Adonis Agapiou is a Battery Performance Engineer at General Motors, advancing electric vehicle technology since 2022. Before GM, he worked as a Quality Engineer at JST, focusing on automotive connectors and product integrity. He hold a Bachelor’s (2020) and Master’s (2023) in Mechanical Engineering from Oakland University and are pursuing a second Master’s in Engineering Management to enhance leadership skills. During college, Adonis was active in several organizations, including Formula SAE—contributing to race car design—and the Mechanical Engineering Student Advisory Board, where he organized networking events to support student engagement. Outside work, Adonis is a sports fan of basketball and football, a car enthusiast who enjoys comparing classic and modern vehicles, and likes working out and shopping.

Aleandro is a mechanical and energy engineer with over eight years of experience in the manufacturing industry, specializing in process automation, tooling design, and production optimization. Holding a Master of Science in Mechanical and Energy Engineering from the University of North Texas, he focuses on integrating robotics, pneumatic systems, and sensor-driven solutions to enhance efficiency, consistency, and safety on the factory floor. Throughout his career, Aleandro has led the implementation of automated cells using six-axis robots, developed ergonomic lifting systems for heavy components, and driven cost-saving initiatives through smart manufacturing practices. Recognized as one of Plant Engineering Magazine’s 2024 Engineering Leaders Under 40, Aleandro is also an active member of SME and the North American Deep Drawing Research Group.

Alex Roschli is a researcher at Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Manufacturing Demonstration Facility. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Tennessee. Since 2013, Alex has researched large format polymer, metal, and concrete additive manufacturing. His projects include the world’s first 3D printed car and other notable 3D printed vehicles. He authored Motion and Path Planning for Additive Manufacturing and has won several awards, including the AMUG DINO Award and the ASME Thomas A. Edison Patent Award. Alex focuses on software development for toolpath generation in large format additive manufacturing. He is a member of SME, ASME, AMUG, and ACM, and has mentored nearly 100 students and interns. Additionally, he runs an online retail business based on 3D printing and enjoys less intensive sports like soccer, kickball, and pickleball.

Andres Jaimes is a passionate manufacturing engineer with over six years of experience and a strong academic background, holding a B.S. in Applied Physics and two master’s degrees—in Manufacturing & Mechanical Engineering and Operations & Supply Management. With global work experience and fluency in four languages, Andres brings a well-rounded, international perspective to engineering and innovation. Known for being kind, approachable, and committed to lifelong learning, Andres actively mentors and empowers others while contributing to the manufacturing field with enthusiasm and expertise. Outside of work, Andres enjoys time with family and pets, as well as traveling, learning about new cultures, playing sports, and volunteering. Having supported communities across Europe, Latin America, and North America, Andres believes deeply in shared human responsibility and the power of giving back through education, cultural exchange, and service.

Ane Marie Harb is a dynamic professional dedicated to elevating engineering standards and fostering safer, sustainable workplaces. With a proven track record and impressive credentials, Ane Marie is at the forefront of modern industry transformation. As a driving force at Comefri USA, she has led the company's evolution to cutting-edge ISO standards, including ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018. Ane Marie's journey, fortified by a master's degree and Six Sigma Black Belt, embodies academia's synergy with real-world application. Her leadership as SME Nashville Chapter Chair and Outstanding Student Award recipient showcases her unwavering commitment to excellence. Rooted in determination and ethics, Ane Marie Harb is an inspiring innovator, shaping engineering's future with relentless passion.

Anthony Jackson brings over 20 years of experience in manufacturing, beginning in plant operations and later supporting design and manufacturing engineers through service engineering. Currently, Anthony focuses on business processes, developing and enforcing company policies in manufacturing, safety, and compliance. From a young age, Anthony was drawn to engineering and invention, and now aspires to teach and mentor. That passion is reflected in volunteer work with SAE’s A World In Motion (AWIM) and NSBE’s SEEK, both offering hands-on STEM experiences to students. Anthony is active in Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), promoting professional growth and community engagement. Through the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), Anthony has served as Secretary and board member of Chapter 69 (2020–2023) and participated in scholarship reviews, inspired by students’ enthusiasm for manufacturing.

