REM Surface Engineering marks CEO’s 20th anniversary
REM Surface Engineering, a global leader in advanced surface finishing solutions, is celebrating the 20th work anniversary of its President and CEO, Justin Michaud. Over the past two decades, Michaud has driven the company’s technological evolution, expanded into new industrial sectors, and significantly broadened its global footprint.
Michaud joined the family-owned enterprise in 2006, continuing a legacy of innovation started by his grandfather, Robert Michaud, in 1965. He began as Corporate Special Projects Manager, then served as Director of Operations from 2009 and Vice President from 2012 until his appointment as President and CEO in 2017.
Throughout his twenty-year tenure, Michaud has worked across every business segment of the organisation. Under his leadership, REM has expanded its application portfolio, supporting surface finishing advancements in metal Additive Manufacturing, aerospace, defence, and wind turbine gearbox OEM sectors.
A defining pillar of Michaud’s leadership has been the company’s strategic physical expansion to better serve industrial hubs. REM opened a dedicated facility in Merrillville, Indiana, positioning the company in the Midwestern manufacturing corridor to support aerospace, automotive, and heavy machinery partners. Michaud also oversaw the addition and expansion of REM’s European operations in Germany, strengthening its ability to deliver localised technical support and advanced surface engineering solutions.
“I have had the privilege of working at REM under the leadership of two generations of the Michaud family and was part of the transition team mentoring Justin as he took the reins,” stated Lane Winkelmann, Vice President of Technology, “As the years have passed, I have been very proud of his growth into the CEO position and the growth of REM under his leadership. Justin recognised the potential of Additive Manufacturing very early and struck a new course for REM, ensuring our position in this new and growing industry for years to come. I did not think it was possible, but Justin’s passion for REM matches step-for-step the passion I saw in his father, Mark. REM has a bright future with this generation at the helm. Congratulations on twenty years of service.”
Beyond his work at REM, Michaud has authored numerous technical papers on Additive Manufacturing, isotropic superfinishing, gear failure modes, and surface textures. He is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Motion + Power Manufacturers Alliance (MPMA).
Want to learn more about REM? Read our article about how the company’s advanced surface finishing technology supports the advanced AM developed in NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory here.
