Education Innovator, Author, Tennis Player
Paul Perkins has spent his career building bridges between people and opportunity in advanced manufacturing. As the president and co-founder of Amatrol, Inc., a LIFT member, he’s helped shape how thousands—possibly millions—of students, job seekers, and workers learn critical skills for careers in modern industry. From high schools and colleges to global corporations, Paul’s innovations in hands-on training systems and multimedia software have become foundational tools in technical education.
At the heart of Paul’s work is a deep commitment to equipping individuals with the skills they need to thrive in Industry 4.0, logistics automation, and advanced manufacturing. He’s not just building tools—he’s creating futures. Under his leadership, Amatrol recently launched a state-of-the-art virtual reality simulation of a smart factory, setting a new standard in immersive technical training. Paul has a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.
Paul doesn’t just lead in business; he’s a force in the broader workforce ecosystem. His long-time collaboration with organizations like LIFT, combined with volunteer service in groups such as the Indiana State Workforce Innovation Council and Indiana Manufacturers Association, reflects his belief in the power of partnerships to create lasting impact.
Recognized as one of the Indiana 250 in 2024, Paul brings unmatched energy, passion, and focus to everything he does. He’s authored over 20 books on industrial automation and has advised Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and international partners. As someone who lives and breathes advanced manufacturing education, Paul is a Modern Maker.
Q&A with Paul
How did you find your way to working in advanced manufacturing?
My father was a designer of custom automation for the manufacturing industry and founded an engineering design company that was a forerunner to Amatrol. I was always intrigued by the new machines he designed and how he was able to find solutions in innovative ways. I chose mechanical engineering to enable me to go into machine design.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
The large number of issues, items, and wide range of topics I encounter each day. I have to be well versed on curriculum development, technology development, manufacturing, finance, personnel/HR, marketing, and more. This is also what makes the job extremely rewarding and interesting.
What is the best part of your job?
Meeting individuals who are going through a technical training program using our products or those who have now gotten a job because of the skills they learned through our efforts. Our products have transformed the lives of thousands of individuals and their families.
What would people be surprised to learn about manufacturing or your role in manufacturing?
That I am so involved with the technologies of the products we develop and the manufacturing processes we use to produce our products. I am a hands-on CEO. I greatly enjoy the business aspects of being a CEO, but I am even more energized by the cool technologies we work with and how people can learn the skills to work with these technologies.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry or considering manufacturing as a career?
Manufacturing is an awesome career today because it isn't just one thing. Manufacturers are wide-ranging in the types of products they produce and the methods by which they produce these products. This keeps the work very interesting, and there is always a new challenge around the corner.
What makes you excited to go to work on Mondays?
The recognition that we are helping change the lives of students and their families through technical education.
What are the three most important skills for your job?
Technical skills, leadership skills, and creativity.
If you didn’t have to work, how would you spend your day?
Exploring or reading
What activity gives you the most energy?
Creating a new product!
What hobbies make you better at your career?
Alpine skiing, tennis, reading
How does the work you do impact the world?
Our products enable schools and industries to implement high quality training programs in advanced manufacturing technologies that enable them to get high paying jobs that provide a good life for themselves and their families. It also enables companies to find the people they need to produce products with the quality and quantity needed to support our economy.
