Director of Product Management
As CM Labs’ Director of Product Management and the lead for the port product line, David Mailhot sees his role as guiding both product direction and team performance to deliver solutions that create real impact.
“I see my role as helping the team shine. When we combine clear vision, strong process, and the drive to serve the training market, we create products that truly make an impact.”
I studied electrical engineering and completed a master’s in robotics, with a focus on industrial robot precision. I then spent a little more than 10 years working on robots used for high-accuracy tasks such as airfoil profiling and machining critical aircraft engine parts.
My background gives me a deep understanding of process automation and systems that combine software and hardware, which I’ve been able to leverage at CM Labs to drive innovation and lead our team in creating meaningful impact.
My role is multifaceted. On the product side, I guide the vision for our port-focused offerings by focusing on understanding the market, meeting clients, and defining which features matter most. At the leadership level, I ensure we have clear processes and communication so the team can deliver outstanding products and excel in their roles.
Ultimately, I’m accountable for the products we deliver, but I see myself first as a leader whose job is to help every person on the team shine.
It prepared me to balance both product and team leadership.
In product management, I dive into the market, anticipate client needs, and build the roadmap. As a director, I ensure clear frameworks, smooth processes, and strong communication so the team can perform at their best. My technical background and experience in project management also help me track performance and support professional growth across the team.
Since joining CM Labs, I’ve focused on product releases on the port side. I improved product documentation so clients can easily track new features and updates. I also built a structured product management process, moving from ad hoc approaches to a clear framework that boosts efficiency and bridges engineering and marketing to deliver better outcomes for clients.
What drew me to CM Labs is the combination of cutting-edge technology and innovation with a clear purpose: serving the training market.
I’ve always been passionate about teaching and helping people learn, and I find that work incredibly rewarding. We help people reach their full potential, work safely, and even advance their careers.
It’s inspiring to lead in a place where cutting-edge technology drives real impact on people’s lives and careers.
It’s friendly and energetic, with a strong appetite for growth.
There is a positivity across the team that sets the tone, while a shared drive for technological innovation and ambitious goals keeps everyone motivated.
This mix of energy, high standards, and ambition creates an environment where the team is fully engaged and striving to achieve more, making the culture both unique and inspiring.
The team collaboration and solution-oriented mindset at CM Labs make it a really enjoyable experience.
When working with the Product Growth Managers, we dive into challenges together, figure out which features will deliver the right outcomes, and turn obstacles into opportunities.
That kind of collaborative problem-solving makes the work both productive and enjoyable.
What drives me is knowing that our products help operators develop themselves and make the industry safer.
I love seeing people reach their full potential through training and guidance, and knowing that my work contributes to their growth and to society gives me a real sense of purpose. Helping others become the best version of themselves is what keeps me motivated every day.
One piece of advice that really stuck with me is this: If something feels uncomfortable, don’t avoid it, deal with it as soon as possible.
A lot of times, the challenge isn’t as bad as you imagine. Tackling discomforts head-on allows you to move on and focus on what really matters.
Another important lesson, especially for engineers, is to step back and ask: Is this really important? Asking this question helps you stay focused on the big picture instead of getting lost in the details and ensures your efforts have the greatest impact.
I’m excited about contributing to our growth as we expand into new markets and geographies. As the company scales, I look forward to helping build and guide a stronger product management team, while continuing to shape solutions that drive meaningful development for the training market.