E818 – Transforming Tool & Die with Jeff Umlor, Walker Tool & Die
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<p>Jeff Umlor, president of Walker Tool & Die, joins the Destiny of Manufacturing podcast to explore why the next five years will be both stable and transformative for the tool and die industry. He discusses evolving product mixes, the rise of upfront simulation engineering, the growing role of AI and how data-driven decision-making is reshaping operations. Jeff also shares his personal journey into the trade, the value of technical education and how collaboration across shops—especially through <a href="https://www.pma.org/events/roundtables-divisions/" rel="nofollow">PMA's Tool & Die Division</a>—is strengthening the industry.</p>
<p><strong>About the Guest: Jeff Umlor, President, Walker Tool & Die</strong><br> Jeff Umlor is the president of Walker Tool & Die and brings 36 years of experience in the sheet metal tooling industry. With a background spanning operations, engineering and business development, Jeff has successfully led organizational growth, improved operational efficiency and expanded customer relationships across multiple industries.</p>
<p>Jeff is passionate about leadership, continuous improvement and developing the next generation of skilled trades professionals. He is an active member of the <a href="https://www.pma.org/districts/west-michigan/" rel="nofollow">PMA West Michigan District board</a> and supports initiatives that connect manufacturing with education.</p>