About Us
Engineering Innovation. Building Trust. Delivering Performance.
At KD Automation, we don’t just build machines — we build long-term partnerships based on quality, innovation, and reliability.
Portfolio
Who We Are
Based in West Bend, Wisconsin, KD Automation is a full-service systems integrator and manufacturer delivering innovative automation solutions across multiple industries.
Our Vision & Mission
Driving the Future of Smart Manufacturing
Innovation at the Core
We constantly explore new technologies and creative engineering approaches to design automation systems that perform smarter, faster, and more efficiently.
Commitment to Quality
From concept to commissioning, every component we build undergoes rigorous testing to ensure lasting reliability and exceptional performance.
Customer-Centered Solutions
We work closely with our clients to understand their goals and challenges, creating automation systems tailored specifically to their production needs.
Let’s Build the Future of Automation Together
Our Approach & Why Choose Us
Smart Process. Trusted Results.
At KD Automation, we combine technical expertise with hands-on manufacturing to deliver reliable, cost-effective automation systems built around your needs.
Our Approach
We start by understanding your production goals, design custom solutions using advanced tools, build everything in-house for quality assurance, and provide ongoing support to keep your systems running efficiently
Why Choose Us
In-House Manufacturing — Total control over quality and cost.
Experienced Engineers — Decades of proven automation expertise.
Fast Turnaround — Quick delivery and minimal downtime.
Custom-Built Solutions — Designed to perform, built to last.
Meet the team
Dan
CEO
Dan brings more than 30 years of experience in custom machinery design, automation engineering, and complex manufacturing systems integration. Throughout his career, Dan has specialized in developing highly customized automation solutions for applications that many integrators are unwilling or unable to tackle. His expertise spans robotic systems, motion control, welding automation, advanced manufacturing processes, and large-scale custom equipment design. Known for his innovative problem-solving ability and practical engineering approach, Dan has built a reputation for transforming complex production challenges into reliable, high-performance automation systems that improve throughput, quality, and operational efficiency.
Mike
CMO
Mike Fritz leads marketing strategy and growth initiatives at KD Automation as Chief Marketing Officer. With a proven track record of acquiring and scaling manufacturing and automation companies across the Midwest, Mike brings a marketer’s mindset and a founder’s grit to every campaign.
As CMO, Mike is focused on building demand for KD’s custom automation solutions through digital strategy, brand development, and innovative lead generation. He’s personally led marketing efforts that have driven millions in new business and continues to develop systems that keep KD Automation top-of-mind for OEMs and industrial buyers.
Mike has purchased seven machine shops, engineering firms, and fabrication companies across the Midwest, building a diverse and resilient manufacturing portfolio. He’s the author of Optimize Your Team: The Blueprint to Building a Team That Gets Results and a nationally sought-after speaker on marketing, scaling, and building brands that drive revenue.
Terri M.
Office Manager
Terri is her name, spreadsheets are her game. Born & raised in West Bend, WI., Terri joined the KD Automation office team in 2023. When Terri is not at work, you can find her on the high school football field cheering on her boys or chauffeuring them around. Terri is a self-proclaimed “world’s best dog mom”.
Tom B.
Senior Controls Engineer
Our Senior System & Controls Engineer all the way from Ohio. Tom joined KD Automation in early 2023. Tom enjoys traveling with his wife and 2 dogs, whether it’s a short trip back home to Ohio or a weekend camping trip somewhere cozy. Tom is currently our “fun shirt Friday champion”.
Jamason A.
Production Manager
Brad W.
Controls Engineer
Born & raised in Port Washington, WI., Brad has been with KD Automation as our Control Engineer since 2024. Brad enjoys spending his free time with his wife – traveling, camping, & playing Tiddlywinks.
Fun fact – Brad aspired to be a MLB baseball player as a child.
Kelly H.
Machine Builder and Machinist
Born & raised in Sheboygan, WI., Kelly has been with KD Automation since 2018. When Kelly is not grinding that 9-5, he enjoys spending time with his family, fixing up classic cars/trucks, and golfing.
“I really enjoy showing and teaching my daughter about anything and everything. From working on cars and doing house projects, to exploring the outdoors.”
Fun fact – as a kid, Kelly had hopes of becoming an NFL player for the Green Bay Packers.
Dhirender P. (DK)
AI / ML Controls Engineer
Our newest member of KD Automation joined us November 2025 as our AI / ML Controls Engineer. Born in India, DK moved to Wisconsin in 2022. DK finds fun in calculus, applied math, and building algorithms.
When he is away from his screen, you can find him in his garden growing his own food, cooking, playing table tennis or even a game of chess. He also enjoys weightlifting and would love to be a leader in Strongman Champions League (SCL) and eventually participate in world’s strongest man competitions!