Moving from applications to sales was a natural progression for Tim Thiessen, now the senior vice president of sales for Okuma America Corp. A graduate of Berea College with a degree in industrial management and technology, Thiessen joined Okuma early in his career and has held various roles during his more than 30-year tenure.
“When I first started as an applications engineer, I got to see all kinds of parts and learned exactly how they were being made,” Thiessen recalls. “I was able to combine my knowledge of our machine tools and my understanding of what customers needed to help them make parts faster and better – ultimately increasing profitability.”
The Science of Sales
During his early years with Okuma, Thiessen became a certified machine tool sales engineer (CMTSE). The CMTSE program provides national certification for manufacturing technology sales professionals to help them stand out in a crowded marketplace. It was developed by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology and is administered by SME. The certification requires completing an e-learning course, passing a comprehensive exam, and having two years of work experience. Continuing education requirements ensure that CMTSEs exhibit exceptional business acumen and technical knowledge, making them trusted business advisors.
An Evolving Partnership
Now a veteran in sales and marketing, Thiessen’s involvement in AMT has grown alongside his career. As he transitioned into sales leadership, he started attending AMT’s annual MFG Meeting, gaining access to critical industry information and unrivaled networking opportunities. “I always make new connections and reconnect with peers at MFG Meetings,” Thiessen says.
Of course, IMTS – The International Manufacturing Technology Show, which is owned and produced by AMT, is still one of Thiessen’s most anticipated events. As the Western Hemisphere’s largest trade show, IMTS shines a spotlight on the technologies, services, and innovators that make manufacturing technology an economic powerhouse. Okuma has a longstanding history of exhibiting at IMTS.
“IMTS is incredibly important to Okuma. It’s our opportunity to show the world both our products and services,” Thiessen notes. “It would take me years to travel and meet with the tens of thousands of potential customers we get to see in the span of just one week at IMTS.”
Beyond the sales opportunities, IMTS is also an impressive showcase of the size and breadth of the manufacturing industry. “IMTS always reminds me that the manufacturing industry is wide-ranging and truly impressive,” he says.
Leveling Up
“I think a lot about how Okuma will level up in the future. When you associate with the right people, you can move to the next level faster. The leaders and members of AMT are the right people,” concludes Thiessen. “I recommend AMT membership to any manufacturing company. There is so much value in the relationships that AMT will open up.”
From the shop floor to the classroom to the boardroom, Thiessen has learned many lessons in his decades in manufacturing. The most important one is how to accelerate success by building strong relationships.
Learn more about AMT member benefits, including discounts to exhibit at IMTS or attend AMT events like The MFG Meeting.
