PITTSBURGH, PA, May 27, 2025 – Kennametal Inc. has invested in Toolpath Labs, a company developing AI-based CAM software. The partnership aligns with Kennametal’s strategy to expand its digital offerings and support manufacturing customers globally.
“This partnership represents another bold step in our digital transformation journey,” said Dr. Carlonda Reilly, VP & chief technology officer of Kennametal Inc. “Toolpath’s platform amplifies our industry-leading application engineering expertise through its intuitive, intelligent software. It’s a smart, scalable solution that brings the power of AI right to the shop floor in a practical and impactful way.”
Toolpath’s software applies AI to the CAM process, enabling automated tool selection and toolpath optimization. The technology boosts efficiency and reduces reliance on specialized skills by simplifying the use of advanced toolpath planning and engineering methods. The partnership will support joint development of new solutions that combine Toolpath’s AI-driven platform with Kennametal’s expertise in tooling and application engineering.
“Toolpath represents a compelling opportunity for us to extend what we do best – application expertise and advanced tooling – to a broader audience of customers,” said Dave Bersaglini, president of metal cutting. “Together, we’re building a bridge between human expertise and digital intelligence to deliver measurable performance improvements on the shop floor.”
“Kennametal, a company with deep roots in American manufacturing, is an ideal partner for us not only because of its tooling expertise, but because of our deeply personal shared vision of empowering machinists and transforming the manufacturing world with practical AI,” said Al Whatmough, CEO of Toolpath. “This is more than business for both of us. It’s personal. Together, we’re combining advanced software with real-world application and machining knowledge, creating scalable solutions that address workforce challenges, and drive meaningful performance gains that will redefine our industry.”
The two companies will collaborate on go-to-market strategies, product development and demand generation initiatives as they work together to scale Toolpath’s platform globally.
Source: Kennametal
About Kennametal
Founded in 1938, Kennametal Inc. is a global leader in manufacturing high-performance cutting tools, tooling systems, and wear-resistant solutions. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company serves diverse industries, including aerospace, earthworks, energy, general engineering, and transportation. With approximately 8,700 employees operating in more than 60 countries, Kennametal generated $2.1 billion in revenue during fiscal year 2023. The company’s products are integral to various applications, such as machining components for aerospace, automotive parts, mining equipment, and oil and gas drilling tools. Kennametal’s commitment to materials science and innovation has established it as a trusted partner in enhancing productivity and precision across multiple sectors.
About Toolpath Labs
Toolpath Labs, Inc., founded in 2021 and based in Bedford Heights, OH, develops AI-driven software for automating CNC machining workflows. Its platform focuses on front-end manufacturing tasks such as design-for-manufacturability analysis, cost estimation, and CAM automation. By processing 3D CAD models, the software generates optimized toolpaths for 3-axis milling operations, helping reduce manual programming and improve shop efficiency. Toolpath serves industries including aerospace, automotive, and general industrial manufacturing. In September 2024, Toolpath raised $10 million in a seed funding round led by Leaders Fund, with participation from Tech Square Ventures and BLH Venture Partners, bringing its total funding to $16.6 million. Its software supports small to mid-sized manufacturers automate programming and boost machine use without relying on in-house CAM experts.