Aric Halloran brings nearly 30 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, specializing in manufacturing strategy, steel and cast iron machining, and quality. With a background in leadership roles at a Fortune 100 company, Aric has overseen the development of cutting-edge technologies in welding, machining, assembly, and automation across a global scale. His extensive expertise extends to mentoring individuals on career planning, organizational problem-solving, and personal development. Actively involved in SME, he contributes to chapter activities, event planning, and workforce development in coordination with local manufacturers and academic institutions. Aric also serves as an Advisory Board Member for Moline High School's CNC program, helping to establish the first high school apprenticeship program in Illinois, and as a Board Member for the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, guiding new facility start-ups and capital planning.

Leveraging a successful career that began in engineering and evolved through significant leadership roles in sales, procurement, and supply chain, Arthur Hughes now brings his comprehensive executive experience to academia. As a Lecturer in Supply Chain and Co-Director of the Cameron Executive Network at UNCW, Arthur is dedicated to shaping future leaders and fostering impactful mentorship.

Arthur's unique experiences, gained from his diverse functional background and work across various industries, make him a compelling voice in career development. He is an established speaker known for delivering actionable insights on career strategy, personal branding, and the intricate dynamics between talent and opportunity. He maintains an active, part-time presence in recruiting and career coaching, empowering individuals to build resilient career paths. .

Dr. Basel Alsayyed is the Engineering Technology Program Director and Assistant Professor in the School of Engineering and Technology at Western Carolina University (WCU). With over 21 years in academia and 12 years in industry—primarily in the American automotive sector—Dr. AlSayyed focuses on integrating academic and industry goals through education, research, and workforce development. Prior to WCU, Dr. AlSayyed was an Industrial Professor at the University of Alberta and an Associate Professor at UAE University. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and holds seven patents. His research spans advanced and additive manufacturing, design optimization, quality and reliability, engineering education, project management, and knowledge management. Dr. AlSayyed is an ABET Program Evaluator (since 2022) and served as an SME Foundation scholarship judge in 2023. He also advises several student organizations at WCU, including the SME and MSA chapters, the Undergraduate Research Club, and serves as President of WCIC.

Bhargavi Mummareddy is an Additive Manufacturing Engineer specializing in high-performance ceramics at Dimensional Energy, NY. She leads projects on 3D printing silicon carbide for clean energy applications, collaborating with ORNL and NASA. Holding a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, her expertise includes ceramic additive manufacturing, process optimization, AI-assisted materials discovery, and reactor-grade component development. An SME 30 Under 30 honoree, she is active in SWE, ACerS, and TMS, and is passionate about mentoring and advancing the next generation of manufacturing professionals through collaboration and community engagement.

Brock Strunk is the Chief Structures Engineer at Epic Aircraft, LLC, where he is focused on the FAA certification of the 6 passenger all-composite E1000 aircraft. He has extensive experience in aerospace, composite manufacturing, and additive manufacturing, with previous roles at Erickson Air-Crane Helicopter’s Inc., Spirit AeroSystems, Adam Aircraft, and Lancair Aircraft. Strunk has been a dedicated SME member since 1999, holding numerous leadership positions, including Chair of the SME Member Council and Co-chair of the Technical Community Network. In 2008, he was awarded SME's Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer Award, and in 2022, he received the Industry Engineer of the Year award from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Pacific Northwest Community. As an FAA Designated Engineering Representative for Structures and Materials and Processes, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the aerospace industry. Outside of work, Strunk is an Assistant Scout Master and enjoys flying, mountain biking, skiing, camping, hunting, and fishing.

