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Celebrating Excellence: Kennametal's Machinist of the Year Program

In a significant move to honor the craftsmanship and innovation of machinists globally, Kennametal Inc., a renowned leader in metal cutting solutions, has launched its first-ever "Machinist of the Year" program. This annual initiative aims to recognize the unwavering dedication of machinists who play a vital role in the manufacturing sector. The initiative will spotlight talented professionals in regions including the Americas, EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa), APAC (Asia-Pacific), and India.

Kennametal sees machinists as the backbone of the manufacturing industry. According to Eddie McBarnett, Kennametal's Vice President of Marketing Strategy, the innovations the company provides are shaped by the requirements of these skilled workers. By providing tools that enhance precision and efficiency, Kennametal empowers machinists, fostering an environment where excellence thrives.

The purpose of the "Machinist of the Year" program extends beyond mere recognition. It serves to celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship of machinists who push the boundaries of what's possible with their skills. Each region will honor one extraordinary machinist, showcasing the best of their local machining talent. Scott Etling, Vice President of Product Marketing Management, emphasizes that this program is more than a competition; it is a tribute to the partnerships and expertise that propel the industry forward.

How to Enter the Competition

Participation in the contest involves a simple yet impactful action. Entrants are encouraged to create a brief video that demonstrates how they utilize Kennametal products in their daily work, along with a compelling case for why they should be crowned "Machinist of the Year." This video should then be shared on the individual's social media platforms, tagging Kennametal and incorporating the hashtag #KMTMachinist. To be eligible, entrants must have actively used Kennametal's tools for a minimum of one year.

Judging will occur in two stages. Initially, regional marketing teams will select finalists based on creativity, craftsmanship, and effective use of Kennametal solutions. Afterward, the public will have the opportunity to vote for the winners on Kennametal's social media channels.

Prizes and Recognition

Each selected regional winner will benefit from a prize package that amplifies their achievement. This includes:

• - Feature exposure on Kennametal's official website, blog, and social media accounts.
• - An award package with exclusive branding and merchandise.
• - A monetary award equivalent to $7,500 in a branded toolbox and Kennametal tools.
• - An invitation to demonstrate their machining skills live at a global trade show, including major expos like IMTS (International Manufacturing Technology Show) and others.
• - Automatic designation as a Kennametal Brand Ambassador, elevating their professional portfolio.

Timeline of the Program

The program will roll out in phases:

• - February 2026: Official program launch.
• - June 2026: Announcement of regional nominees, with voting initiated.
• - September/October 2026: Regional winners will be officially announced during trade shows and online celebrations.

To learn more about participation, submission guidelines, and future updates, interested individuals are encouraged to visit Kennametal's dedicated "Machinist of the Year" webpage.

About Kennametal Inc.

For over 85 years, Kennametal has established itself as a leader in industrial technology, specializing in material science and manufacturing solutions. With a global workforce of approximately 8,100 employees, the company serves nearly 100 countries, assisting customers in sectors such as aerospace, energy, and transportation. In fiscal 2025, Kennametal recorded a revenue of $2 billion, underscoring its commitment to innovation and competitiveness in the manufacturing industry. For further information, check out their official website at kennametal.com. Follow their latest updates on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.