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74. From Employee to Employer - Adam Zimmer from Zimmer Design & Manufacturing
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Have you ever thought about what it takes to make the leap from employee to employer in the machining world?
In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I’m joined by Adam Zimmer, the founder of Zimmer Design & Manufacturing. Adam’s journey is a remarkable one—he went from working as a tool and die maker to owning and growing his own successful machine shop in just three years. What started as a one-person shop is now an operation with 11 employees, nine machines, and three shifts running.
In our conversation, Adam reveals how he made this transition, from learning the ropes as an employee to becoming an employer and leader. Adam explains how he built a company culture based on trust and autonomy, while networking and community involvement played a key role in his success.
He also highlights how strategic investments in technology, such as ERP systems and automation, have fueled his rapid growth. Adam also talks about the value of working with a business coach to refine his management and financial strategies.
If you're considering making the jump from employee to employer, or simply looking for ways to scale your own machine shop, Adam’s insights into hiring, process optimization, and leadership are sure to inspire you. This episode offers practical lessons from a business owner who has experienced it all firsthand.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...- (0:00) Adam’s transition from musician to machinist
- (3:53) How Adam started Zimmer Design & Manufacturing
- (7:06) Diving in and acquiring a business and customers
- (11:21) The importance of networking to grow your customer base
- (13:31) Building a company culture based on trust and autonomy
- (16:01) Delegation and leadership: Adam’s approach
- (18:25) Using technology and automation to scale the business
- (20:57) How Adam finds and hires the right people
- (26:21) Why you need to check out Buy the Numbers
- (28:14) How Adam builds trust with his team
- (35:41) Overcoming challenges in the early stages of growth
- (42:58) Adam’s strategic moves and biggest wins
- (45:37) Advice for new shop owners or those looking to scale their business
- (49:40) Why Adam decided to hire a business coach
- Zimmer Design & Manufacturing
- Connect with Adam on LinkedIn
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