CMW Global Honors Don Clark After 48 Years of Service

Carver Machine Works (CMW Global) proudly honors Don Clark as he transitions into retirement after an extraordinary 48 years of service. Don joined CMW as employee number 007, the seventh hire in the company’s history, and his career at CMW reflects the company’s journey from a small industrial repair shop to an international leader in industrial, aerospace, and defense manufacturing. CMW will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026, and Don’s legacy is woven into every chapter of that history.

 

Don began his career at Carver Machine Works on April 1, 1977, as a craftsman performing welding and machining services. Over the decades, he advanced to shop floor supervisor and ultimately to project manager, playing a pivotal role in CMW’s rebuild business lines, including weld repairs, machining, and reverse engineering.

Don has been known for his versatility and dedication. “Don is willing to wear any hat no matter his current job title or role. His type of work is known for after-hours and weekend ‘hot jobs.’ During these times, Don is always available—be it midnight on a Tuesday or Saturday at lunch. I have seen him swing a hammer, drive a forklift, supply meals, and pray over our team outside and on top of his normal responsibilities,” said Melissa Simons, Vice President of Sales at CMW..

“Throughout his career, Don has been a mentor and a leader, but most importantly, a true friend to everyone who has had the privilege of working with him,” said Tom LaBarbera, Vice President of Operations. “His expertise, wisdom, and unwavering work ethic have played a foundational role in the success of Carver Machine Works. He leaves behind a legacy defined by excellence, dedication, and integrity.”

His career spanned major milestones for CMW, including expansion into new industries like pulp and paper, chemical, and petrochemical; growth into international markets; entry into nuclear, aerospace, and defense sectors; facility expansions; and certification achievements. Don contributed to the company’s success by ensuring high-quality results, mentoring colleagues, and reinforcing CMW’s culture of teamwork, service, and excellence.

Don’s impact extends beyond the professional realm. His son, Izzy Clark, shared at a recent retirement ceremony:

“Dad is a founding father of this business and has played a very important role to take Carver Machine Works to where it is today. He is an excellent problem solver; his wealth of knowledge and experience is unmatched. Dad is kind and likes to associate with his fellow colleagues. He is the hammer and anvil that has forged me into the man I am today, and for that I’m very grateful.”

A natural mentor, Don Clark has trained and guided generations of employees. “I will truly miss Don’s enthusiasm and unwavering work ethic,” added Mark Seelman, Engineering Manager. “He consistently approaches every task with a positive attitude and a willingness to go above and beyond. His dedication and team-first mindset have made a lasting impact, and working alongside him has been a privilege.”

Thoughtfulness has been another hallmark of his time at CMW. As Simons recounts, “Don looks to have relationships with our team beyond the workplace. He is always there to console when there is personal loss. He looks to brighten people’s day—gifting honey from his bees, sharing baby plants that he has rooted, sharing wood carvings from his latest hobby, sharing stories about his family and travels.”

Don’s focus on service over self has left a lasting impact on CMW’s culture. “I can slam him with eight jobs at one time, and all he does is smile and tell me what a great job I am doing. He sees the big picture and knows that him being busy means the shop will then be busy, resulting in success for CMW and our team,” said Simons.

As Don steps back from full-time work, he will continue mentoring CMW’s next generation of engineers, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity in quality, service, and culture.

“Don’s history at CMW is CMW’s history,” said Lindsey Crisp, President of CMW Global. “He’s a founding father of our rebuild business and an almost five-decade backbone of the company. We are grateful for his service and excited to see him remain a guiding presence as he transitions into this next chapter.”