The July issue of Production Machining features 19 young professionals, under the age of 40, working in the precision machined parts industry who were nominated by their peers as people who are making strides toward becoming part of the next generation of leaders and innovators. Each week, I will highlight on of the Emerging Leaders on our blog.

Although Parrish Castor’s background includes a degree in criminal justice, a brief stint playing minor league baseball and then working as an underwriter, he was destined for a career in manufacturing.

“I grew up in a family of manufacturing and engineering,” Parrish says. “My father was an engineer and my grandfather was a tool and die maker.”

Parrish began his career in manufacturing at DaCruz by working in the quality department. He has since been involved in almost every department and getting his hands into all aspects of the business.

He has brought reduced tooling costs to the company by implementing tool inventory control and tool vending machines and has pursued more efficient and reliable tooling that improves cycle times and productivity. By working closely with tooling and equipment suppliers, he regularly investigates machining challenges and has created working relationships with these experts to optimize processes.

DaCruz has recently given Parrish the title of director of quality and technology, giving him the authority to develop standards, manage methods and procedures, process improvements and solve complex problems.

Parrish has attended lean manufacturing and Kaizen training classes, is an active member of PMPA and participates in STEM-focused activities in his community to raise awareness and interest in engineering among youth.

In addition, he regularly volunteers as a judge for the local school robotics team and he facilitates Manufacturing Day at DaCruz for high school students. Parrish is also heavily involved in Multiple Sclerosis charity events throughout New Hampshire and Connecticut.

“His dedication to hard work, commitment to family, his adaptability and his strong personal skills make him a natural leader and a key asset for DaCruz’s future succession plans,” says Victor DaCruz, owner/president of DaCruz Mfg. and Parrish’s nominator.

To read about other Emerging Leaders, click here.