Dr. Chandra Nath is a Senior Research Associate at Purdue University and Adjunct Faculty at the University of Indianapolis. He co-supervises graduate research funded by federal agencies and industry, serving as Co-PI on multiple projects. With nearly 20 years in academia, industry, and government labs, Dr. Nath has led R&D initiatives supported by NSF, DOE, NIST, and industry partners. He co-founded Maijker Corp., a Purdue spin-off focused on smart machine monitoring, backed by NSF SBIR and IEDC grants. From 2015 to 2020, he was a Research Scientist at Hitachi America R&D, driving innovations in automotive manufacturing. He holds several patents and has published nearly 75 papers and three book chapters. His prior roles include appointments at Georgia Tech, UIUC, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, NUS, and Chittagong University. He earned his Ph.D. from NUS Singapore and B.Sc. from BUET Bangladesh, both in Mechanical Engineering. His research centers on advanced and sustainable manufacturing, smart machining, machine monitoring, and the environmental impacts of manufacturing.

Charan is a seasoned manufacturing quality professional with over 12 years of experience in automotive, HVAC, electronics, packaging, and electrical industries. Currently, he serves as the global quality director at Electrex Inc., a wire harness manufacturer in Hutchinson, Kansas. He holds a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, a master's degree in Manufacturing, and an MBA in Organizational Leadership. Charan is certified as an ASQ CQE, CQA, CMQ/OE, LSSMBB, and PMI PMP. From 2015 to 2017, he chaired the SME OKC chapter, increasing membership and earning a bronze certificate. He has authored book chapters and published articles on various manufacturing technologies.

Chris has over 14 years of experience in additive manufacturing across plastics, ceramics, and metals, and more than 20 years in materials and manufacturing, primarily focused on aerospace and power generation. Holding a B.S. in Ceramic Engineering and an MBA from Clemson University, Chris is skilled in multiple additive manufacturing platforms including SLA, Binder Jetting, Powder Bed Fusion, Directed Energy Deposition, and Digital Light Processing. Currently, Chris focuses on scaling and adopting metal-based additive manufacturing supply chains while consulting to help grow additive businesses. Passionate about education, Chris also teaches additive manufacturing concepts to local schools and mentors a Boy Scout troop, emphasizing life skills and preparation for the future. Outside of work, Chris enjoys growing hot peppers and tasting some of the world’s spiciest foods.

Chris Rake is the executive vice president and COO of FIRST®, a leading nonprofit advancing STEM education. Since joining FIRST in 2018 as vice president of Programs, Chris has played a key role in expanding the organization’s global impact and shaping its strategic direction. Before FIRST, Chris was the chief engineer at NI, where he led major initiatives in data acquisition, embedded control, and industrial systems, including overseeing the FIRST® robotics competition control system program for over a decade. Chris holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. With 19 years of product development experience, he is also an active volunteer within FIRST and serves on the SME Education Foundation Board, contributing his expertise to support the next generation of innovators. Beyond his professional achievements, Chris is passionate about photography and enjoys being a maker, engaging in 3D printing and electronics projects.

Corey Dahlberg is an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer with a demonstrated history in the electronic, plumbing, and heavy vehicle industries. He has a proven ability to lead teams through all stages of new product development, from concept to final product. Corey is skilled in process improvement and automation, DFMEA, Creo, phase gates, cross-functional work environments, and remote collaboration. He holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla. He also serves as a Director and Board Member for the Chicagoland SME Chapter 5. In addition to his professional work, Corey enjoys motorcycling, 3D printing, video games, and travel.

Darnell is a Senior Manager at a Fortune 500 company where he cultivates organizational change by designing and leading the candidate and employee experience. He and his team apply system-wide standardization, process improvement, and researched-backed practices to create innovative solutions through the lens of people for 2000+ manufacturing employees. Darnell joined the Marine Corps after graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 2009. Since leaving the Marine Corps, he has worked in director-level positions in state government before joining his current role. Darnell completed his MA at The Broad Residency in Urban Education, now at Yale University. He also completed a second MA in Management from Marshall University. Darnell frequently works with leaders to coach them through difficult business and people opportunities, including as a Coach for Leadership Frederick, which is an educational community leadership program of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. Darnell also develops other strategic planning initiatives to forge alliances that maximize financial resources, attract high-performing talent, and help to build upon company culture.

