This month, we spotlight our CEO, Richard Merlino. Richard’s journey in manufacturing has taken many exciting turns, and has been filled with rich experiences, lessons learned, and a deep commitment to the growth and success of both the company and its people.

A Wealth of Experience
Richard has been in the manufacturing industry for over two decades, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise. His journey began with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and since 1999, he has worn many hats across various roles in the field. Before joining Modelcraft, Richard founded Addaero Manufacturing, a metal 3D printing startup that started humbly in a cabinet shop and eventually grew into a successful company, which he sold to ATI Metals. Prior to his entrepreneurial venture, Richard spent 15 years at Pratt & Whitney, where he worked in manufacturing, sales, and continuous improvement. His career has been marked by innovation and leadership, and he brings all of that experience to his current role at Modelcraft.

A Leader Focused on Growth
Currently serving as Modelcraft’s CEO, Richard is driven by a simple yet powerful philosophy: do whatever is required to help both employees and customers perform their best. Since joining Modelcraft, Richard’s focus has been on creating an environment that fosters growth—not just for the company, but for its people.

When asked about an accomplishment he’s particularly proud of at Modelcraft, Richard reflects on the growth of the employees under his leadership. "It has not been easy, but as I look back, I’m most proud of seeing our employees grow as people," he shares. “The change I see in individuals makes me hopeful for the future.” Richard acknowledges the challenges that come with leadership, especially when stepping into an organization from the outside, but he is optimistic about the path forward. Under his guidance, Modelcraft continues to evolve and thrive.

Passionate About Problem-Solving
Those who work closely with Richard describe him as energetic, a problem-solver, and demanding in the best way possible. His passion for solving problems fuels his drive, although he admits he’d rather excel in problem prevention—a testament to his commitment to continuous improvement.

Richard stays ahead of the curve by diving deep into industry trends, attending conferences, and staying up-to-date on the latest machining techniques. He’s a lifelong learner, always eager to see what’s next in the world of manufacturing.

Values-Driven Leadership
At the core of Richard’s leadership are three key values: fairness, innovation, and adaptability. These principles guide him both in his professional role and in his personal life. Outside of work, Richard enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, and skiing with his wife and three teenagers. He is proud of the balance he’s found between his career and his family life, often remarking on how lucky he feels to have such a strong and supportive family.

Looking Forward
Richard’s vision for Modelcraft is clear—he wants to build a successful business where both employees and customers are excited to be. As CEO, he is working hard to ensure that Modelcraft continues to exceed expectations, delivering high-quality, precision-machined parts while fostering an environment of growth and innovation. We are proud to have Richard leading Modelcraft and look forward to the continued success that his leadership will bring.