Mitch Free
CEO
Mitch Free is a serial entrepreneur, manufacturing industry maverick, and global trade expert. He currently serves as the founder, chairman, and CEO of two digital manufacturing companies; Fast Radius (www.fastradius.com) and ZYCI CNC Machining (www.zyci.com). Mitch also founded MFG.com in 2000 and served as CEO and Chairman until 2013.
Mitch began his career as an apprentice machinist and developed a passion for applying advanced manufacturing technologies. Northwest Airlines recruited him to develop methods to reverse engineer and produce aircraft parts. Holder of multiple patents, his track record of innovation and leadership quickly led to senior management positions where he oversaw aircraft acquisition and commissioning projects worldwide. The vision for MFG.com propelled Mitch into the world of digital manufacturing where his pioneering work quickly established him as an industry leader.
A dynamic and sought-after presenter, Mr. Free has spoken at Northwestern University, Harvard Business School, Wharton, Fudan University in China, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and appears regularly on various NBC and Fox outlets including CNBC and Fox Business. Because of his involvement in American manufacturing and global trade Mr. Free was selected by the Clinton Global Initiative to help develop strategies to revive American manufacturing.
Mitch is a previous winner of the prestigious Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award and has recently been featured in Start Up Playbook and Makers, the New Industrial Revolution