Meet David Sulli, a dynamic force driving manufacturing innovation in San Diego. As SME San Diego Chapter 44's chair, he fosters exploration and collaboration through transformative company tours and partnerships. David's 25-year career as a manufacturing engineer spans diverse sectors from marine to medical, and his multidisciplinary contributions include chairmanship, mentoring, and expertise in process manufacturing and quality control. His additional expertise includes running a small business that involves mechanical design, testing, assembly, vendor collaboration, sales, packaging, and customer service. Rooted in mechanical engineering, his journey from New York to California is a testament to dedication and engineering excellence, shaping a legacy of empowerment and innovation. Outside of work, David enjoys driving with his XBOX Forza Horizon games using a Logitech steering wheel, pedals, and shifter, all displayed on a 77-inch OLED TV.

Dr. Emma Betters is an R&D Associate Staff member in the Advanced Machining & Machine Tool Research group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Manufacturing Demonstration Facility. Since 2019, her research has focused on machine tool design, metrology, large-scale machining, and tool tip dynamics. She earned her BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida in 2017 and completed her MS (2022) and PhD (2023) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, after beginning graduate studies at UNC Charlotte. Dr. Betters helped develop and teach the CNC machining course "America’s Cutting Edge," working with industry professionals and enhancing her teaching skills. Outside work, she races motorcycles with Build. Train. Race., an all-female professional team in MotoAmerica, where she now mentors new riders and supports their development both on and off the track.

Ezhil Viswanathan is a seasoned industry leader in the CNC milling machine space, boasting over 25 years of experience in the field. As Vice President at one of the world's largest machine tool builders, Ezhil manages a portfolio worth $80 million, demonstrating his exceptional expertise in machine tools, CNC milling, and boring. His career is marked by a deep understanding of digitizing, controls engineering, and the nuances of executive management in the C-suite. Ezhil's leadership and strategic vision have consistently driven innovation and growth, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the manufacturing industry.

Farhad Ghadamli is an industry leader and advocate for advanced manufacturing, currently serving on the 2023-2024 SME Member Council. He connects mentees with SME’s Membership team, ensuring their ideas are heard. He chaired the SME Oakland-Macomb Chapter 069 (2021-2022) and led SME’s Additive Manufacturing Oversight and Appeals Committee in 2021, gaining valuable leadership experience and fostering teamwork. With expertise in additive manufacturing, Farhad has worked with OEMs and companies like Eaton, advancing 3D printing across various materials. He earned the SME President’s Award and was named one of SME’s 30 Under 30 Future Manufacturing Leaders in 2015.A mechanical engineering graduate from UC Davis, he founded the university’s SME student chapter and launched an additive manufacturing competition with Sandia National Laboratories. His nearly decade-long SME involvement highlights his passion for innovation and mentorship.

Gicell Aleman is a Manufacturing Engineer at Valmet Flow Control, focused on improving electric and pneumatic actuator production through process optimization. Since 2024, she has chaired the SME C025 Chapter, working to revitalize the group and expand outreach to students and professionals. She also serves on SME committees including Member Council, Student Relations, and Student Funding. She earned a Master’s in Engineering Management from the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico and a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering from Indiana Tech, where she was active in NSBE, chaired IEEE, and led the SME student chapter. Committed to leadership and diversity, she advocates for young girls in STEM from underserved communities. Outside work, Gicelle is a fitness enthusiast training for her first 10K, a coffee lover, and has a big sweet tooth.

Dr. Herman Tang, a distinguished professor in the School of Engineering at Eastern Michigan University, brings over 16 years of industry experience from Chrysler (now Stellantis) to his academic role. With expertise in mechanical, manufacturing, and quality engineering, he has authored five technical books, including two published by SAE. His latest, "Manufacturing System Throughput Excellence: Analysis, Improvement, and Design," was released by Wiley in 2024. Dr. Tang has overseen EMU's Master of Science in Quality Management and Graduate Certificate in Lean Six Sigma programs for about a decade, while also contributing as a journal associate editor, reviewer, and NSF panelist. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor and an MBA in Industrial Management from Baker College.

