06/15/2026
Michael Cinquemani: Celebrating 40 Years of Leadership and Legacy in the Industrial Power Transmission Industry
THE FORK IN THE ROAD
Forty years ago, at just 22 years old, a young graduate faced a defining "fork in the road." Armed with an engineering background and eyes set on design roles at giants like Ford and HP, chance intervened. An interview for a sales engineering role introduced Michael to a sector he didn't even know existed: the power transmission (PT) industry. Choosing that path sparked a brilliant four-decade journey. For those of us who’ve been fortunate enough to work with Michael over the last four decades, we’re thrilled with the path and the shared experiences. On the other hand, that choice has robbed us all seeing Michael fronting, in his words, “a moderately successful band” specializing in 70s and alternative rock (and, if you know Michael, you know he’d skip 80s rock altogether!).
THE ULTIMATE BET: GROWTH & INNOVATION
When looking back at a decorated career, one business milestone stands above the rest: the high-stakes decision to "bet everything" on the successful purchase of Master and Reeves, bringing the two premium brands together under one new umbrella which is Master PT. By assembling a world-class leadership team and refusing to back down, that massive risk secured the company’s future and cemented Michael’s professional legacy.
Over the past 16 years, Michael has guided Master PT through a profound evolution—shifting the company from simply maintaining a proud tradition to becoming an engine of innovation and high-velocity growth.
A LEGACY BUILT ON PEOPLE & FAMILY
Through every market shift and technological evolution, one unwavering guiding principle has remained at the center of Michael’s leadership style: It is all about the people. Michael believes deeply that while the mechanical work of PT is vital, the human connections behind it matter most.
That belief extends heavily to family. Michael’s journey was only possible because of a shared leap of faith:
· His wife, Susan: The rock of the operation, who agreed to bet everything they had to make the Master purchase a reality.
· His children, Emily & Anthony: Who navigated growing up with a heavily traveling dad with grace and ease. Today, that family bond continues to enrich the business with the experience of working alongside Anthony proving to be a very fun part of the business.
LOOKING FORWARD: ADVICE TO THE NEXT GENERATION
Even with 40 very successful years under his belt, the next several years in the business keep Michael very engaged and interested. As Master PT prepares for a dramatic leadership transition over the next decade, Michael draws on his years of experience, and his advice to the rising talent is both grounded and forward-thinking:
· Anchor to Principles: Stay true to the core values that built the company. You don't have to chase every passing industry fad.
· Customer Obsession: Stay incredibly close to your customers. Focus relentlessly on products and services that hit the target—and occasionally surprise them.
· Trust the Talent: The company's future is blindingly bright, driven by an exceptional pipeline of upcoming talent and product growth.
TWO FINAL THOUGHTS
1. Some rules are meant to be broken. After 30 years in the industry, Michael did break one strict rule by embracing brussel sprouts after a visit to The Wrigley in Corbin, KY. If brussel sprouts aren’t on your list of go-to vegetables, The Wrigley might change your mind, too!
2. Michael is adamant that after his family, Master PT (the people and customers) are the greatest thing in his life.
Michael, words can’t accurately convey what you mean to those of us who work with you. We’re all better for the opportunity, the leadership, and the friendship. Thanks to you and Susan for betting on Master PT and giving us the opportunity to build something special with you. Congrats on 40 years and thank you for everything!
