Inspirational Trainer, Marine, Fisherman
With both a military and manufacturing background, David's career has been defined by a deep commitment to American manufacturing and a desire to ensure the nation remains competitive in the global market. His dedication to this cause is evident in his current role as the lead workforce trainer for America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) program, a national initiative led by IACMI focused on workforce development and technological innovation in manufacturing. ACE is supported by the Department of Defense’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) Program.
After serving in the Marine Corps, David realized that there were many ways to serve his country. He reconnected with machining and became aware of the global gap in manufacturing capabilities. Through manufacturing, he found a new mission. His focus shifted to training and inspiring the next generation of workers, especially in CNC machining, metrology, and composites. As a veteran and through ACE, he helps bridge the gap between today’s workforce and the advanced manufacturing technologies of tomorrow.
As part of his role, David is responsible for curriculum development and implementation, ensuring that training content aligns with the latest Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software and industry standards. He works closely with partner sites to ensure instructors are properly trained and maintain high standards. David also engages with industry leaders to discuss how ACE’s training programs can positively impact manufacturing facilities across the nation.
His expertise and hands-on experience are invaluable, and his leadership continues to inspire the future of America’s manufacturing workforce. For David, it’s all about ensuring the future of American manufacturing is bright, competitive, and driven by innovation, and that is why he is a Modern Maker.
Q&A with David
How did you find your way to working in Advanced Manufacturing?
I felt the need to do more with my life. There are so many opportunities in advanced manufacturing, and it impacts so many things in our everyday lives. I had worked in advanced manufacturing in some way for many years, but wanted to get to the next level and focus on the future and the technology involved.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Helping people understand the importance of advanced manufacturing and putting to rest the myths that manufacturing is just another dirty job with no real room for advancement.
What is the best part of your job?
Introducing individuals to advanced manufacturing. Not only giving back to an industry that has given me great opportunities but building back a part of American history. Being able to help build a workforce dedicated to the advancement of manufacturing.
What would people be surprised to learn about manufacturing or your role in manufacturing?
When teaching I always enjoyed sharing with people that were interested in manufacturing just how many things it envelopes. There are so many paths and different job titles you can hold that revolve around advanced manufacturing. Programming, machining, welding, design, fabrication, the list just goes on.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry or considering manufacturing as a career?
Learn everything you can. Try to stay with the times so you can be most efficient in your role.
Don't be distracted by the negative perception. Find out for yourself there are so many opportunities, and you can learn about most of them with absolutely no student debt.
What makes you excited to go to work on Mondays?
The opportunities to make someone's life better, to help a small business become relevant again through helping them understand advanced techniques in manufacturing.
What are the three most important skills for your job?
Attention to detail, leadership, and technical prowess.
If you didn’t have to work, how would you spend your day?
I am unsure. This is a situation that is hard for me to put myself in. I find I get very bored when I don't have some form of work to do.
What activity gives you the most energy?
A good workout.
What hobbies make you better at your career?
I like to design and make parts using additive manufacturing in the form of 3D printers.
How does the work you do impact the world?
Manufacturing impacts so many things all across the world. Anything you touch that makes your quality of life better more than likely has been manufactured. The work I do brings awareness to the fact that the individuals who have done this work silently in the background for years are coming to the end of their careers. We need to be able to replace them with skilled individuals. Our programs give individuals an opportunity to be introduced to these jobs that we so desperately need talented people in.
