Meet Our Leadership Team
The leadership team at Fostermation brings together decades of combined experience in precision manufacturing, CNC Swiss machining, and custom component production. Based in Meadville, Pennsylvania, our team is committed to delivering high-quality, tight-tolerance solutions for customers across a wide range of industries. From operations and production management to customer service and strategic planning, each leader plays a critical role in maintaining our reputation for reliability, efficiency, and engineering excellence. At Fostermation, we take pride in combining hands-on manufacturing expertise with forward-thinking leadership to support continuous improvement and long-term customer success.
John Ritchey II – President & Owner
Precision Manufacturing Leader | CNC Swiss Machining | Cold Forming & Engineering Solutions
John Ritchey II is the President and Owner of Fostermation, bringing extensive experience in precision wire component manufacturing, CNC Swiss machining, and cold forming. With a background in tool and die technology, he has built a career focused on producing tight-tolerance, high-quality components for demanding industries.
As the leader of Fostermation, John oversees operations, strategic direction, and customer-focused manufacturing solutions. His approach emphasizes quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement, ensuring every project meets strict industry standards while delivering reliable results for customers.
John is actively involved in the manufacturing industry through the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA), where he participates in regional leadership and committee initiatives supporting workforce development and industry advancement.
Beyond his professional role, John is engaged in community initiatives including workforce development programs, local nonprofit support, and regional manufacturing partnerships. His commitment to both industry and community reflects Fostermation’s long-standing values of craftsmanship and local investment.
Outside of work, John enjoys traveling, hiking, mountain climbing, running, CrossFit, concerts, and spending time outdoors. He also appreciates craft beer, bourbon, and has a lifelong appreciation for Batman. John is the proud father of two daughters, Brinley and Maylin.
Ashley Ritchey – Vice President & Office Manager
Manufacturing Operations | Business Administration | Customer Experience & HR Leadership
Ashley Ritchey serves as Vice President and Office Manager at Fostermation, where she plays a key leadership role in overseeing daily business operations, customer service, human resources, financial coordination, and overall office management. Her work ensures the company operates efficiently and maintains a strong focus on both internal organization and customer satisfaction.
With a degree in Business Administration from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Ashley brings a well-rounded understanding of business operations that supports Fostermation’s continued growth within the precision manufacturing industry. Her leadership helps align administrative processes with production goals, ensuring smooth communication and operational consistency across the organization.
Ashley is known for her organized, detail-oriented approach and her ability to support both employees and customers with professionalism and care.
Outside of work, Ashley enjoys spending time with family and friends. She can often be found baking, reading, hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, or planning her next road trip. She is also a dedicated supporter at her daughters’ sporting events.
Susan F. Ritchey – CEO & Past President
Susan brought her experience, education, and passion for local organizations to her roles at Fostermation. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Computer Science at Goucher College in Towson, Maryland and has served on the Board of Directors for Junior Achievement of Western Crawford County, Meadville Medical Center Foundation, and Meadville Area Industrial Commission. Susan was the advisor of the Junior Achievement After School Program, she was also on the Meadville/Western Crawford County Finance Committee, the board for the Kiwanis Club of Meadville, and the NTMA Marketing Committee.
In her free time, Susan enjoys traveling, exploring national parks, and fitness activities. She also loves collecting antiques.
John P. Ritchey – Past Vice President & Plant Manager
John’s passion and discipline, carried over from his 7 years of service in the military, influenced the hard work he has devoted to Fostermation. In his spare time, John enjoys traveling and antiquing. He is an avid Petroliana collector and also loves restoring classic cars.
Anthony Canchola – Operations Manager
Manufacturing Operations Leader | ISO 9001 Compliance | Precision Manufacturing Excellence
Anthony Canhola has been a key member of the Fostermation team since 2017, contributing extensive expertise in manufacturing operations, quality systems, and continuous improvement within the precision machining industry.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, with a minor in Accounting, and has further strengthened his professional foundation through certifications in Business Management, Business Ethics, and ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor Compliance. His background supports Fostermation’s commitment to quality control, efficient production workflows, and industry-leading manufacturing standards.
Anthony is an active member of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA), demonstrating his ongoing dedication to advancing best practices in the CNC machining and precision manufacturing industry.
In his role as Operations Manager, Anthony focuses on production efficiency, process optimization, and maintaining strict quality assurance standards to ensure customer satisfaction across all projects.
Outside of work, Anthony is deeply involved in his community, coaching youth football, wrestling, and baseball programs. He enjoys an active lifestyle that includes fitness, camping, and outdoor recreation. Above all, he values time with his wife Lindsey and their two sons, Landon and Connor.
John Butler – Plant Manager and Machine Operator
Manufacturing Operations Leader | Precision Machining | Production Management
John Butler serves as Plant Manager and Machine Operator at Fostermation, bringing extensive experience in manufacturing operations, production oversight, and hands-on machining. Since joining the leadership team in 2015, he has been a driving force behind efficient plant operations, workflow optimization, and consistent product quality.
With a strong background in both management and machining, John bridges the gap between the shop floor and leadership team. His hands-on approach ensures that production standards are maintained while continuously improving efficiency, safety, and overall output in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
John takes pride in supporting a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement, helping Fostermation deliver reliable precision manufacturing solutions to its customers.
A graduate of Maplewood High School, John values strong local connections and long-standing relationships within the industry and community.
Outside of work, John enjoys hunting, fishing, camping, and riding UTVs. Most importantly, he values time with his wife Kati and their two sons.
Dale Forkl Jr. – Secondary Set-Up/Operator and Team Leader
Dale has been with Fostermation for six years and brings 35 years of management experience to the team. He graduated from Maplewood in 1985 and now spends most of his time with this daughter “Little Bear,” who is 13 years old. When not working, Dale can be found cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins. He also loves hunting, fishing, hiking, and cycling.
Kevin Hammond – Shipping/Receiving & Cleaning Supervisor
Kevin has been with Fostermation for 13 years. Prior to joining the team, he attended Indiana High School in Indiana, PA. When he isn’t working, Kevin spends time with his two wonderful daughters, Miranda and Raeleigh. He also loves football, auto racing, and being outdoors.
