Yoshihiro Katsuda, a member of Okuma's Manufacturing Division, has been selected as one of the 142 recipients of the FY2025 Outstanding Skilled Worker (Contemporary Master Craftsman) award and was honored for his work as an NC lathe operator. This marks the ninth time an Okuma employee has received this prestigious recognition.

Mr. Katsuda has spent many years engaged in NC lathe machining and possesses extensive knowledge and exceptional technical skills. In particular, he has addressed highly demanding machining challenges that require both high accuracy and shorter machining times. His work includes enabling hard turning processes for small-diameter, high-hardness materials after heat treatment by identifying root causes and implementing precise countermeasures for achieving the required accuracy while significantly reducing machining time.
In addition to his technical achievements, Mr. Katsuda has made substantial contributions to the development and training of skilled workers through mentoring and technical instruction for young and mid-career employees, hands-on skills training for technical high school students, and manufacturing workshops for youth.

As a comprehensive manufacturing services company, Okuma will continue to foster a culture that values craftsmanship, nurture outstanding skilled professionals, and contribute to the advancement of manufacturing worldwide.