Kathy Walker, a local entrepreneur, is the Founder and Director of the Haas eKentucky Advanced Manufacturing Institute, an advanced manufacturing training center based in Paintsville, Kentucky.

In addition to her executive career in the energy and banking industries, Kathy serves on several public and private boards.

Kathy holds a Master of Business Administration from Xavier University.  She and her husband, local attorney Marvin Walker, have two children, Bryan and Alessandra.

Barbie Bussey is from Johnson County, Kentucky. She graduated from Morehead State University and Liberty University. As a Paralegal for 20 years she worked closely with leaders of the coal industry, local educators and hospital corporations. Rooted in Eastern Kentucky, Barbie has a passion for eKAMI. She has worked closely as a community member with the institute since 2016. As Executive Director she will work to continue the mission to re-skill our talented workforce in Appalachia and attract industry to our area.

Paula has 30 years of experience in business administration, including accounting, human resources, and supply and distribution.  Active in her community, she has been instrumental in assisting with the development of the eKentucky Advanced Manufacturing Institute.

Mike’s career stems from his service in the United States Army.  Mike proudly served his country for 18 years in the armed forces. Upon completion, he went on to work as a Correctional Sergeant in the Department of Corrections of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Mike is a graduate of the eKAMI CNC Program.  His strong work ethic and leadership have made him a valuable asset for the future machinists here at eKAMI.

Jeremy Daniel is a graduate of the first class of eKAMI. His previous experience includes 12 years in the environmental and construction industry. Upon completion of the machinist program, Jeremy went on to work for Lantech in Louisville, KY. While there, he furthered his experience as a lathe and mill operator and quickly advanced to team lead of roller cell. Jeremy’s hard work and dedication have paved the way in the workforce for future eKAMI graduates.

Buford Owens is an 30 year resident of Eastern Kentucky. The coal mines attracted Buford to Eastern Kentucky where he worked for over 30 years as a coal miner before being laid off. He was not ready for retirement and with a family to support, he chose to take another career path. Buford is a graduate of the first class of Machinist from HAAS eKAMI in Paintsville. 

Because of his belief in the program and profession, he chose to stay with HAAS eKAMI. Buford is an Instructional Assistant and a definite example for all of the students.​ ​He has represented HAAS eKAMI through personal invitation at the Whitehouse and is influential in making known the need for economic development in the Eastern Kentucky area, where the hard workers reside.

Earl Fitch was born and raised in Johnson County, Kentucky. Coal Mining was a way of life for his family. Earl was employed by the Coal Mines and was a surface mechanic, eventually impacted by the declining coal industry. After being laid off, Earl made the decision to advance in a new career and was afforded the opportunity to be a part of the first class at HAAS eKAMI. After graduation, Earl chose to become a part of the positive impact HAAS eKAMI has on Eastern Kentucky families.  Earl still resides in Johnson County and enjoys the position of Instructional Assistant at HAAS eKAMI.