After 26 years, James “Jim” Heppelmann is retiring from PTC this month, marking the conclusion of his notable tenure with the company, which includes the past 13 years as CEO.
Under Heppelmann’s stewardship, PTC underwent a transformation that saw it go from a CAD and PLM company with a $2 billion market cap in the 2010s to a worldwide leader in CAD, PLM, ALM, SLM, IIoT and augmented reality (AR) solutions, with a current market cap that exceeds $20 billion.
Heppelmann’s initiatives led to the expansion of the company’s technology portfolio, including the acquisitions of Windchill in 1998, Servigistics in 2012, ThingWorx in 2013 and Vuforia in 2015.
Thought Leadership
Heppelmann co-authored articles with Harvard Business School Professor Michael E. Porter, which set the stage for the transformative potential of IoT and AR technologies. PTC’s acquisition of advanced generative design software Frustrum in 2018 showed his foresight in embracing emerging technologies. And his leadership has earned him numerous accolades, solidifying his legacy as a visionary leader.
To prepare for retirement, Heppelmann has ensured a seamless transition, emphasizing knowledge-sharing and mentorship with CEO-elect Neil Barua. The company acknowledges the support of its stakeholders and has expressed gratitude for their contributions to PTC’s success.
Heppelmann’s initiatives have not only shaped a company but no doubt have left an indelible mark on the industry. Machine Design wishes him the best.
A blog post on PTC’s website further expands upon Heppelmann’s legacy with the company.