A Journey from Engineer to Manufacturing Specialist

Martin McCartney proudly serves as a manufacturing consultant at Emixa, where he specialises in postprocessor authoring and CNC digital twin creation. His career journey has been shaped by a deep fascination with technology, engineering, and the mechanics of manufacturing. Transitioning through various roles in the industry, he now works alongside a dedicated team, ensuring customers have the tools they need to excel in modern manufacturing.

A Background Rooted in Engineering

My professional journey began with an SCOTVEC HND in Engineering, completed in the mid-1980s. Encouraged by my father, I embarked on a formal education in engineering after gaining hands-on experience as a semi-skilled machine operator. The decision to focus on CAD and CAM systems stemmed from my early interest in computers and programming, which were just starting to reshape the engineering world. This foundation set the stage for my career and led me to receive the SCOTVEC prize for top marks in Scotland in my course.

A Career Built on Technology and Innovation

After completing my studies, I started working for a startup CAD company that wanted to expand into CAM software, which introduced me to the world of Pathtrace. Over the next 25 years, as Pathtrace was acquired by Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, I became an expert in CAM, solid modeling, and CNC simulation. My experience evolved along with the technology, positioning me as a key player in helping companies navigate the complexities of modern manufacturing systems.

The Switch to Emixa

In 2020, I was offered a chance to work at Emixa, specialising in Siemens NX. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. The appeal was immediate—the mature and stable NX system was the “mega” product I had always envisioned, offering seamless integration across CAD, CAM, and CNC simulation. The company’s commitment to innovation, paired with the freedom to indulge in my passion for machine tools and their potential, sealed the deal.

Delivering Solutions for Modern Manufacturing

At Emixa, my role revolves around developing custom postprocessors for customers and guiding them through the process of implementing these solutions into their manufacturing setups. I recently worked on a project for a Matsuura 5-axis milling machine that had to bridge both legacy and modern programming styles, providing flexibility for the customer’s needs. Whether it's configuring a CAM setup, building a machine kinematic assembly, or training users, my goal is always the same: to provide practical, effective solutions.

Looking Ahead

At 58, I see my career less in terms of growth and more in terms of expanding my knowledge and expertise. I remain excited about the future, particularly the potential for collaborating with colleagues across the wider Emixa group. As the tools and technologies we work with continue to evolve, so too will the solutions we provide.

A Passion for Learning and Collaboration

Every day at Emixa is a new opportunity to learn, teach, and improve. Whether standing alongside a customer as they watch their machine produce a part or deepening my knowledge of the latest software features, my commitment is to deliver results. For me, the pride comes in knowing that my work makes a real difference to the people and businesses we support.

My message to anyone considering a career at Emixa? If you’re passionate about machines and the technology that powers them, Emixa will provide you with the tools and environment to thrive.

Does Martin's story inspire you?

If you're passionate about engineering, technology, and making an impact in the manufacturing world, Emixa could be the perfect fit for you. Check out our vacancies page and explore the exciting career opportunities we have available - join us and be part of the future of manufacturing!