As a 3rd generation Joest family member to head up Imperial Machine & Tool Co., Christian (Chris) has led a significant transformation of the company.

Chris started with the company in 1974, initially learning the business as a machinist and assembly technician. His early years were spent studying the ins and outs of the Imperial manufacturing process. Over time Chris went on to become the “outside sales” person for the company. It was during this time, when the company was primarily focused on manufacturing items and components for the semiconductor industry, that Chris gained a clear understanding of the precision machining and Advanced Manufacturing market. He realized the significant role Imperial could play in the development and advancement of new products and innovations.

In 1988, Chris—along with his brother George—took over the reins of the company at the young age of 28, and thus began a rapid growth phase for Imperial. A natural risk taker and entrepreneur, Chris understood that the path to success was having something that few others in the industry could offer. In Imperial’s case this was an unflinching dedication to quality and customer service combined with outstanding capabilities in manufacturing difficult and challenging materials and complex fabrications. Chris and George expanded the company by building a new facility specifically to meet Imperial’s needs and acquired the latest tools and technology available.

A natural leader, Chris went on to put together a highly skilled and motivated staff that remains focused on bringing emerging technologies and innovations to light. Most recently this has led to the company’s leadership position in Additive Manufacturing via Powder Bed Fusion (3D Metal Printing).

Equally comfortable with other CEOs, scientists and engineers, and machinists and welders, Chris’s teamwork approach has helped propel Imperial to the forefront of Innovation companies. He is a leading proponent of Additive Manufacturing and the positive impact it is having on American manufacturing and technology. A firm believer in the importance of manufacturing for the success of the community, region and country, Chris speaks frequently to industrial and civic groups on the importance of revitalizing our industrial base.    

In addition to his 43-year tenure at Imperial, Chris is an entrepreneur, owner, and active board member of several Technology companies.

Chris enjoys spending his free time on the beaches and bonefish flats of Great Exuma, Bahamas with his wife of 33 years, Diane and his 3 children, all of whom are involved in the family business.  

Board Memberships and Professional Affiliations

Lehigh University Emerging Technologies Network

East Stroudsburg University Committee for Research & Economic Development

North Eastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Council

New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Partnership