Manufacturing Tomorrow

Charles Cohen, Fotofab

Charles Cohen serves as president of Fotofab, a Chicago-based specialty manufacturer recognized for photochemical machining and the production of high-precision metal components. Founded in 1967 and later becoming the first company acquired by The Partner Companies (TPC), Fotofab serves critical industries, including aerospace, defense, medical devices, and electronics.  Charles joined Fotofab in 2000 as Chief Financial Officer and was named president in 2010. He has been instrumental in modernizing Fotofab’s operations, expanding its customer base, and guiding its integration into TPC’s network of specialty manufacturers. Under his leadership, Fotofab continues to push innovation in photochemical etching to meet emerging market needs for lighter, thinner, finely detailed components with fast turnaround.  Most recently, Charles was elected to the Board of Directors of the Photo Chemical Machining Institute (PCMI), where he helps advance technical exchange, education, and benchmarking across the photochemical machining community.  Keywords: Photochemical Machining, Precision Metal Components, Manufacturing Innovation, Aerospace & Defense, Workforce Development

Michal Masser, Plex

Michael Masser is group product manager at Plex, a Rockwell Automation company, where he leads initiatives in supply chain and smart manufacturing solutions. Since joining Rockwell, he has been responsible for shaping product strategy, guiding roadmap development, and aligning customer requirements with emerging technologies to strengthen supply chain management capabilities. His role includes working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure product offerings address the operational and business needs of manufacturers.  Prior to Rockwell Automation, Michael held leadership positions in product management, business development, and logistics. At World Options Inc., he oversaw initiatives in shipping and logistics that informed his broader approach to supply chain efficiency. His combined background in business development, logistics operations, and product management gives him a comprehensive understanding of how digital tools can drive measurable improvements in manufacturing and supply chain performance.  Keywords: Industry 4.0, Smart Manufacturing, Digital Transformation, Supply Chain Innovation

Russ Bukowski, Mastercam, & Chris Basgall, Catamount Machine Works

Russ Bukowski is president of Mastercam, the world’s most widely used CAM software. With decades of experience driving product innovation and strategic partnerships, Russ is leading Mastercam into a new era—where AI, advanced automation, and precision programming are reshaping how machinists and shops operate. Under his leadership, Mastercam 2026 introduces powerful new features designed to boost productivity, efficiency, and usability—while helping manufacturers stay globally competitive. Chris Basgall is CEO of Catamount Machine Works, a precision machining company based in the Tampa area. Catamount delivers high-quality components for industries ranging from aerospace to energy, and Chris brings a unique perspective as both an engineer and business leader. He’s navigating the real-world challenges of workforce development, automation, and staying ahead in a fast-moving supply chain.

Robyn Bolton, MileZero

Robyn Bolton is founder & chief navigator of MileZero, an innovation consultancy that helps manufacturing leaders turn bold ideas into tangible results.   Robyn began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she led the North American launches of Swiffer and Swiffer WetJet, and shaped strategy for P&G’s $2B Household Needs portfolio at Walmart. She went on to become a partner at the firm founded by Clayton Christensen, the Father of Disruptive Innovation, before launching MileZero.  Her work spans multiple industries, from manufacturing to energy, advising leaders at industrial and consumer goods companies as wide ranging as Nike, Medtronic, Baltimore Aircoil (BAC), and Motif Food Works. She is the author of Unlocking Innovation: A Leader’s Guide for Turning Bold Ideas Into Tangible Results.

Rosemary Coates, Reshoring Institute

Rosemary Coates is the the founder and executive director of the Reshoring Institute (reshoringinstitute.org), a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding U.S. manufacturing supply chains. She is also president of Blue Silk Consulting, a global supply-chain management consulting firm.  With more than 35 years of experience, Rosemary has advised over 100 companies worldwide on global supply chain strategies. She is a best-selling author of five books, including The Reshoring Guidebook and Legal Blacksmith – How to Avoid and Defend Supply Chain Disputes. She is a frequent contributor to media outlets such as CNN, Forbes, and IndustryWeek.  Rosemary also serves as an expert witness in legal cases involving global supply chains. She is a board member of the University of San Diego’s Supply Chain Management Institute, and she teaches Global Supply Chain Strategy at UC Berkeley. She earned an MBA from the University of San Diego and a bachelor’s degree in business logistics from Arizona State University.