Spotlight on: Aneesa Muthana
Aneesa Muthana is CEO and co-owner of not one manufacturing company, but two. Pioneer Service Inc., located in the Chicagoland area, is a contract manufacturer specializing in precision Swiss parts and centerless grinding. It has been a Chicago-land staple since its founding in 1993, and continues to serve countless industries. M&M Quality Grinding, also located in Chicago, offers exceptional bar stock and bar processing services to customers across North America.
The two companies are impressive, but not so much as their CEO. Muthana is a manufacturing giant. She is a contributing writer to Modern Machine Shop, and her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal and Deloitte. As a keynote speaker, Muthana has delivered addresses to audiences in such venues as The University of Notre Dame and IMTS on team dynamics, data-driven automation, and personal authenticity. Her most popular works address diversity, equity, and inclusion (DIE). Mastercam extends its warmest thanks to Aneesa for sharing her thoughts and experiences in celebration of International Women’s Day.
What do you do at Pioneer and M&M?
AM: As CEO and co-owner of Pioneer Service Inc. since 1993, I’ve been at the helm, steering our company towards excellence in our field. I have also returned to the family business recently (September 2021) as CEO and co-owner of M&M Quality Grinding, Inc. We are a provider of precision centerless ground bar stock and a wide variety of bar processing services. The facility is ISO 9001:2015 certified. Our team brings extensive experience in tight tolerances, fast turns, and exceptional quality requirements to CNC turning or CNC Swiss operations.
What made you decide to join the manufacturing industry?
AM: Growing up in a manufacturing environment instilled in me a deep-rooted passion for the industry. What began as a young girl’s determination to contribute more significantly than just performing clerical duties evolved into a lifelong mission to be part of an industry that brings people together to make something that will go on to serve a bigger purpose.
What are some of the most memorable challenges you’ve faced along the way?
AM: Back at the beginning of my career and now, I would say the greatest external challenge is dealing with people who cling to their own assumptions about someone else’s appearance or background. Other than that, just like many CEOs in the machining industry, the challenges include workforce development, operational efficiency, and staying up to speed with innovation.
What are your favorite parts about working in manufacturing?
AM: The knowledge that the parts we produce can help save lives is profoundly rewarding. I also am grateful for every outreach opportunity to women and youth groups about how U.S. manufacturing has a place for all everyone. My motto: Everyone has a place in manufacturing. Work hard, and you, your company, and the industry will prosper together.