James Eash has over 35 years of experience in the Tool & Die industry, specializing in stamping dies for tier-one automotive suppliers and the RV window and door manufacturing sectors. In addition to his industry work, he has spent 25 years teaching in classroom and lab settings for college and career center tooling programs, sharing his expertise with the next generation of manufacturers. He actively volunteers with the Friends of the Bronson Library and the Bronson Area Historical Society. In his free time, he enjoys creating metal art from repurposed materials.

Meet Jeffrey Abell, a visionary leader in manufacturing innovation. As Director & Chief Scientist for Global Manufacturing at GM, Jeff's strategic acumen drives advancements in electrification, lightweight materials, and automation. He secured multi-million DOE funding, pioneering ultrasonic weld processes and reconfigurable assembly systems. Jeff's global experience spans work in Portugal and Germany, enhancing team synergies and achieving objectives. A two-time recipient of GM's prestigious "Boss" Kettering Award, his professional activities include chairing SME's Education and Accreditation Committee and serving on multiple advisory boards. Jeff's legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and global impact.

With over 20 years at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Dr. Fielding has led research and program management in polymer composites, multifunctional materials, and additive manufacturing. She is currently Chief of the Ceramics Branch, overseeing 70+ scientists and engineers advancing ceramics and ceramic matrix composites. Dr. Fielding served five years as Deputy Program Manager for the Defense-wide Manufacturing Science and Technology Program. She launched America Makes—the first Manufacturing USA institute—and led its public-private partnership for over four years. An active leader in SME, she served as Past Chair of the Member Council and chaired the Additive Manufacturing Community Advisors. Her honors include the Secretary of Defense Award for Excellence, Defense Manufacturing Technology Enabler Award, and Dayton Business Journal 40 Under Forty. She is a Fellow of both SME and AFRL.

Jim Garrick is a Lean process improvement expert with over thirty years in manufacturing, including automotive and logistics. He is a founding member of the Lean Certification program and serves on the AME/SME/Shingo Lean Certification Oversight & Appeals Committee. Jim holds a bachelor's in manufacturing engineering and an MBA from Tennessee Technological University. He is a Lean Master Black Belt and Six Sigma Black Belt, with awards including the SME Outstanding Young Engineer Award and a U.S. Patent. He is also a Shingo Prize examiner and is pursuing professional coaching certification. Outside work, Jim enjoys sailing, automobile racing, and repairing antique clocks.

Originally from Seattle, Washington, Josh Diaz completed the Aeronautics & Astronautics program at the University of Washington and entered the Aircraft Maintenance division within the US Air Force. Afterward, he transitioned to the construction industry in operations and sales roles, culminating in a sales role within the building materials vertical, which led to a discovery of manufacturing operations and ultimately a sales role focusing on robotics and automation within the manufacturing industry. Josh Diaz joined SME to help grow the South Carolina Chapter and stepped into the Membership Coordinator role within the chapter. He volunteers on the Chapter Engagement Committee and the Emerging Professional Committee at the national level. Josh has initiated many successful recruitment efforts during the startup process and continues to lead many event planning efforts within the chapter.

Justin Fluegel began his career after earning a Mechanical Engineering degree, working as a project engineer designing custom hydraulic components. This role introduced him to Design for Manufacturing and led to developing CNC machining, welding, assembly, and test tooling. Encouraged by manufacturing engineers, he adopted Lean manufacturing and expanded into stamping tooling design. He later set up North American operations for a Chinese hydraulics company, gaining experience in sales, application, APQP/PPAP, and value-added engineering. In engineering management, Justin developed technical talent using SME ToolingU training. Currently, he is a Supplier Development Engineer at Bobcat, focusing on supplier quality and continuous improvement. He is also helping to restart the Milwaukee SME Chapter. Outside work, Justin coaches his sons’ basketball and baseball teams.

