In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman sits down with Roger Atkins, President of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA). Roger shares his remarkable journey—from sweeping floors in his father’s Houston machine shop to leading a national organisation of over 1,000 small and medium-sized manufacturers.

Mark and Roger discuss::

• Manufacturing Roots: Growing up in the shop, discovering purpose, and falling in love with the craft.

• Resilience in Business: Navigating oil downturns, 9/11, and economic uncertainty while keeping businesses alive.

• Community Power: Why peer groups and associations like NTMA are lifelines for owners.

• Precision & Innovation: How small shops quietly power rockets, aircraft, and national security.

• Succession & Legacy: Why every business owner needs a plan, and how failing to prepare risks employees, families, and the future.

Connect with Mark Dorman:

• Succession Plus US

• LinkedIn: Mark Dorman

• LinkedIn: Succession Plus

• Facebook: Succession Plus

• (330)-416-9271

• mdorman@succession.plus

About the Guest:

Roger Atkins is the President of NTMA, representing small and medium-sized manufacturers across the U.S. With decades of leadership experience, he is dedicated to helping owners grow, sustain, and transition their businesses with purpose.