About Us
After 42 years of U.S. and international management of companies and sales in the Machine Tool industry, I have formed this company to use my know-how and experience for my and your mutual benefit.I have negotiated domestic (U.S.A.) and international contracts from $200,000 to $8,000,000 and I am familiar with payment terms, Letter of Credits, freight forwarders and general pitfalls in international business for Machine tools. Having been involved in opening and closing small companies in Europe (Belgium and Germany) as well as investigated in detail, start-ups in England and China, I can give you general advice, or work as your representative to form a company. Some of my advice may not be what you expected and I may point out more problems than painting you a rosy picture.
Who I Am:
I was born in East Germany and received my primary education and apprenticeship as an Aircraft Engine Mechanic. After immigrating to the United States, in 1967 I received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Bradley University in Illinois. I was a member of ??S, an honorary fraternity for Mechanical Engineers.In 1967, I joined Caterpillar Tractor in the Inertia Welding Department and was Managing Director of PTSA (a Belgian subsidiary of Caterpillar Tractor) from 1973 to 1976. In 1976, I joined Manufacturing Technology, Inc. as Vice President and General Manager. MTI is specializing in all forms of Friction Welding equipment. The company was transformed from a relatively small local manufacturing operation into a recognized global company with worldwide sales. MTI exported over 50% of its machinery in the last 3 years. Currently, I work for MTI in an advisory capacity.
I hold three patents in Friction Welding applications and was a past Chairman of AWS C6 Committee on Friction Welding, and various AWS and SME Committees for its handbooks.
I am bilingual with contacts in Europe, China as well as Brazil. If you need help in either forming a company, finding a sales agent or finding customers and suppliers, I can help. I can put you in touch with the right people and give you preliminary information.
Friction Welding - Global Trade LLC,Niles, MI 49120
USA
Email: jlf@fw-gt.com