Companies can sustain long-term relevance by prioritizing product development and fostering emerging leaders in the manufacturing industry, according to Milton Guerry, president of Schunk USA (IMTS booth #432010). A global leader in tooling, workholding, and automation, Schunk has operated internationally for more than 80 years and in the United States for 35 years. The company continues to invest in expanding its product portfolio while cultivating talent to support long-term growth.
Nourishing a Spark
Guerry began his manufacturing career as an apprentice in an automotive shop, driven by a hands-on curiosity for how things work. He later earned a mechanical engineering degree and held several engineering roles before joining Schunk, where under the Schunk family’s mentorship, he developed from general manager to president.
Today, he stays closely connected to customers: “We are fortunate that our customer list is a ‘Who’s Who’ of manufacturing,” Guerry notes. “They are doing amazing things, and we are trusted to bring them products that challenge their status quo and keep their production systems running at an optimal level.”
Navigating Challenges
Leading through turbulent times is never easy, and Guerry pointed to geopolitical uncertainty – including tariffs and supply chain disruptions – as a key challenge for manufacturers.
“Situations like tariffs can create quite a lot of chaos in our system,” Guerry explains. “AMT is one of the leveling voices, bringing context to these situations by informing our industry and helping us make long-term strategic decisions.”
Guerry explained how Schunk leverages its AMT membership to extend its influence within the industry and broader policy discussions. “AMT provides a company of our size with a larger voice and a broader platform to tell our story to both policymakers and the industry as a whole.”
More specifically, Schunk relies on AMT Research Services to inform strategic decisions aimed at targeting areas of potential growth. Guerry explained how curated information, including USMTO data, helps the company target opportunities in sectors ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical.
Guerry and his team regularly participate in AMT events such as MTForecast and The MFG Meeting to gain market insights and build industry connections. “At these events, we get to network with our potential customers, partners, and other industry leaders, and see how others are using AMT data and services.”
Of course, the hallmark event for Schunk and the broader manufacturing industry is IMTS. “Our products are inherently physical. Our customers need to see, feel, and watch them in action. They can do it all at IMTS,” Guerry says. “Trade shows like IMTS provide that opportunity in a way digital channels cannot, particularly for complex technologies.”
Building a Vision
Since the early days of his career, Guerry has had an eye toward the future. “You have to focus on being better than you were yesterday,” he concludes. “Companies have to be focused on the future, and AMT can help give you a voice, a perspective, and inspiration for what the future may bring.”
Building the future starts with seeing the future, and Guerry has a clear vision.
To learn how AMT supports manufacturers, visit AMT member benefits and find more members.
