A family-owned, family-run business.
Our team
PRESIDENT & CEO
Joe Pilz
Joe Pilz is the founder and owner of Pilz Machine. Early in his career, Joe worked for several machine shops in the greater Akron/Canton area. Then, in 1983, he started Pilz Machine out of the basement of his own home, building it into the thriving business that it is today. He and his wife Melodi have nine grandchildren, all of whom are actively involved in their lives. In his spare time, Joe enjoys motorcycles, golfing, and is an active member of his church.
VICE PRESIDENT
Chris Pilz
Chris Pilz is Pilz Machine’s Vice President and has been with the company for almost 20 years. He holds an associate degree in industrial science and has advanced expertise in CAD-CAM and creating complex tool paths. Chris manages the day-to-day operations of the business, conducts quality control, and manages the shop team. He and his wife, Shannon, have two dogs - Winston and Koby - and live in Stow, Ohio. In his spare time, Chris acts as the Treasurer of the German Family Society of Akron, and enjoys golfing and kayaking.
OFFICE MANAGER
Julie Pilz
Julie Pilz is the Office Manager and has been with Pilz Machine for almost eight years. She has a degree in nutrition and experience in customer service. On a day-to-day basis, Julie keeps the staff organized, manages customer inquiries, billing and invoicing, and other HR functions. Julie’s two children, Max and Piper, often accompany her to work. In her spare time, Julie enjoys making jewelry and crafting, spending time with her kids, traveling, and networking.
EXECUTIVES-IN-TRAINING
Max & Piper
It might be their confidence. It might be their enthusiasm. It might be their love of family, but one thing we know for sure is that these two executives-in-training are going far, and we want to be there to see it happen. They’re always available to provide a second opinion or creativity when it comes to… well, everything. As the third generation of family at Pilz Machine, Max and Piper bring joy and energy to every day.
How it all started…
