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January 16, 2025

Heat Treat Today is privileged to oversee the 40 Under 40 recognition awards highlighting a group of rising young leaders in the North American heat treat industry every year. The Class of 2024 is a high-achieving, motivated, and heart-felt group of significant contributors to the heat treat market. Here are two highlights from this year’s class.  

Stacy Kreklau, director of production operations at Franklin Brazing and Metal Treating, has utilized her engineering technical expertise, leadership, and business acumen to transform the company's internal production operations, provide significant value to clients, and set a new standard for running a brazing and heat treating facility. Respected for her leadership, process simplification and proactive attitude, she leads a team of 30, including engineering, maintenance, and production staff. She has implemented 86 lean manufacturing projects, resulting in a 51% reduction in variable production expenses and significant process simplification. Her contributions to the brazing and the heat treating industry include optimizing assembly and brazing processes for clients and experimenting with the selective use of hydrogen in continuous belt-controlled atmosphere braze furnaces to precisely control the flow of braze filler material. Stacy is implementing automation at Franklin Brazing that will change the standard for how components are processed and inspected in the brazing industry. She regularly takes on responsibilities outside of her role, seeking to understand the sales aspect of the business and developing close relationships with clients. Read more about Stacy here.

Nick Pilibosian, director of sales and purchasing at Engineered Heat Treat LLC, grew up in the heat treating industry as a third-generation industry professional. His grandfather opened the family heat treat business in 1959, and his father and three brothers carried on the name. Now, he is continuing that legacy with over fifteen years in the industry. He has held key positions in multiple aspects of the family business from Quality to Management to Sales, including roles as metallurgical lab manager and quality supervisor. Today, as director of Sales & Purchasing, he approaches each task with a focus on practical problem-solving, considering various ideas and concerns to make informed decisions. Leading by example, Nick works alongside his coworkers, earning their respect by being an active participant rather than just a directive voice. His extensive background encompasses a comprehensive understanding of engineering, final part production requirements, business, marketing, and materials science. This diverse expertise enables him to adeptly meet the varied needs of clients across multiple sectors. Known for his strong work ethic, passion for learning, and meticulous attention to detail, he is a dedicated leader and influencer who values collaboration, customer service, and the pursuit of continuous improvement. Read more about Nick here.

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