Tony Gunn's journey from a machinist to the Director of Global Operations at MTDCNC showcases his dedication to excellence and innovation in the manufacturing industry. With over 25 years of experience, he has climbed the ranks through his passion for learning and extensive knowledge. At MTDCNC, Tony not only manages global operations, contributing greatly to growth and international reach, but also serves as a public face, engaging with industry leaders and presenting at major conferences. His influence extends through his work as an award-winning journalist, best-selling author, and host of "The Gunn Show" podcast, making complex manufacturing topics accessible and engaging. Known for his ability to navigate cultural and industry landscapes, Tony's leadership is marked by a commitment to pushing the boundaries of manufacturing, inspiring others with his strategic vision and adaptability.

Salim Elias Awad serves as President & CEO of SPINNER North America, overseeing operations for SPINNER Werkzeugmaschinenfabrik, the global leader in high-precision CNC machine tools. With over two decades of experience in manufacturing, international business, and strategic leadership, Salim has driven innovation and growth in advanced manufacturing technology.

His career began as a deep aea diver in the U.S. Army, followed by roles as a litigation attorney and various leadership positions in manufacturing. Salim holds a Juris Doctor degree from Saint Louis University School of Law and a bachelor's degree in intelligence studies from American Military University, with executive training from Harvard Business School. Under his leadership, SPINNER North America has become a trusted partner in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Salim is multilingual, fluent in English and Spanish, and is a Certified Machine Tool Sales Engineer (CMTSE).

He is passionate about mentoring future leaders and advancing STEM education, with accolades, including "Rising Star" and "Forty under 40", reflecting his dedication to professional excellence and societal impact.

Hernan Ricaurte is the President of Ricaurte Precision Inc. (RPI), a premier Southern California-based contract manufacturer specializing in precision (CNC) machining for the aerospace, space, defense, and medical device industries. Under his leadership, RPI has become a trusted partner to some of the world’s most advanced and demanding OEM’s.

Hernan has over 20 years of international experience spanning manufacturing and healthcare including a decade living and working in Japan. His commitment to leveraging advanced technologies, streamlining processes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement has driven RPI’s year-over-year growth of more than 20% for the past three years.

Hernan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from San Diego State University and is certified in advanced Japanese language proficiency.

Steve Cochenour is a seasoned Project Manager and Environmental Health and Safety Director with over three decades of experience in the manufacturing industry, specifically in CNC shops. Currently serving at American Tool and Mold in Clearwater, Florida, Steve has been instrumental in overseeing the progress of tool builds, managing customer and vendor communications, and conducting environmental health and safety audits. His notable achievements include coordinating the purchase and installation of millions of dollars of capital equipment and recruiting and managing a highly skilled team of tool makers. Steve's extensive experience and leadership make him an invaluable asset to manufacturing processes and safety standards.

Lance is the third-generation owner and current CEO of All Metals Fabricating, a contract manufacturer specializing in various metalworking processes. After earning his MBA in accounting from SMU in 2008, he joined the company, advancing from Controller to CFO by 2010, and eventually becoming CEO in 2018. Recognized as an industry trendsetter, Lance has driven technological advancements and automation within the company, earning accolades such as IndustryWeek's "Best Plant Award" in 2019 and CorporateLiveWire's "Manufacturing Employer of the Year" in 2022. Under his leadership, All Metals Fabricating was also featured in a 2022 episode of Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid.

Lance is known for his servant leadership, prioritizing relationships and community involvement. He has served on various boards, mentored a fatherless boy for over a decade, and participated in international evangelism trips. In 2022, he was honored as one of the Dallas Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, reflecting his dedication and leadership.

For more than a decade, Amy has been dedicated to supporting the innovation of manufacturers. She is inspired by the manufacturing leaders she works with and enjoys learning each company’s unique story. Growing up, her father worked as an electrician for a factory in Rochester, NY; Amy feels the manufacturing sector has always been a part of her life and she holds the highest respect for the manufacturers she encounters each day.

Amy earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing from The College at Brockport and maintains her designation as a Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP). She is also engaged with several industry associations such as the Austin Regional Manufacturers Association (ARMA).

Outside of work, Amy, her husband, and their two children enjoy traveling in their pop-up camper. They also spend time tending to their half acre garden each summer and enjoy the fruits of their labor.