Have you ever felt like the traditional path of working harder to get ahead isn't the answer? In this episode, Ryan Bankel, founder of Imago Precision Machining, shares the story of how he built his business from the ground up. 

What started in a garage has grown into a company with a strong focus on sustainability and automation. Ryan talks about how he carefully crafted his shop’s operations to run smoothly, even without him being physically present. His goal? Time freedom—not just for himself, but for his employees, too.

As a self-taught machinist, Ryan didn’t follow the traditional path of learning in a formal setting. Instead, he honed his skills on the job, navigating the challenges of running a business while staying true to his vision. 

He reflects on the tough early years, working long hours to make ends meet and building a company that would eventually allow him the flexibility he always dreamed of. Through trial and error, he developed a model that works for him—a model that combines quality, innovation, and a commitment to time freedom.

What stands out about Ryan’s journey is his approach to business growth. Unlike many entrepreneurs who focus on scaling for the sake of growth, Ryan has embraced a model that values sustainability and keeping the business at a manageable size. Ryan’s model prioritizes not just technology and automation, but also a strong shop culture and a sustainable pace of growth, challenging the common belief that bigger is always better.

His approach ensures that his shop maintains a strong, close-knit culture, while still embracing modern technologies and automation. Ryan’s story is a powerful example of how success doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your values or your time.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• (0:00) Introduction to Ryan Bankel
• (0:31) Why you need to take the Modern Machine Shop Top Shop Survey
• (3:38) Our tour of the Imago shop (including the suave bathroom)
• (6:53) How we connected with Ryan on LinkedIn
• (12:13) Ryan’s journey into metalworking 
• (21:59) From running a shop to launching Imago
• (24:42) The significance of Ryan’s decision to keep his shop small
• (29:30) Bringing in new technology & keeping employees engaged
• (33:03) What “time freedom” means for Ryan
• (37:24) Ryan’s evolving vision for his business: What’s next?
• (39:11) Stay tuned for part 2 to learn how Ryan runs his business lights out
• (40:57) Why you need to check out the MakingSparks podcast 

Resources & People Mentioned

• Machine Shop MBA: How to Become a Top Shop
• Complete the Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey

Connect with Ryan Bankel

• Imago Manufacturing 
• Connect on LinkedIn

Connect With Lights Out

• LinkedIn
• MakingChips.com

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Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK