opportunities  (35:54) Strategic machine investments using Section 179 with strong ROI focus (37:24) Partnering with schools and shaping curriculum for workforce development (45:17) Their culture of individual growth, flexible pay, and long-term employee success (48:09) Using ChatGPT to train operators on G-code and boost self-learning (50:00) The automation implementation process at Screwmatics  (1:03:20) Why you need to listen to the Lights Out podcast Resources & People Mentioned Complete the Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Connect with Billy Hogge Screwmatics Connect on LinkedIn Billy.Hogge@Screwmatics.com Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

How do you go from being the kid who couldn’t sit still in class to leading the machine shop for one of Elon Musk’s most ambitious ventures? In this gripping and often jaw-dropping episode, I sit down with Jim Cooney—Head of the Machine Shop at Neuralink—for a raw and refreshingly honest conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the unconventional road to mastery in machining.  While Jim isn’t a shop owner (my usual guest profile), his story offers every bit of the leadership lessons, grit, and insight that Machine Shop Mastery is known for. From his humble beginnings as a high school co-op student in Canada, Jim details how a lack of direction became fuel for a deeply hands-on journey into the world of machining. With stories of brutal old-school shop cultures, tools thrown across the room, and managers who trained with tough love (and zero patience), Jim paints a vivid picture of how adversity shaped his technical excellence and emotional resilience. But what really sets this episode apart is Jim’s transition from traditional tool & die work to the heart of Silicon Valley innovation. His career path took him from automotive stamping in Ontario to leading critical manufacturing efforts at Tesla, Apollo Fusion, and now Neuralink. He shares what it’s like building high-stakes, high-tech parts under pressure—and how working insane hours during Tesla’s “production hell” made him sharper, faster, and more adaptable. If you want a peek into the mindset and muscle it takes to thrive in a fast-paced, bleeding-edge manufacturing environment—or you're looking for inspiration on how to grow through adversity—this episode delivers in spades.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in… (0:00) Jim kicks off with a fun story about getting a missile export license (0:14) Why you should complete the Modern Machine Shops Top Shops Survey (1:42) Learn about Jim Cooney and his unique journey in manufacturing (4:35) Jim shares how struggling in school led him to discover machining (8:00) Stories from his early days in tough, old-school Canadian machine shops (10:44) Jim explains Canada’s apprenticeship system and earning his Red Seal (14:19) Jim’s first exposure to CNC and CAM at Massiv Die Form (20:04) Why Jim quit on the spot after being massively undervalued (22:13) How Jim moved into machining instruction at a college (25:46) How teaching machining and coaching hockey built his leadership skills (28:27) A surprise text leads Jim to Tesla during “production hell” (31:17) Wild stories from Tesla’s stamping department and nonstop chaos (34:21) Navigating the die process at Tesla (repair work) (38:15) Creating a game-changing apprenticeship program inside Tesla (40:41) Moving into the startup world with Apollo Fusion and later Astra (46:00) Facing burnout, broken promises, and the tough side of acquisitions (48:58) Quitting Astro and joining Neuralink the day he got his green card (51:49) Jim’s experience working at Neuralink (and their trajectory) (57:12) Jim’s process choosing the machinery they needed (1:00:15) Building and growing a team with a high standard of excellence (1:03:37) Skills to acquire if you aspire to be in leadership (1:06:33) Why you need to check out the Lights Out podcast Resources & People Mentioned Complete the Modern Machine Shops Top Shops Survey Tesla Neuralink Connect with Jim Cooney Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Have you ever thought about what it takes to make the leap from employee to employer in the machining world?  In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I’m joined by Adam Zimmer, the founder of Zimmer Design & Manufacturing. Adam’s journey is a remarkable one—he went from working as a tool and die maker to owning and growing his own successful machine shop in just three years. What started as a one-person shop is now an operation with 11 employees, nine machines, and three shifts running. In our conversation, Adam reveals how he made this transition, from learning the ropes as an employee to becoming an employer and leader. Adam explains how he built a company culture based on trust and autonomy, while networking and community involvement played a key role in his success.  He also highlights how strategic investments in technology, such as ERP systems and automation, have fueled his rapid growth. Adam also talks about the value of working with a business coach to refine his management and financial strategies. If you're considering making the jump from employee to employer, or simply looking for ways to scale your own machine shop, Adam’s insights into hiring, process optimization, and leadership are sure to inspire you. This episode offers practical lessons from a business owner who has experienced it all firsthand. