EPISODE #9: Grit, Growth And Generational Leadership with Tanya DiSalvo, CEO of Criterion Tool

What do no-failure industries, third-generation leadership, and bold decision-making have in common? Today’s guest, Tanya DiSalvo, lives at the intersection of all three.In this episode of The Journey to CEO Success, hosts Melissa Saunders and Patrick Thean sit down with Tanya DiSalvo—CEO of Criterion Tool, a precision machine shop serving mission-critical industries like aerospace, medical devices, and weapons systems. From her unexpected path back to the family business to taking over from her father and navigating tough leadership lessons, Tanya brings candor, wit, and wisdom to the table.You’ll hear:How she “mailed her dad her resume” to get hiredWhat it’s like working for (and eventually buying out) a parentWhy “no decision” is often the worst decisionHow she’s building a joyful workplace where fun is a core valuePacked with real-life insights from a woman leading in a male-dominated industry, this episode is a masterclass in grit, growth, and generational leadership done right.