When Lee Culp, CDT—one of the most respected technicians in the world—wants to recognize you for excellence, it would be easy to let it go to your head. But Jack Marrano, CDT, is as modest as he is accomplished.
For instance, ask Marrano about his success—at age 34 he runs the multi-million-dollar Fixed Prosthodontics/Implants division of Microdental, one of the largest laboratories in the country—and he's quick to credit his six team leaders. "I couldn't do it without their wonderful hard work," says Marrano, a former Marine who joined the company two years ago with 12 years' experience, including three as a lab owner.
The division—which is almost completely digital—relies on 16 mills and three printing machines. Much of that equipment has been purchased during Marrano's tenure and part of his job is to create and implement new digital workflows for all of the department's products. In fact, Culp, Microdental's CTO, credits him with being "instrumental in building one of the most advanced digital manufacturing platforms in the dental lab profession."
"There's no manual on how to build the digital lab, it's a process—a mindset that goes far beyond purchasing digital equipment," says Marrano. "Once you decide to go digital, you can't waiver from that commitment."
Marrano and his team also train the staff on the new automated processes and he excels at getting technicians on board with the new technology. "When we bring in digital, it's key to involve the staff so they know they're valued," he says. "When we introduce a piece of equipment, I'll ask them 'How's the fit?' or 'Do you like these settings?' They're part of the process and we need them and their expertise when fabricating restorations in a new way." In addition to his manager responsibilities, Marrano—an accomplished technician who has produced work for some of the world's most respected dentists—can often be found on the bench. "I like working alongside the technicians," he says. "It's the best way to earn their trust and respect."
Since Marrano lives two-and-half hours away, he stays near the lab Monday through Friday—often arriving at work at 5am--and commutes home on the weekends. Somehow, he also finds time to lecture, write articles, serve as a consultant to dental manufacturers and, in September, he earned his Implant Mastership Credential from The International College of Oral Implantologists.
