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.

With over 22 years in retail leadership positions, John brings management experience in marketing, operations, human resources and finance.  A native of Paintsville, Kentucky, John is active in the community, serving on several local and charitable boards.

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.

Justin’s career includes tenures with Lockheed Martin’s Missile and Fire Control Division and manufacturing precision aerospace and defense systems for the United States Special Operations Forces. 

He is a graduate of the Vincennes University Haas CNC program, after working 10 years as an oil rig supervisor in eastern Kentucky.

Derek Maynard worked as a recreation instructor for Carl D. Perkins Job Corps for several years prior to enrolling in the HAAS eKentucky Advanced Manufacturing Institute.  Upon successfully completing the eKami 16 week course, Derek was quickly recognized as an asset for the institute. 

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.