Every great company is powered by people who go above and beyond—not just in their day‑to‑day responsibilities, but in the impact they make on the world around them. Today, we are proud to highlight one of those individuals: Eric Thoreson, whose passion for technology and community education is helping to shape the future of our industry.
A Career Sparked in a Family Machine Shop
Eric’s journey into machining began early. Around 8th grade, Eric started working in his step‑dad’s machine shop, where curiosity quickly grew into skill. After graduating from Mayville High School, he entered the workforce as a punch press operator. He then went on to be a tool and die maker, and eventually became the first machinist at Infinity EDM and Machining (Infinity).
For the past 27 years, Eric has been a cornerstone at Infinity. Today, he serves as a CNC Programmer, Project Manager, and Quoting Lead. Eric is known for his technical expertise and commitment to customer relationships—including many he’s worked with since Infinity’s earliest days. One of his favorite parts of the job is collaborating with customers and helping bring their ideas to life.
A Leader in Tech Education
Outside of Infinity, Eric plays a vital role in supporting the next generation of tradespeople. He serves on the advisory board of Mayville Technology Education, a program that gives high school students real-world exposure to the trades.
Under the leadership of teacher Dave Seiler, the program reached 172 students last year, offering classes in carpentry, electrical work, auto mechanics, machining, and more. Seniors also lead a student‑led business—Mayville Manufacturing—where they take on real customer projects from concept to completion. Students not only learn technical skills, they also lead design thinking, budgeting, timelines, and customer communication.
The students in Mayville Manufacturing have completed numerous projects including creating and selling raised garden beds. Additionally, through a program that Mayville Rotary put together, students built a shed and kayak storage rack that the community can use.
Local industry partners like Eric have been instrumental in Mayville Technology Education. They have offered mentorship, presentations, and opportunities to help students gain hands‑on learning. It has been a valuable experience for both the students and the industry partners. Students can work on real company projects and also come into the work force with relevant knowledge and experience.
Eric is looking forward to helping steer the program for the future. He is excited to help Mayville Technology Education grow, get more equipment, increase company partnerships, and see students learning real life skills that prepare them for meaningful careers.
Why It Matters
For Eric, the Mayville Technology Education is personal. As a Mayville alum—and with his son recently completing the program—he’s proud to give back to the school that helped shape his own path.
Eric is excited to see students not only investigate their interests, but also be able to explore strong, rewarding career opportunities in the trades:
“High schools really push four‑year college on students. Tech school is a great way to go. Tool and die are losing a lot of good people to retirement, and we need good people to replace them.”
His advice for anyone entering the field:
“Stick with one place. Start at the bottom and work your way up. You need to earn your keep. Time, patience, and dedication will get you where you want to go.”
A Lasting Impact
We’re grateful to have Eric on our team and proud to support his work in technical education. His dedication strengthens our company, our community, and the broader industry.