In this episode of the Chips and Tips podcast, Tim Paul sits down with Al Whatmough, CEO of Toolpath, to unpack a career shaped by machining, teaching, and building manufacturing software that respects the craft.

Al shares how his early experiences in machine shops, classrooms, and engineering labs influenced his approach to CAM, automation, and leadership. The conversation covers what Toolpath really does, how to explain toolpaths to both machinists and non-machinists, and why productivity gains only matter when they align with how shops actually work.

They also dive into Al’s role in bringing CAM into Fusion, lessons learned from product leadership at Autodesk, and what he is most focused on today as Toolpath grows. From customer value and sustainable growth to mentorship and faith-driven career decisions, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what it takes to build tools machinists can trust.

If you care about CNC machining, CAM workflows, or the future of manufacturing software, this is a conversation worth listening to.