Udo's Modern Angle Third-Generation Manufacturing Leadership Driving Innovation
Why Second- and Third-Generation Manufacturing Leaders Are Driving the Industry’s Biggest Innovations
Modern Engineering didn’t start with automation, CNC technology, or digital systems.
It started in 1978, when Udo’s father took over the company with a simple mission: build quality parts, do honest work, and take care of customers. Back then, manufacturing looked very different.
Processes were manual. Machines were mechanical. Documentation lived on paper. Growth came from reputation, relationships, and showing up every day willing to solve problems.
That foundation mattered. It created a culture of craftsmanship, accountability, and pride that still defines Modern Engineering today. But as the industry evolved, so did we.
Carrying Forward the Craft While Reimagining the Business
When Udo stepped into leadership in 1986, he didn’t try to erase the past. He built on it.
He grew up around the shop and understood machining at a deep level. He knew what it takes to deliver precision under pressure, and he respected the systems that had been built over decades. At the same time, he saw opportunity.
Opportunity to modernize workflows.
Opportunity to invest in automation.
Opportunity to rethink how engineering, production, and quality work together.
Under Udo’s leadership, Modern Engineering transformed from a traditional machine shop into a forward-thinking manufacturing partner with the technology to stand behind its promises.
We expanded our high-precision capabilities. We implemented smarter processes. We embraced automation and advanced equipment. We diversified into multiple industries.
Most importantly, we aligned people, process, and technology to build a more resilient and scalable operation. Innovation wasn’t about chasing trends. It was about creating a better way to work for our team and for our customers.
A New Generation, A New Sensibility
Today, Modern Engineering is entering its next chapter. Simone is being mentored to take the helm, representing the third generation of leadership. Like Udo, Simone grew up around the business. But she also brings a new sensibility shaped by a different world — one defined by digital tools, sustainability, transparency, and human-centered leadership.
She sees manufacturing not just as production, but as an ecosystem where culture, customer experience, data, and technology matter and work collaboratively. Simone is helping push Modern Engineering toward:
- Greater automation and integration
- Stronger internal alignment
- Modern systems and workflows
- A more intentional focus on company culture
- A clearer, more collaborative customer experience
Why This Matters to the Industry
Across manufacturing, second- and third-generation leaders are driving some of the biggest innovations we’re seeing today. They bring together two powerful perspectives: Respect for the craft and a willingness to challenge the status quo. They don’t accept “this is how we’ve always done it” as a strategy. They ask:
- How can we remove friction?
- Where can automation improve quality and consistency?
- How do we make this easier for our people?
- How do we become a better partner for our customers?
They think in systems, not silos. They understand that modern manufacturing success depends on alignment between engineering and production, between leadership and operators, and between capability and customer expectations.
Building the Future from Inside the Shop
Manufacturing’s next chapter isn’t being written by outsiders. It’s being led by families and teams who have lived it and who are choosing to transform it from within.
At Modern Engineering, we’re proud of where we started in 1978. We’re proud of how we’ve evolved under Udo’s leadership. And we’re excited about where Simone will take us next.
By blending craftsmanship with innovation, and experience with fresh perspective, we’re building a manufacturing company designed for the future while honoring the values that built it.
That’s what generational leadership makes possible.