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Adam’s transition from musician to machinist (3:53) How Adam started Zimmer Design & Manufacturing (7:06) Diving in and acquiring a business and customers (11:21) The importance of networking to grow your customer base (13:31) Building a company culture based on trust and autonomy (16:01) Delegation and leadership: Adam’s approach (18:25) Using technology and automation to scale the business (20:57) How Adam finds and hires the right people (26:21) Why you need to check out Buy the Numbers (28:14) How Adam builds trust with his team (35:41) Overcoming challenges in the early stages of growth (42:58) Adam’s strategic moves and biggest wins (45:37) Advice for new shop owners or those looking to scale their business (49:40) Why Adam decided to hire a business coach  Resources & People Mentioned Zimmer Design & Manufacturing Store Adam on Manufacturing Transformed  DiSC® Profile ProShop ERP Connect with Adam Zimmer Zimmer Design & Manufacturing Connect with Adam on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Marvin Rodriguez, owner of True Precision Machining, shares insights from his journey to running a cutting-edge machine shop blending AI and craftsmanship. He discusses the importance of understanding the true cost of parts for better pricing strategies and profitability. Key topics include enhancing workplace culture through competitive pay and employee growth paths, optimizing production shifts for quality and efficiency, and leveraging strategic customer engagement. Marvin’s innovative approach highlights balancing high-volume work with sustainable practices.

In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, Jason Davis, CEO of D&D Enterprises, is back for an insightful conversation on navigating growth and operational expansion in 2025. With nearly 26 years of experience in the machining industry, Jason shares his insights on scaling operations and avoiding the common pitfalls that come with growth. We dig into three main areas crucial for expanding your shop in the coming year: Adding capacity, improving sales and marketing, and managing new customer relationships. Jason dives into the specifics of adding shifts, particularly the challenges and best practices that come with implementing a second shift. From training the right people to ensuring smooth operations, this segment provides actionable tips that will help your shop maximize its potential.  We also touch on how to navigate the complexities of working with new customers and industries, including handling new requirements and flow downs that can often lead to unexpected challenges. Jason shares his practical advice on how to minimize these risks and ensure smooth transitions when taking on new work. The episode also covers the importance of sales and marketing in driving growth. Jason highlights the role of trade shows, social media, and customer relationship-building in attracting new business and maintaining strong connections with existing clients. With a focus on providing tangible, real-world examples, this episode equips you with the tools you need to refine your business strategy for 2025 and beyond. Whether you're preparing for a year of growth or looking for ways to streamline your operations, this episode is filled with valuable insights that will help you tackle the challenges of scaling your machine shop with confidence. Tune in for practical tips that can make a big difference in your success this year. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Jason reintroduces himself and D&D Enterprises (7:45) Recapping what we covered in episode #63 (8:56) Prepare for growth in 2025 with a plan and process (12:42) Adding shifts and growing capacity without overextending resources (25:41) You can’t undervalue the importance of an ERP system (31:42) Sales and marketing strategies for machine shops in 2025 (38:20) The importance of investing time into trade shows (50:53) The challenges of managing new customer relationships (35:00) Best practices for avoiding common pitfalls with new customers (45:00) Jason shares insights on effective communication and inspection practices (52:00) Key takeaways on being proactive in customer relationships (55:00) Maintaining momentum, continually improving processes, and adapting to changing needs Resources & People Mentioned 63. Solving the Puzzle of Strategic Growth with Jason Davis from D&D Enterprises Connect with Jason Davis D&D Enterprises Connect on LinkedIn Friend on Facebook Follow on Instagram Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Today’s guest is Kirk Phelps from American Precision Partners, a key figure driving the growth and transformation of multiple machine shops. Kirk’s journey into machining began as a teenager in his dad’s shop, where he started on manual machines while attending trade school. After experiencing burnout, Kirk joined the Air Force and served for six