Leadership

Dr. Akihiro “Aki” Kitamura represents the third generation of his family to serve as the president of Kitamura Machinery Co., LTD., the premier manufacturer of horizontal, vertical, and 5-axis machining centers. As President, Dr. Kitamura is responsible for overseeing both Kitamura Machinery Japan and Kitamura Machinery USA. Born in Takaoka-City on January 26th, 1959, Dr. Kitamura graduated from Nippon University in March of 1982 and joined the company in 1984 as Chief Engineer. During this period, his post-graduate studies included research at The Institute of Space and Aeronautical Science, The University of Tokyo (today known as The Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo). His research experience provided him with a strong foundation in advanced manufacturing principles, which he later applied to Kitamura’s cutting-edge machining solutions. He became General Manager of Kitamura Machinery USA in 1986 and was promoted to President of that division in 1989. He took on the additional responsibilities of President of Kitamura Machinery Japan in 2003.

Dr. Kitamura sets the strategic direction for research and development that has resulted in the company receiving more than 300 patents and patents pending in precision machining design. Dr. Kitamura is also responsible for setting the vision behind the company motto, “Limitless Creativity,” which underscores Kitamura’s commitment to consistent product development that produces the most technologically advanced and reliable machining centers in the world.

He has elevated the company’s machining centers to new levels of quality, precision, and performance by combining leading-edge research and technology with hands-on attention to detail and craftsmanship. Awarded both a Bachelors and a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering from Nihon University in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Dr. Kitamura received his Doctorate of Philosophy in Engineering from Osaka University In March 2008 and is currently serving as an Affiliate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Chubu University.