Meet Krishna Vuppala, a manufacturing leader committed to education and community empowerment. As an SME Member Council member for 2023, he focuses on inclusivity and vibrant community building. Krishna revitalized SME chapters as co-chair for the Chapter Enhancement Committee in 2022 and a member of the Chapter Revitalization committee in 2021. He's also led successful events like the SME Midwest Conference in 2018. Krishna's dedication extends to mentoring students and fostering future talent. With expertise in machining, Lean Six Sigma, and a background from India, he values sharing opportunities for success. Beyond work, Krishna is a family-oriented community leader. His journey exemplifies purpose-driven leadership, shaping brighter futures in manufacturing and STEM.

Kyle Riegel is an accomplished leader with extensive experience in engineering, sales, and global account management. He has held numerous positions within SME, including serving as an Education Foundation Board Member, founding member of the Emerging Professional Task Force, Chapter Ambassador, and past Member Council Representative. Kyle is deeply committed to mentoring and education, demonstrated by his involvement as a FIRST Robotics coach, judge, and mentor, and as a Project Lead the Way Board Member at his local high school. Additionally, he serves on the Engineering Boards for the University of Northern Iowa and Loras College. His career journey includes transitioning from engineering to sales, managing teams, overseeing a division for the US and Canadian markets, and managing global key accounts in Germany, Brazil, Vietnam, and Spain. A former college tennis athlete, Kyle remains active in sports, enjoying basketball, skiing, soccer, running, and volleyball.

Meet Mark Michalski, a manufacturing veteran with 30 years in SME. As a board member for the SME Education Foundation, he's reshaped industry perceptions. In 2019, as SME president, he rejuvenated the board and led the CEO search. His expertise in electro-mechanical systems, lean Six Sigma, and digital manufacturing shines as the COO at MKS Instruments. Mark's journey includes influential roles at Bel Fuse, Acumentrics Corp., Zoll Medical, and BBN Advanced Computers. His commitment to learning is evident from his education at Northeastern and Lowell Universities. Mark's SME leadership spans diverse roles, and his 30+ Leadership Series events inspire professionals nationwide. Recognized with the 2010 SME Award of Merit, Mark continues to shape manufacturing's future through the SME Education Foundation board. Fun fact! Formally trained in culinary arts, he created a food website that focuses on engineering and cooking. Additionally, Mark is a former competition ballroom dancer and a semi-professional photographer.

Matthew L. Hilgendorf is the chief operating officer at Acme Industries in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, with a strong background in operations, quality, and supply chain leadership. He previously served as vice president of operations at Atkore International, where he led daily operations across more than 10 manufacturing facilities and spearheaded lean initiatives and ERP transformation. Earlier roles included managing manufacturing sites and leading the Atkore Business System. Prior to Atkore, he held leadership positions at Black Horse LLC and Caterpillar Inc., including five years as a chief metrologist. Hilgendorf holds dual bachelor’s degrees in mechanical and manufacturing engineering from Kettering University and a master’s in engineering management from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. An SME member since 2002, he has served on the SME Board of Directors, led the Member Council, and was named an SME Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer in 2018.

Dr. Michael Gomez is a Principal R&D Engineer at MSC Industrial Supply Co., where he focuses on metalworking innovation and advanced manufacturing research. In his role, Michael lead’s MSC’s Manufacturing Research and Technology team focused on early stage and technical development of manufacturing solutions and services to the U.S. manufacturing marketplace aimed at improving workforce development, manufacturing productivity, and operational efficiency. He was named an SME Media 30 Under 30 Honoree in 2023 and received the Sandra L. Bouckley Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer award in 2022. Michael also serves as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Manufacturing Processes and was appointed to the SME Technical Community Committee in 2024. Additionally, he is involved in mentoring through MSC’s launch internship program and chairs MSC’s generational inclusion circle. Outside of work, Michael loves playing video games. 