years, eventually returning to machining with a fresh perspective. Through programming and a transition into management, Kirk discovered his passion for business development and leadership. Now, as Regional Manager at American Precision Partners, Kirk oversees five—soon to be six—shops, working alongside Mike Fritz (featured in Episodes #57 and #58). Kirk plays a critical role in identifying strengths, addressing deficiencies, and leading cultural transformations within each shop. Kirk’s approach centers on building trust—both internally and with customers—to ensure smooth transitions. His dedication to fostering alignment between leadership and shop floor teams has driven impressive results, including a 40% growth last year at Quick Tek Machining. In this episode, we’ll explore how Kirk cultivates trust, transforms systems and processes, and builds a culture of continuous improvement to unlock a shop’s full potential. If you’re looking to enhance your shop’s operations, engage your team, or gain insights from a leader who leads by example, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:50) Introducing Kirk Phelps with American Precision Partners (5:40) Diving into Kirk’s role as Regional Manager (10:56) What’s different about working on the business  (16:43) How Kirk approaches conversations with customers (27:38) Tackling on-time delivery in any shop (31:02) Building trust with your leadership teams (40:47) How a new process can transform your shop (45:24) The importance of becoming a better leader (53:59) Creating a culture of continuous improvement  Resources & People Mentioned Episode #57 with Mike Fritz Episode #58 with Mike Fritz Connect with Kirk Phelps  Connect on LinkedIn Kirk@QuickTekMachining.com Quick Tek Machining Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Greg McArthur’s journey in manufacturing began as a child sweeping floors and cleaning mats in his father’s machine shop. Over the years, he gained hands-on experience, evolving from a lathe hand to a skilled CNC machinist, estimator, and engineer. Eventually, Greg took a bold leap, bidding on a machine sight unseen on eBay and figuring out how to transport and operate it—foreshadowing his entrepreneurial spirit. In 2017, Greg founded NTL Industries in his garage while working a full-time job. By carefully building a financial foundation, he transitioned to renting a facility, leasing machines, and growing a team.  Today, NTL Industries is a full-service CNC precision machining shop in Sterling Heights, MI, specializing in defense, aerospace, agriculture, and automation. The company has grown to 11 employees and is moving into a state-of-the-art, 13,000-square-foot facility that reflects its ambitious trajectory. From the beginning, Greg recognized the power of social media as a cornerstone of NTL’s growth. He embraced platforms like LinkedIn to build a following, share exceptional work, and attract new clients. Greg’s mantra is clear: if you’re not promoting yourself every day, you’re missing opportunities. By leveraging social media as a free marketing tool, NTL has gained exposure, received RFQs, and established a reputation for excellence. In this episode, Greg shares his story, insights on growing a machine shop, and advice for young entrepreneurs in manufacturing. Whether it’s navigating an economic downturn, diversifying into new markets, or overcoming challenges like labor shortages, Greg’s practical wisdom is a must-hear for anyone looking to grow their business. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [1:01] Introducing Greg McArthur and NTL Industries  [5:14] How Greg got into machining  [11:25] Growing the business despite challenges [19:13] How and why NTL Industries diversified [22:54] Leveraging social media for growth  [27:05] Growing into a 13,000 square foot facility [28:47] How they purchase their machines [31:37] What NTL’s hiring process looks like [35:30] NTL’s growth trajectory  [41:02] The challenges they’re overcoming  [46:47] Meeting CMMC requirements [50:05] Greg’s advice for young shops Resources & People Mentioned CyberAB CMMC Certification  Connect with Greg McArthur NTL Industries Connect with Greg on LinkedIn Sales@NTLIndustries.com Instagram Twitter/X Facebook LinkedIn  Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple & Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Dave bought two very different precision machining companies. One makes large gears in small volumes, and the other specializes in high-volume contract Swiss machining and other production machining. As an outsider to the industry, and not a technical shop owner, Dave shows that it’s not only possible, but an advantage not to be able to do programming, machining and the technical work of a machining company. Instead, he provides resources, sets the vision and builds and supports the team while focusing on finance, sales & marketing, and the other things he has so much experience with. There is a lot of wisdom to this approach for scalability and ultimately company value. If you’re considering buying a manufacturing company, or currently own one and want to work ON the business more often, this will be a valuable episode to listen to.