Lary Shoemaker has over 20 years of hands-on experience in the precision machining and advanced manufacturing industry and over 15 years working as an instructor in these areas. He is an expert trainer in the areas of precision machining, manufacturing basics, CAD/CAM, CNC, and Pre-engineering.
He began his career with Paragon Die and Engineering as a machinist apprentice and later became a journeyman machinist and master machine builder. Lary later held the position of Plant Manager at Highlight Industries where his responsibilities grew to include the management of mechanical and electrical engineering, purchasing, inventory, and quality. During this time, Lary worked with the U.S. Dept. of Labor to develop the company's registered apprenticeship programs for machinist and welding.
In 1997 Lary was hired by Grand Rapids Community College, Business and Technical Training group as a Training Specialist of manufacturing and precision machining. Since 1999 Lary has been teaching industrial education at Byron Center High School. He was hired to teach and develop the fledgling industrial education program. He was instrumental in planning the new facility, specifying precision machines, CAD/CAM software, and curriculum development. His teaching load includes CAD, CAM, CNC, Drafting, Blueprint Reading and Pre-engineering.