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Greg Sweigert
Owner at Blackout Equipment LLC: Your go-to resource for metalworking machine tools and construction attachments.
Professional Background
Greg Sweigert is a seasoned entrepreneur and a respected figure in the machine tools and manufacturing industry with an impressive career spanning over 39 years. His journey commenced from a young age as he witnessed the challenges faced by his father, a passionate inventor whose groundbreaking idea for a cordless telephone never reached fruition. This early experience fueled Greg's determination to assist innovators and makers, encouraging him to focus his career on connecting individuals and organizations with the tools necessary to transform their ideas into tangible products.
After seven years of hands-on experience working in manufacturing shops while earning his degree, Greg developed a profound appreciation for quality, efficiency, and the intricate dynamics of the manufacturing process. His career path saw him transition into customer service and management for various international machine tool builders and suppliers, where he honed his skills in training field service engineers, managing parts supply chains, and overseeing logistics for machine installations. This diverse background enabled him to build a robust foundation of industry knowledge, essential for his future ventures.
In pursuit of his entrepreneurial dream, Greg founded Blackout Equipment LLC, leveraging his extensive sales experience and deep knowledge of CNC metalworking machine tools. Under his leadership, Blackout Equipment has carved out a niche by offering a wide range of milling machines, cutting tools, and large-scale 3D printers from reputable brands like SHARP, ACRA, Wellsaw, and KENT. He is also focused on providing excellent customer service and technical support, ensuring clients receive the tools they need at competitive prices.
Beyond his business, Greg is devoted to fostering the next generation of manufacturing talents. He actively advocates for manufacturing education at both high school and college levels through his involvement with the Society of Manufacturing Engineers-Chicagoland, where he encourages students to consider careers in manufacturing.
Education and Achievements
Greg's educational background is as impressive as his professional journey. He studied M.B.A. studies with a concentration in Organizational Development at North Park University, maintaining an outstanding GPA above 3.75. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology & Communication from Indiana University—Purdue University Fort Wayne, where he achieved a GPA over 3.5. Additionally, Greg has undertaken General Studies and Engineering courses from prestigious institutions such as Purdue University and Harvard University, further enriching his knowledge and capabilities in the field.
Throughout his career, Greg has held various significant roles. Some notable positions include his tenure as Senior Manager at RACO Industrial Corp/Atherton Machinery and General Manager at Foremost Machinery Corporation. His journey has seen him progress through roles of increasing responsibility, such as Vice President Sales at Cimteq, Inc., and Customer Service Manager at Finn-Power International. His vast experience in sales and customer relations has contributed to the growth and success of multiple organizations, all while expanding his industry expertise.
Achievements
Greg's achievements speak volumes about his commitment to excellence in the machine tool industry. As the owner of Blackout Equipment LLC, he is dedicated to curating a selection of high-quality tools from renowned manufacturers, including Turkish and Italian-built machine tools. His company also sources and sells essential construction equipment attachments, displaying a robust understanding of market needs and customer preferences.
In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Greg is deeply invested in community engagement and education within the manufacturing sector. His efforts to promote manufacturing careers to high school and college students reflect his passion for nurturing a skilled workforce. By participating in various industry professional organizations, he leverages his knowledge and experience to empower aspiring makers and technicians.
Community Involvement
Greg is an active member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers-Chicagoland, where he plays a pivotal role in advocating for vocational education and workforce development in manufacturing. His dedication to mentoring young professionals and students has made a significant impact on the future of the industry, ensuring that a new generation of skilled workers is prepared to take on challenges and innovate within manufacturing and technology sectors.
In summary, Greg Sweigert stands out as a passionate advocate for innovation in manufacturing. From his humble beginnings inspired by his father to becoming the owner of Blackout Equipment LLC, he has continuously worked to improve both the tools and educational opportunities within the industry. His commitment to excellence, lifelong learning, and community engagement make him a notable figure, reflecting the ideals of integrity and service in the manufacturing world.
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