About Us

Rob brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Direc Machine Tool Wisconsin from his vast CNC background and Management skills to his unyielding “customer first” attitude. Rob has over 22 years in machining and Tool and Die making experience working at Ehlert Tool and Carlson Tool. He has spent 4 years as a Senior Application Engineer and trained over five hundred machinists. He is well versed in everything from 5-axis programming to knowledge of cutting tools and work holding. Rob’s experience lends itself to guiding his customers in the right direction for the best outcome. His dedication and hard work put in to solving each customer’s unique manufacturing requirements has enabled him to offer large manufacturers and small shops alike the tools they need to become more successful. Thorough understanding of 3-axis Horizontal and Vertical Machining Centers, 2-axis Lathes, 5-axis 3+2 positioning Machining Centers. • Major strengths in planning, problem solving and communication. • Honest, friendly, outstanding communication skills. • Highly imaginative with many innovative ideas. • Over 30 years' experience in machining. •Experienced with Fanuc, Selca, Creative Evolution, Acramatic, DynaPath, Mitsubishi, Anilam, Hurco, Milltronics, Fidia and Heidenhain controls. Program and Model with Powermill, Mastercam, Cimetron.

Joe is an organized and initiative-taking supervisor with 20 PLUS years of experience in mechanical/maintenance. His ability to collaborate well with a team of employees, while clearly communicating, and delegate tasks helps to increase productivity and keep his team safe. Joes Working History Includes: Industrial Maintenance Supervisor; Oversee all of maintenance department for the organization; Repair and maintain all CNC machines within the organization; Perform machine installations, setups, and organize plans with the machinery dealers for the installation of new machines; Ordered parts; Implemented maintenance software to track machine down times as well as cost; Diagnose and service a wide variety of CNC machines; Rigging Foreman; Relocate machines for customers which included inhouse moves as while as throughout the United States; Coordinate plant moves for customers; Disassemble, reassemble, move, and transport a wide variety of machines with reinstallation; Complete routine machine maintenance for customers; Work with a wide variety of machinery companies providing installation of products.

Rick brings a client-driven mindset and first class follow up and communication. Rick has over 20 years of experience in shipping, inside sales, outside sales and specializes in EDM consumables, CNC Tooling and Gaging. Some of Rick’s highlights include Northern Territory Manager; Attention to detail; Dedicated and driven; 2016 Employee of the Year award; Award for outstanding customer commitment; Shipping and Receiving Traffic manager; Supervised warehouse crew; Trouble shooting and problem solving; Proven history in sales and results. Rick is a motivated and results-focused employee with a high degree of integrity and an outstanding work ethic!

Nichole Deck, our Operations Manager with over a decade of machine tool and manufacturing experience. Her background of overseeing inside sales, marketing, service, logistics, and customer service ensures order precision and customer satisfaction. Proficient in SalesForce, she excels in data management and reporting, maintaining the organization's operational efficiency. Some of Nichole’s highlights include Drive to learn and enhance processes continually; Sales, service and applications support background; Attention to detail; Independent and self-motivated; Marketing/Event planning and execution; Goal and task-oriented; Visionary and coaching leadership approach. With exceptional communication and dedication, Nichole builds positive relationships with colleagues and clients.

John brings over 10 years of experience in Machinery and Consumables sales to Direc Machine Tool. He has a passion for supporting American Manufacturing and works according to his customers’ schedules to deliver solutions on a timely basis. Collaborating with customers to understand their goals and priorities guides John’s approach to providing the best possible customer experience. One longtime customer recently described him as being ‘attentive but not pushy’ which perfectly describes his goal of working to provide the best products and services to increase customers’ productivity and profitability. Whether you’re looking for a new or used machine, tooling, or EDM Consumables, working with John will provide the elusive combination of value and attention to detail that will make Direc one of your favorite vendors.

Mike brings nearly a decade of sales experience in manufacturing and construction and is committed to making every interaction positive and valuable. Competitive by nature, Mike’s career is driven with passion for delighting the customer with exceptional service and top-quality products. Whether you are running a small shop or a large-scale operation, his dedication to your success makes him the ideal partner to help you thrive. Join Mike on a journey where business meets genuine care and experience how his customer-centric approach will ensure you feel supported and satisfied.

Scott Gilbert is a seasoned sales engineer with over three decades of experience in the machine tool industry, specializing in CNC and precision manufacturing solutions. As the Absolute Machine Tool Product Manager for Direc Machine Tool, he brings a deep understanding of machining technologies, helping manufacturers optimize their operations with high-quality imported equipment, including You Ji VTLs, Johnford mills and lathes, Nexturn Swiss lathes, and more. Scott’s career has been defined by his ability to build strong client relationships, drive sales growth, and provide solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity. With a track record of success across leading machine tool companies—including leadership roles at Makino, Hydromat, Morris Midwest, and Mikron—he has developed expertise in direct sales, distribution management, and business development. Whether working with small shops or large-scale manufacturing operations, Scott's consultative approach ensures that customers receive the best-fit technology for their needs. His commitment to industry excellence and customer success makes him a trusted partner in the world of precision manufacturing.

Brian is a motivated, results-driven CNC Machinist with extensive experience in CNC machining, set-up & programming of Vertical and Horizontal CNC machines including 5-axis and extensive 3-D contour cutting. Brian has 10 years in Application Engineering operations providing time studies, training of controls and equipment at customer facilities, set up of Machining Centers, Grinders, Hole Poppers, EDM, Lathes and Micro-Vu machines with Calibrations. Brian is comfortable training and helping new and experienced operators maximize the potential of the equipment they are running. He has spent over 25 years as a top tier machinist at high end shops like Carlson Tool, Versevo and Milwaukee Electric Tool. Ample experience with MasterCam, PowerMill and controls like Fanuc, Mitsubishi, Milltronics, Mazatrol and Heidenhein.