Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, Major Tool & Machine (MTM) has long been a leader in precision machining, fabrication, and engineering for mission-critical industries. With more than 650,000 square feet of manufacturing space, this modern CNC machine shop offers an impressive range of services, from complex fabrication and precision milling to quality inspection and assembly.
We had the opportunity to connect with Brandon Lee, Director of Manufacturing at Major Tool & Machine, following this year’s NTMA Engage conference. In our conversation, we discussed the company’s history with NTMA and where they continue to find value in their involvement with the organization today. Read some of the highlights below.
50+ Years of Partnership with NTMA
Major Tool & Machine’s connection with NTMA runs deep, spanning over 50 years. Originally a family-owned company, MTM’s leaders recognized the value of aligning with a trade organization dedicated to advancing American manufacturing.
Over the decades, many MTM employees have served in various leadership roles within NTMA, including national chairmen and numerous board members. Today, Brandon continues this tradition as part of the board of NTMA’s Indiana chapter, INTMA.
“Major Tool has always seen NTMA as an association of like-minded companies that battle the same challenges and play in the same arenas,” Brandon explains. “For us, the association has been a partnership, with opportunities to share lessons learned, collaborate, and help each other out.”
Collaboration Across a Manufacturing Network
For MTM, NTMA represents a trusted resource for manufacturing improvement and shared problem-solving. The ability to collaborate with a range of shops is especially valuable.
In particular, Brandon notes that some of the most eye-opening conversations have come from speaking with shops that are much smaller than MTM. These businesses have to be extremely creative and innovative with limited resources, and there’s a lot to learn from that level of ingenuity. At the same time, Brandon can share insights from MTM’s experience as a larger organization.
That cross-pollination of ideas between companies of all sizes and specialties creates the strong manufacturing network that NTMA is known for.
Training and Development Opportunities
A key part of Major Tool & Machine’s long-term success stems from investing in its people. With a full-time machinist trainer on staff, the company prioritizes in-house training for both new and experienced employees.
After hearing about the latest NTMA-U updates at Engage, Brandon sees even greater potential in the platform. He’s eager to see how NTMA-U can help MTM continue to bridge the gap for employees who want to pursue new career paths, particularly those without a traditional vocational background. New features have already inspired the MTM team to enhance their internal training and development programs.
Learning, Leading, and Staying Ahead
Attending NTMA events, such as our Engage and Emerging Leaders conferences and local chapter gatherings, gives Brandon a chance to step away from the day-to-day of his shop. These events offer a perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals from all over the country who face similar challenges.
When Brandon attends conferences, he makes it a point to participate in everything he can, and that includes supplier tours and shop visits. “I never turn down a tour,” he says. “You never know what you’ll pick up when you’re walking around another facility.” His tour of PTSolutions at this year’s Engage conference was no exception.
A unique takeaway from Engage 2025: AI and technology in manufacturing
For Brandon, one of the highlights from this year’s Engage conference was a session called “Demystifying AI,” which offered a deep dive into how different technologies will shape the future of CNC businesses. Brandon adds, “AI is one of those things where when you pull the thread, it just keeps going. You can go down a rabbit hole really fast on how many things it can be used for.”
Why NTMA? Where Major Tool & Machine Sees Value
For MTM, the value of NTMA membership is undeniable. “The investment is minimal compared to the return,” Brandon explains. “Especially for small shops, it can feel lonely in our industry. NTMA gives you access to people who understand what you’re going through.”
Additionally, involvement in NTMA creates real business opportunities. When MTM needs services that exceed its capacity or capability, it looks first to fellow NTMA member companies, as they know their values will align. “It’s a great supply chain network,” says Brandon.
Are you interested in joining this collaborative and supportive manufacturing community? Learn more about the benefits of NTMA membership!