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About

Who we are

At AV&R, we propel manufacturing into the future by delivering cutting-edge automated abrasive finishing and visual inspection machines.

We empower manufacturers by enhancing their production capabilities and competitiveness through advanced automation and robotics solutions.
WHAT WE COMMIT TO
Our Mission

Making high technology in abrasive finishing and inspection automation accessible by facilitating its integration and use across all industries by humans.

Our Vision

To be the world leader in automated abrasive finishing and surface inspection for manufacturers by pushing back the limits of technology.

Our Values

Humans
Innovation
Client-oriented
Eco-responsible

At AV&R, these are not just values – they're our DNA. We innovate not only in technology but in every aspect of our approach. We are driven by the awareness that our machines are crafted to propel our clients to success. In every endeavor, we strive to do better, be eco-responsible, and pushing boundaries to ensure excellence.

The Management Team

Our leadership team collaborate to safeguard AV&R’s commitment to customer-centric innovation and performance, ensuring with the help of all employees an unparalleled experience for our clients.

Jean-François Dupont

CEO

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Marc-Olivier Abel

Engineering & Product Development Director

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Mathieu Chenard

Visual Inspection Development Director

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Marlène Daugarou

Marketing & Communications Director

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Dominic Despres

Vice President - Operations

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Philippe Masson

Strategic Partnerships Manager

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Michael Muldoon

Business Development Director

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Steffi St-Antoine

Legal Counsel

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30 years

of experience

Trusted by

200 clients

including 15 OEMs

+2,000 machines

installed worldwide

Presence in

20 countries

90% of planes

have a part finished by an AV&R machine

OUR HISTORY

1994
A robotics and machine vision engineering group emerged at Walsh Automation in Montreal, led by Jean-François Dupont and Charles Magnan. The team immediately delved into complex automation projects spanning industries like aluminum, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and more across North America.
2005

In 2005, with support from Averna Technologies, Jean-François and Charles finalized the group buyout. A year later, we rebranded as AV&R: Automation, Vision, and Robotics. AV&R's official creation marked a transformative period, adopting a product-centric approach. Focused on research and development, our strategic shift aimed at becoming leaders in industrial automation. Choosing the U.S. for expansion, our expertise in robotics found a niche in gas turbine blade processes, propelling us to global recognition and marking the beginning of AV&R's international success.

2008

In 2008, the global financial crisis hit hard, halting 85% of our revenue from U.S. customers. We swiftly pivoted, leveraging our aerospace expertise to explore new global markets. Building on our reputation, we secured our first international customer, expanding our technology worldwide. Today, our cutting-edge systems operate in 20 countries across 3 continents.

 

2020

Amid the aerospace manufacturing standstill due to the global pandemic, AV&R strategically diversified into orthopaedic implants and general manufacturing, broadening our mission to serve all industries. Strengthening our expertise in abrasive finishing and visual inspection, AV&R not only adapted to new challenges but emerged stronger, committed to continuous improvement and superior solutions.

Driving Progress Globally

AV&R is at the forefront of innovation, designing automated machines that have left their mark in 20 countries across 4 continents.
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A Strong Culture,
A Special Workplace

At AV&R, our shared values are the compass steering us in every interaction with our clients, partners, and colleagues. Our culture is not just a statement – it’s the our daily stride.

Step into AV&R’s Culture

Our Partners

Proudly made in Québec!

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Copyright © 2024 AV&R, All rights reserved.
Golf enthusiast, Jean-François Dupont is the founder of AV&R. Loving to plan projects and have fun with his colleagues, his motto is “Work hard, play hard”. Jean-François is convinced that what separates the 50% of entrepreneurs who succeed from the 50% who fail is perseverance, the thought that helped him build what AV&R is today! He graduated from ÉTS in Automated Production Engineering, becoming a school ambassador in 2016, and from the MIT Sloan School of Management. Since its inception in 1994, Jean-François has held virtually every role within AV&R until becoming CEO of the company.

After 13 years at AV&R and a short 4-year hiatus, Marc-Olivier Abel has decided to come back “home” and to join AV&R’s team again in 2021 as Engineering and Product Development Director. His wealth of product development experiences, which he brings back with him, gives a fresh perspective to AV&R’s product range. This cycling, mountain and travel enthusiast is known for his strong mobilizing leadership skills. His main objective? Having fun as a team while developing robotic solutions that meet specific client needs.

With a bachelor’s degree in automated production engineering, Mathieu Chenard joined AV&R’s great family in 2011. Director Visual Inspection Development since the end of 2020, this eternal enthusiast, for whom programming has almost no secrets anymore, pushes his team to surpass themselves day after day. Developing the skills of his clan members is a priority for him. What motivates him on a daily basis? Bring solutions to life!
With a master’s degree in public relations and an MBA, Marlène Daugarou joined AV&R’s marketing team in 2015 and progressed within the company to become Director of Marketing and Communications. Marlène demonstrates commitment, curiosity, and team spirit on a daily basis. Her international experience in France and Canada and her desire to constantly learn have been put to good use at AV&R. What does she like about her job? Popularise the concepts of high technology so that they are understood by all, simply and effectively. Always on the lookout for the latest marketing trends and best practices, Marlène ensures that AV&R’s team of marketing professionals support the development of the business at all levels. Communicative above all, she enjoys human contact and inspires a spirit of teamwork within her colleagues.
CPA, CMA, Dominic Després has been AV&R’s “finance expert” since 2008. This passionate baseball fan is pragmatic at heart who has evolved within the company to become the Vice President – Operations. Dominic is a person of action and a team player. Beyond his strategic vision, which has helped finance the AV&R’s international expansion, he is committed to training the next generation and helping his employees to be as autonomous as possible.
Philippe Masson has been a valuable member of our team since 2007. Holding a bachelor’s degree in Automated Production Engineering, Philippe quickly emerged as a key leader at AV&R. Over the years, he has held several pivotal positions within the company, including Robot Programmer, Project Manager, Visual Inspection R&D Manager, and most recently, Strategic Partnership Manager and member of the Executive Committee. Philippe possesses a comprehensive, 360-degree understanding of the company and demonstrates a rare ability to think strategically about all aspects of our operations. His exceptional interpersonal skills and consistent thoughtfulness make him an invaluable collaborator to our international clients and partners.

2007 is the beginning of Michael Muldoon’s adventure at AV&R where he has evolved over the years. He is now Business Development Director. A graduate of the University of Windsor, Michael demonstrates curiosity, creativity and dedication on a daily basis. His strategic spirit, focused on the industry’s evolution, has enabled the company to develop innovative products while remaining focused on market issues, and the current and future needs of customers. His goal? Maximize the potential of all, to conquer the world as a team!

A Lawyer by training and a passionate sportswoman, Steffi St-Antoine’s interests include business law and contract negotiation. She joined AV&R in January 2018 as legal counsel. With a strong work ethic and rigor, Steffi serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors and works directly with the President on all contract negotiations. From confidentiality management to the evaluation of risk factors, Steffi participates in the development of the company’s strategy. Her daily goal: To provide proactive advice, to collaborate with the different internal teams and to encourage her colleagues to move!