In this episode of Lights Out, we sit down with a special guest who embodies both tradition and innovation: Yuto Matsuura, fourth-generation leader of Matsuura Machinery. His story is one of legacy, expectation, and transformation—from the weight of inheriting a century-old family business to finding his own passion for manufacturing and automation.

We talk openly about the realities of stepping into leadership at a young age. Yuto shares how making a life-changing decision at just fifteen felt more like an obligation than a choice—and how, over time, he turned that responsibility into a genuine calling. His journey, marked by international education, personal turning points, and the influence of his grandfather's legacy, highlights what it really means to steward a family company into the future.

From there, we dive into what makes Matsuura unique in the world of automation. Yuto explains why build quality is the foundation of true "lights out" reliability, why five-axis machines aren't just for complex aerospace parts, and why standardization is the hidden key to successful unattended machining. His insights into precision, trust, and process reliability reveal why Matsuura has earned its reputation as one of the world's most respected automation leaders.

Yuto opens up about his vision for the next decade—focusing on people, processes, and ERP-driven efficiency in the face of labor shortages. He reflects on what he's most proud of so far, both personally and for the company, and why building relationships has always been at the heart of Matsuura's success.

This conversation goes beyond machine tools—it's about carrying a legacy, honoring sacrifice, and shaping the future of manufacturing.

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

• (0:27) Investing in ProShop is an investment in your shop
• (2:56) Learn about Yuto Matsuura and his family's four-generation legacy
• (6:26) Making the decision at 15 to commit to Matsuura during Japan's recession
• (8:43) Feeling obligation versus genuine passion in carrying on the legacy
• (11:30) Outside expectations—from classmates to relatives—about his future role
• (13:13) Why his father limited family involvement to one successor
• (14:44) Yuto's education abroad (earning a master's degree in Canada in one year)
• (18:38) The influence of his grandfather's legacy and the promise to honor it through work
• (21:33) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA
• (23:16) Why Matsuura has become synonymous with automation and precision
• (27:38) Real-world examples of reliability: Matsuura machines running 15 years straight
• (30:49) Why five-axis with pallet changers is the foundation of flexible automation
• (34:28) Standardization as the milestone for successful automation adoption
• (37:47) Yuto's vision for the next 10–20 years: ERP, processes, and overcoming labor shortages
• (40:35) Why people and recruiting are as important as technology in manufacturing
• (41:54) What Yuto is most proud of: dealership networks, global partnerships, and digital transformation
• (44:26) How online marketing transformed both Matsuura's reach and his own leadership confidence
• (50:54) "Load the workpiece, push the button, and go home to your family."
• (51:20) Why you should listen to Machine Shop Mastery

Resources Mentioned

• Investing in ProShop is an investment in your shop
• Grow your top and bottom line with CLA
• Why you should listen to Machine Shop Mastery

Connect with Yuto Matsuura

• Matsuura
• Connect on LinkedIn

Connect With Lights Out

• LinkedIn
• MakingChips.com

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