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Brent Donaldson Editor-in-Chief
Brent Donaldson is Editor-in-Chief for 91ÊÓƵÍøÕ¾ÎÛ, where he is oversees the brand’s writing staff as well as day-to-day management of editorial operations. Brent also serves as a columnist and feature writer and reports regularly about his travels to machine shops, trade shows and conferences around the country and internationally. Brent is also co-host, producer and editor of 91ÊÓƵÍøÕ¾ÎÛ’s documentary-style podcast, “Made in the USA.”
Before joining Gardner, Brent was editor-in-chief of Northern Kentucky University Magazine — the same university from which he received his journalism degree in 2005. Brent previously served as associate editor for , and is the recipient of two awards for feature news writing, awards, and more than 40 individual awards from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education for writing and editorial.
Fun fact: Brent was the last journalist ever to interview Evel Knievel.
Can U.S. Manufacturing Beat Trade Volatility? Lessons from Tormach's Global Strategy
As new tariffs loom, Tormach’s CEO shares how the company has adapted its supply chain to mitigate risk. By shifting production from Asia to Mexico and redesigning key products, the company is showing how strategic agility is the key to surviving and thriving in a volatile trade environment.
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How I Made It: Jared Doerfler
Jared Doerfler quit his comfortable job and taught himself CNC machining to launch his boutique putter company in small-town Iowa. With zero prior machining experience, Doerfler poured his life savings into a dream — crafting high-quality, American-made golf putters in his own machine shop. A story of risk, resilience and turning passion into reality.
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One Machine Shop's Unlikely Edge: Generosity, Creativity and Vertical Integration
Here's how Marathon Precision masterfully pairs trust, creativity and a full spectrum of manufacturing tech — from blacksmithing to precision CNC machining — to outpace competitors.
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Marathon Precision’s Engineering Playground: One Shop’s Secret to Sustaining High Tech, Low-Volume and High Morale
Half an airplane on the wall, a ten-foot metal dragon, and a full-blown recording studio might not scream “manufacturing efficiency,” yet Marathon Precision proves otherwise. Here’s how forging, complex CNC operations and staff-driven creative projects combine to fuel the shop’s productivity and profitability.
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Shop Tour Video: You've Never Seen a Manufacturing Facility Like This
In the latest installment of our “View From My Shop” series, explore Marathon Precision’s multi-process approach to manufacturing, where blacksmiths and hand-forged dies meet state-of-the-art CNC machining. Discover how restoring classic muscle cars and building custom art projects creates a dynamic shop culture — and draws top talent to this unique and innovative metalworking facility.
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Last Chance! 2025 Top Shops Benchmarking Survey Still Open Through April 30
Don’t miss out! 91ÊÓƵÍøÕ¾ÎÛ's Top Shops Benchmarking Survey is still open — but not for long. This is your last chance to a receive free, customized benchmarking report that includes actionable feedback across several shopfloor and business metrics.
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Why We Ask Machine Shop Leaders to Speak at TASC – The Automated Shop Conference
TASC is our industry’s premier peer-to-peer automation stage where America’s shop leaders refine the art of metalworking and CNC machining. For conference speakers, it's also an opportunity to showcase your skills and gain exposure for your business. Here are five why stepping into the spotlight at TASC could be your smartest move toward elevating your shop.
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How I Made It: Sherry Davies, CEO & President of T.J. Davies Co.
How do you transform a family machine shop into a thriving business while staying true to its roots? Sherry Davies recounts her path from childhood visits to her father’s machine shop to leading the business through growth and change. Here, she talks about her personal growth as a shop leader, her commitment to American-made products, and her lead-by-example philosophy.
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Shop Tour Video: From Garage Shop to Leading Aerospace Supplier
From repairing aircraft interiors to manufacturing medical implants, Superior Joining Technologies excels at CNC machining, TIG welding, laser welding, and NADCAP-accredited nondestructive testing. Discover how this Rockford-based company supports the aerospace industry through a combination of advanced technologies.
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5 Ways CNC Job Shops Can Gain Visibility and Influence in the Industry
As machine shops navigate economic and political uncertainty, 91ÊÓƵÍøÕ¾ÎÛ offers a chance to share their stories, influence the conversation and seize new opportunities.
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CNC Machines, Wyoming Monks, and Enduring Works of Gothic Art
The Carmelite monks of Wyoming adopted CNC machining to help build a monastery that, without this technology, would take decades or longer to complete. How they are doing it is fascinating. But so is why.
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Inside a CNC-Machined Gothic Monastery in Wyoming
An inside look into the Carmelite Monks of Wyoming, who are combining centuries-old Gothic architectural principles with modern CNC machining to build a monastery in the mountains of Wyoming.
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