What does it take to build a family business that lasts for generations, and continues to evolve along the way? Founded in a St. Louis basement in 1947, Essex Industries has grown from a small family operation into a coast-to-coast aerospace and defense manufacturer with more than 400 employees.

Today, third-generation CEO Evan Waldman is helping write the company’s next chapter. Evan will share the Essex story and the lessons learned from nearly 80 years of growth, including navigating generational leadership transitions, preserving a strong culture, investing for the long term, adapting to changing markets and technologies, and balancing the traditions that built a successful company with the need to continually evolve.

This will be a firsthand look at what it takes to build a manufacturing business not just for today, but for generations to come. You won’t want to miss this event!

If you are unable to make it in-person, we will be streaming via LinkedIn Live. Please check back here for the link to the live stream the day of the event!

Speaker: Evan Waldman

Evan Waldman serves as Chief Executive Officer of Essex Industries, a product design and manufacturing company of precision aerospace & defense products and components.

Founded in 1947, Essex has 400+ employees with operations in Missouri, Connecticut and California. Essex has a diverse product portfolio serving nearly all major fixed-wing and rotorcraft platforms in the defense, commercial and general aviation markets.

Evan leads with a growth mindset and is passionate about customer intimacy and constantly enhancing Essex as a great place to work.

Evan participates in panel discussions and speaking engagements on the topics of leadership, private business and Aerospace & Defense. He is also proud of Essex’s charitable program that supports employees in times of need through a partner 501(c)3.

Evan and his wife live in a suburb of St. Louis, MO with their four children. He enjoys playing the piano, cycling, spending time outdoors and traveling.

MML Event Details
Friday, November 13th, 2026
7:15 – 8:00 am – Networking
8:00 – 8:50 am – Presentation
8:50 – 9:00 am – Question & Answer

Event Location
The Lodge Des Peres
1050 Des Peres Rd.
St Louis, MO 63131

Event Registration