About Me

Turning measurement data into manufacturing certainty

John Foreman

Metrologist & Quality Systems Engineer

I began my journey in metrology in 1990 as a CMM operator after completing a five-year apprenticeship as a toolmaker. Leveraging a strong foundation in computer programming, I quickly advanced into CMM programming—at a time when very few people had experience in it.

During my career I’ve mastered multiple CMM programming environments, including:

  • DMIS with CAMIO and MODUS
  • DEA Spectrum (BASIC and FORTRAN)
  • Nikon/LK Metrology Focus software
  • PolyWorks (lasers and probing)

My software background (VB.NET, C#, Python) has enabled me to build custom quality systems applications throughout my career—from a full quality process tracking system for Chrysler, to one of the earliest REVO system integration tools for CATIA.

I’m passionate about dimensional metrology because it demands constant learning, creativity, and problem-solving. Working in digital design verification and modern quality systems gives me the opportunity to both teach and continue learning every day.

Education

Although I don’t hold formal academic degrees, my career has been built on rigorous hands-on learning—what I jokingly refer to as earning a Master’s and Ph.D. from the “school of hard knocks.”

  • Specialized GD&T training
  • Management education through Chrysler
  • Various metrology and quality seminars

Current Role

Senior Application Engineer – LK Metrology

I provide technical expertise, CMM programming, and consulting on building and improving quality systems for manufacturing organizations across multiple industries.

Over more than three decades in metrology and quality engineering, my work has focused on making complex measurement systems practical, repeatable, and useful for real production decisions.

Past Roles

  • Quality Supervisor – Stellantis Kokomo Casting Plant Managed tool and gauge calibration, metallurgy lab operations, and quality engineering teams.
  • Gage Calibration Coordinator Ensured precision and compliance of measurement devices and systems.

Services

  • Technical support in CMM programming and metrology software
  • Consulting on quality systems setup, digital workflows, and optimization
  • Mentorship for new or developing metrology professionals
  • Collaboration on integrating AI into metrology workflows for improved efficiency and insight

Editorial Approach at Metrology Central

Metrology Central content is based on hands-on field experience, practical engineering workflows, and technical review before publication. The goal is to publish material that quality professionals can apply immediately in real manufacturing environments.

  • Focus on practical implementation, not marketing language
  • Clear distinction between evidence, assumptions, and recommendations
  • Preference for repeatable methods and validated workflows
  • Continuous updates as tools, standards, and best practices evolve

Skills & Expertise

  • CMM Programming: CAMIO, MODUS, PolyWorks
  • Programming: Python, VB.NET, C#
  • Advanced Measurement Systems: CMMs, laser systems, 5-axis REVO probing
  • GD&T and Precision Measurement
  • Gauge Calibration & Quality Systems
  • AI Integration: Applying machine learning and automation concepts to modern metrology challenges

Metrology Central is hosted on GitHub Pages and maintained as a resource for the metrology and quality community.