Mike Molnar is the founding director of the Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office, leading the interagency team behind Manufacturing USA. He also directs the NIST Office of Advanced Manufacturing and co-chairs the White House Subcommittee on Advanced Manufacturing, overseeing the National Strategic Plan. Prior to federal service, Mike spent 25 years at Cummins leading manufacturing and technology development and was the first Manufacturing Policy Fellow in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. He holds engineering degrees from the University of Wisconsin and an Executive MBA from the University of Notre Dame. A licensed Professional Engineer and member of the Senior Executive Service, Mike is a Fellow of SME and ASME and has held over 80 leadership roles, including president of SME. An Eagle Scout and dedicated Scouting volunteer, he helped launch one of the first Scouts BSA troops for girls. All three of his children earned Eagle Scout, and he has mentored dozens more to do the same.

Meet Robby Komljenovic, an SME Educational Foundation board member since 2020, a manufacturing powerhouse, and a robotics enthusiast. His journey began at 12, eventually leading to a remarkable career shift from CNC machining to robotics. At Acieta LLC, he's left an indelible mark, propelling them to the industry forefront. Born in Germany and raised with a strong work ethic, Robby thrives on growth, aiming to lead, mentor, and build exceptional teams. As a 14-year member of Vistage’s leadership coaching, he adds valuable expertise that can be beneficial to mentees. Robby joined the SME Education Foundation Board of Directors and the Bright Minds Mentor Program because he believes he can be helpful in navigating the early years of being a student in the STEM field. In his free time, Robby enjoys boating, snowboarding, and world travel.

Ronald Wilkins is a skilled CNC Machinist with extensive experience in setting up and operating 4/5 axis CNC/DNC machining centers for manufacturing steam and combustion turbine components. He excels in using various measurement tools, such as micrometers, dial calipers, and CMMs, to ensure parts meet strict tolerances and specifications. Ronald is also a dedicated ME Mentor/Evaluator for the Scholarship Foundation Committee, leveraging his expertise to support and guide emerging professionals in the field. As an adjunct instructor in the Department of Manufacturing Systems, he teaches Total Quality Management (TQM) and Leadership Development, while also organizing and planning graduate student research presentations. Additionally, Ronald has served as an ASQ Student Chapter Coordinator, focusing on community business needs and membership growth. His previous roles include teaching SEMAA courses and training students for robotics competitions, highlighting his commitment to education and skill development.

Ryan Zeng is the Founding Partner and Principal Consultant/Coach of Stream Consulting, LLC, specializing in Operational Excellence and Project Management. Before this, he spent over 16 years at Carlisle Interconnect Technologies, serving as the Global Director of Project Management and Continuous Improvement. Ryan is the VP of Membership & Community for the Puget Sound PMI, Chair for the ASQ Seattle Section and SME Seattle Chapter, VP of AME West Region, and Executive Director of the AME Seattle Lean Consortium. He holds certifications in PMI PMP, PgMP, SME LBC, LSC, and ASQ CSSBB. Ryan earned his MBA and MS in Strategic Management from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. His expertise includes career coaching, strategy development, leadership coaching, problem-solving, and Kaizen methodology. Ryan now enjoys spending time with his 2-year-old daughter.

Dr. Gholston is Professor and Chair of the Industrial, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering Department at The University of Texas at Arlington. He serves as an examiner for both the National Baldrige Performance Excellence Award and the Florida Sterling/Oglethorpe Performance Award. He holds multiple professional credentials, including Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, IASSC Black Belt, Lean Healthcare Certification, and is an IASSC Accredited Lean Six Sigma Trainer. Dr. Gholston is also an active mentor in the IISE PhD Student Program and volunteers as a coach for a boys’ 17 and under basketball team.

Sathwik Reddy Toom is a Research Engineer at ArcelorMittal Global R&D with over seven years of experience in mechanical engineering. His work focuses on additive manufacturing, cold rolling development, and advanced materials testing. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University and an M.S. from the University of Michigan–Dearborn. Throughout his career, Sathwik has led projects involving laser side trimming, brake rotor optimization, and molecular simulations for flexible electronics. He has collaborated with industry leaders such as Ford, Hyundai, and TARDEC, and contributed to research initiatives for the U.S. Air Force. His technical expertise includes CAD modeling, finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and molecular dynamics. Sathwik is also certified in Six Sigma Green Belt. Passionate about bridging the gap between research and industrial application, he actively mentors early-career engineers and drives innovation in manufacturing. His goal is to continue developing technologies that enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in the materials and manufacturing space.

