Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Mike Born is the Director of Wood Technology at Fender Musical Instruments, where he leverages his extensive expertise in wood processing and product development to drive innovation within the musical instruments industry. With a strong focus on sustainable practices and high-quality craftsmanship, Mike plays a crucial role in shaping Fender's commitment to delivering world-class guitars and other products.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Wood Technology at Fender Musical Instruments since 2011, Mike is responsible for overseeing the selection, procurement, and processing of all wood materials used in the company's manufacturing processes. He leads a team of skilled technicians and engineers in optimizing wood-related production methods, ensuring the consistent quality and performance of Fender's iconic instruments. Under Mike's guidance, Fender has significantly improved its sustainable sourcing and manufacturing practices, reducing waste and minimizing the company's environmental impact.
Career Progression
Prior to joining Fender, Mike was the Owner of Alliance Hardwoods, a successful wood processing and distribution company, from 2004 to 2011. In this role, he honed his skills in sourcing, processing, and delivering high-quality wood products to a diverse customer base. Earlier in his career, Mike served as the General Manager at Hardwoods Specialty Products, where he gained valuable experience in managing large-scale wood processing operations and developing innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Academic Background
Mike holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Wood Science and Technology from the University of California, Davis, where he graduated with Distinction. His academic focus on the science and engineering of wood materials has provided a strong foundation for his career in the musical instruments industry.
Areas of Expertise
- Wood processing and manufacturing
- Sustainable sourcing and supply chain management
- Product development and innovation
- Team leadership and operational optimization
- Industry-specific technical knowledge and problem-solving
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Mike has been recognized for his contributions to the wood processing and musical instruments industries. He has authored several industry-leading articles on sustainable wood practices and has been invited to speak at numerous conferences and trade shows. Under Mike's leadership, Fender has achieved significant reductions in wood waste and energy consumption, demonstrating the company's commitment to environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
With over 30 years of experience in the wood processing and musical instruments industries, Mike Born is a respected leader and innovator. As the Director of Wood Technology at Fender Musical Instruments, he continues to drive the company's efforts to deliver high-quality, environmentally-conscious products that cater to the diverse needs of musicians worldwide.
