The Journey to CEO Success: A Conversation with Tanya DiSalvo
In a special episode of The Journey to CEO Success podcast, host Melissa Saunders and entrepreneur Patrick Thean welcomed their very first guest, Tanya DiSalvo, CEO of Criterion Tool, a third-generation precision machining shop based in Cleveland, Ohio. Tanya shared insights into her leadership journey, the challenges of running a family business, and the lessons she has learned along the way.
Precision Machining in No-Failure Industries
Criterion Tool specializes in manufacturing high-precision components for critical industries, including medical devices, aerospace, photonics, and weapons systems—what Tanya calls the “no-failure industries.” In these fields, the margin for error is virtually nonexistent. To ensure quality, Criterion Tool integrates multiple verification and inspection processes to eliminate risk before components ever reach the end user. Whether it’s a medical implant, an aerospace component, or a defense part, Tanya and her team take pride in delivering flawless precision.
From Sales to CEO
Tanya didn’t always envision herself leading the family business. She graduated from Bowling Green State University and started her career in sales, working in membership sales, the beverage industry, and Dale Carnegie Training before transitioning into the automotive aftermarket. It wasn’t until Criterion Tool needed a salesperson that Tanya saw an opportunity to step into the company her father led. Instead of being recruited, she sent in her resume just like any other applicant.
Upon joining Criterion Tool, Tanya immersed herself in the business, spending a year on the shop floor to learn the technical aspects of precision machining. She moved from sales to operations and eventually took over the company, officially purchasing it from her father in 2010. While the transition was seven years in the making, it was her willingness to learn, adapt, and embrace change that positioned her for success.
Lessons in Leadership
One of the biggest leadership lessons Tanya shared was the importance of making decisions—even when they’re difficult. She reflected on moments when hesitation led to missed opportunities and emphasized that “no decision is still a decision.” Instead of freezing in uncertainty, she encourages leaders to take action, assess results, and adjust accordingly.
Additionally, Tanya discussed the value of execution over simply having a great strategy. While reading and learning from business books has been beneficial, she stressed that real change happens when teams align around clear objectives and put ideas into action. For her, building a strong, process-driven company culture has been key to Criterion Tool’s continued success.
Navigating Family Business & Industry Challenges
Tanya acknowledged that working with family presents unique challenges. Her father, having worked for his own father before taking over the business, understood the dynamics of family-run operations. Early on, he established clear boundaries, allowing Tanya to contribute but not take full control until the time was right. She credited this structured transition for making the leadership handoff smoother than many family business successions.
Beyond the internal family dynamic, Tanya also spoke about the challenges of being a woman in manufacturing, an industry traditionally dominated by men. Her leadership has not only helped break barriers but has also inspired a new generation of talent—one of the reasons she focuses on building a thriving, supportive workplace.
Tanya’s Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Tanya’s goal is to continue growing Criterion Tool into a company that thrives beyond her tenure. While she’s unsure if the next generation of her family will take over, she is committed to developing a business with strong systems and a team-driven culture that can sustain itself for years to come.
Her leadership philosophy is simple but powerful: build a great workplace, celebrate wins, and focus on what truly makes you happy.
Final Takeaways for Future CEOs
Before wrapping up, Tanya shared her key advice for anyone looking to build a successful and fulfilling career:
- Make decisions quickly—hesitation only leads to lost time and missed opportunities.
- Surround yourself with the right people—having a strong team and mentors can make all the difference.
- Celebrate wins and embrace the messy middle—progress isn’t always linear, but enjoying the journey is essential.
Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and strong leadership in growing a successful business.
Listen to the Full Episode
To hear Tanya’s full journey, leadership insights, and more about the no-failure industries, listen to the full episode of The Journey to CEO Success!