With over 25 years in technical sales, Susan Kolinski specializes in automotive electronics and manufacturing. She has worked with companies like Schaeffler, Stoneridge, and Agrati, and holds a BS in Material Science & Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University. An SME member since 2022, Susan contributed to the 2024 Membership Council, focusing on diversity & inclusion and corporate membership expansion. Susan volunteers for housing the homeless and as a board member and logistics coordinator for the WL Marching Band. She offers expertise in networking, resume building, problem solving, and technical sales, and is an avid golfer.

Dr. Teresa Rinker is a Senior Researcher at General Motors R&D in the Materials & Manufacturing Systems Research Lab, specializing in welding development for automotive applications, with a current focus on battery joining for electric vehicles. She holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan, where she also earned master’s degrees in both Mechanical Engineering and Material Science & Engineering while serving as an NSF Graduate Research Fellow. Dr. Rinker’s expertise includes destructive testing, welding of dissimilar metals, and thin foils. She has served on SME’s Member Council, Nominating Committee, and is currently involved with the Technical Communities Committee. A Registered Professional Engineer, she is a passionate advocate for women in STEM and balances her career with raising three boys and gardening in her spare time.

Timothy Lindh has dedicated his career to improving people, processes, and machines. With a background in manufacturing engineering, he has built deep expertise across a wide range of manufacturing processes—from common to highly specialized. Combining technical knowledge with project management skills and a strong business mindset, Timothy has advanced into operations management roles, leading productivity and process optimization across seven global factories. A Lean expert, he focuses on innovative, value-driven solutions to enhance capacity, throughput, cost efficiency, and quality. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, sports with his children, home improvement projects, and cooking.

William "Bob" Atkins is a passionate advocate for youth robotics and education. New to SME, he has been actively attending networking meetings for the past 12 months. He runs a Kindergarten to 12th-grade robotics program in Monessen, Pennsylvania, and serves as the Senior Mentor for Western and Central Pennsylvania for FIRST INSPIRES, the world's largest youth robotics organization. With a background in Robotics and an MSEET, William has returned from retirement to lead the robotics program and mentor young minds. He grew up in the projects of Tampa, Florida, and was inspired by community leaders who guided him toward a successful career. Now, he is dedicated to giving back by providing similar opportunities to others in economically challenged areas.

Dr. Yash Parikh, a Process Engineering Consultant at EOS North America, brings over a decade of expertise in additive manufacturing (AM), specializing in qualification and validation protocols for EOS's systems. He has secured over $5 million in research funding as a principal investigator (PI) and co-PI from agencies including AFRL, America Makes (NCDMM), and LIFT. Prior to joining EOS, he was a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Carnegie Mellon University's Next Manufacturing Center, where he advanced AI/ML applications for expeditionary manufacturing. His doctoral research at Texas A&M University on property-graded structures through laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) resulted in multiple peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Parikh holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and actively contributes to organizations such as ASTM, ASME, and SAE. He serves as a guest editor for Nature Partner Journal (NPJ) and a reviewer for journals, including JMP, JMSE, JOM, PIAM, and JLA.

Zachary Bibik specializes in additive manufacturing and applied robotics. Passionate about using manufacturing to improve lives, Zachary envisions a future driven by sustainable technologies, diverse energy resources, and equitable human rights. Their interests include energy development, on-demand manufacturing, and sustainable engineering design. Zachary began his journey with SME as the recipient of the 2015 SME-EF Family Scholarship and has since held multiple leadership and volunteer roles, including SME Member Council Representative (2022–2023, 2025–present), Chair of SME Chapter 354 (2021–2024), member of the SME Joint Nominating Committee (2023), and SME EP Task Group Volunteer (2020). Much of Zachary’s community involvement has been through SME, where he is committed to connecting local professionals and businesses to foster collaboration and innovation.