Jim Ellison

Jim Ellison is the Founder and CEO of Ellison Technologies, Inc. (Ellison). Ellison is a holding company operating 20 machine tool distributions and manufacturing technology providers across the U.S. and a facility in the Czech Republic. The Ellison Companies serve manufacturing companies globally by providing comprehensive manufacturing solutions including; machinery, automation, tooling, fixturing, training support and technical services.
Jim is a native Californian who grew up in the Bay area. He graduated from UC Berkeley in 1962 and began his work experience with Cincinnati Milling & Machine Company (now Cincinnati Milacron) in Ohio. In 1968, he returned to California and stepped in to take the reigns from his ill father and at 27 became the President of Ellison Machinery Company.

Both distributors and builders have sought his leadership. Jim has served as the past Director of AMT (The Association for Manufacturing Technology) and the past Chairman of AMTDA (American Machine Tool Distributors Association). To attract new blood to the industry, Jim spent three years helping Michigan State University create the U.S.’s first industrial distribution program, developing its curriculum, advising faculty and lecturing to students. While serving as President of YPO (Young President’s Organization), he started the MBA mentoring program at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management. Jim was voted Entrepreneur of the Year in 1998 by Ernst & Young, LLP.