In an era where manufacturing often operates in the shadows of more glamorous industries, Tony Gunn has made it his mission to pull back the curtain and reveal the fascinating world of CNC machining, automation, and industrial innovation to a global audience.
Known as “The Worldwide Machinist,” Gunn has traveled to over 80 countries, creating a unique bridge between manufacturing communities across continents. From his base in Boca Raton, Florida, he has transformed himself from a machinist into a thought leader, podcast host, and advocate for an industry that powers modern life but rarely receives the spotlight.
“Manufacturing is invisible to most people,” Gunn explains. “But everything around us, your phone, your car, the chair you’re sitting on, was made possible by machinists and engineers. I want to make that visible and exciting.”
His journey began not in boardrooms or universities, but on the shop floor. Through dedication and curiosity, Gunn worked his way into conversations with head engineers at major corporations, learning the intricate details of how things are made and why manufacturing matters. This hands-on experience gives him credibility that purely academic observers lack.
What sets Gunn apart is his ability to translate complex technical concepts into engaging narratives. Through The Gunn Show Podcast, he shares insights from industry leaders, explores cutting-edge innovations, and sparks conversations about the future of manufacturing. His platform has become a gathering place for professionals who want to see their field celebrated and understood.
The global perspective he brings is invaluable. Having visited more than 80 countries, Gunn has witnessed manufacturing cultures from Germany’s precision engineering to Asia’s rapid automation adoption. He has seen how different nations approach problems, implement solutions, and train the next generation of workers. This cross-cultural knowledge allows him to identify best practices and share them across borders.
But Gunn’s impact extends beyond industry insiders. He is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation to consider careers in STEM fields. By making manufacturing relatable and exciting, he hopes to address the skilled labor shortage that threatens industrial growth worldwide. His approach is simple: show young people that manufacturing is not just about repetitive tasks, but about innovation, problem-solving, and creating the future.
© Tony Gunn
His core values of patience, kindness, compassion, and forgiveness might seem unusual in an industry known for precision and deadlines. Yet these principles guide his interactions and have helped him build relationships across cultural and professional boundaries. In an increasingly polarized world, Gunn demonstrates that connection and collaboration are possible.
Gunn’s work has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized as a world leader in manufacturing thought leadership, an achievement that reflects both his expertise and his communication skills. As he builds his brand credibility, his goal is to speak at larger forums where he can make an even greater positive impact.
The manufacturing sector faces significant challenges, from supply chain disruptions to workforce development. Yet voices like Tony Gunn’s offer reason for optimism. By connecting innovators, celebrating achievements, and making the “invisible” visible, he is helping to ensure that manufacturing remains vibrant and relevant.
For anyone who has ever wondered how things are made or considered whether a career in manufacturing might be fulfilling, Tony Gunn provides both information and inspiration. His journey from machinist to global advocate proves that passion, persistence, and perspective can transform not just individual careers, but entire industries.
In a world that runs on manufactured goods, we need more people willing to tell manufacturing’s story. Fortunately, Tony Gunn is doing exactly that: one country, one conversation, and one podcast episode at a time.
