Marcus Bowman Crotts
Machine Tool Distributor
Founder
AMT Albert W. Moore Leadership Award
2016
My father’s work as a machinist and his drive to be accurate inspired me to learn more about machining and engineering. For almost 60 years, I have been saying manufacturing creates wealth and this concept is not well understood by those outside the industry.
For 57 years Mr. Crotts led Crotts & Saunders Engineering, Inc., a full-service machine tool distributor. Through his leadership, the company has become nationally recognized for its impact on manufacturing processes through improved basic design methodologies.
Throughout his career, he has spearheaded numerous educational, technical and civic organizations to promote the professional development of engineers and machinists. Mr. Crotts is internationally recognized for his service and contributions to engineering and civic affairs to encourage high moral values in all vocations and peace throughout the world.
His wife Margo provided him with vital support and encouragement as he founded and managed Crotts & Saunders Engineering for over 50 years.
Career History
Mark is a veteran of the Korean War and served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Air Force from 1949 to 1953 at Chanute Air Force Base.
At the age of 24, he and Charlie Saunders co-founded Crotts & Saunders Engineering, a machine tool distributor. Crotts & Saunders Engineering has since been recognized as one of the most outstanding distributorships in the United States. He retired from Crotts & Saunders Engineering in 2014.
Education
James A. Gray High School, Winston-Salem – 1949
B.S. Mechanical Engineering, North Carolina State University- 1953
M.S. Mechanical Engineering, University of Illinois – 1956
Awards
- Albert W. Moore Leadership Award 2016 by AMT
- Society of Manufacturing Engineers International Award of Merit
- California Society of Professional Engineers “Archimedes Engineering Achievement Award”
- University of Illinois Distinguished Graduate Award
- Watauga Medal – NC State University – Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004
- Appointed by Governor Jim Martin to the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management Authority
- Rotary International Service Above Self Award in 1992
- “Engineer of the Year” in 1985 by the North Carolina Society of Engineers