Meet the 2025 40 Under 40
Honoring the future of convenience services Each year, Automatic Merchandiser recognizes 40 exceptional professionals under the age of 40 who are making an impact in the convenience services industry. The 2025 class of 40 Under 40 reflects the breadth and energy of a rapidly evolving industry.
STEPHANIE BEERMAN
costs. Jared has also led efforts to standardize internal systems, documentation and service manuals, improving training and installation consistency.
Stephanie Beerman is the western regional sales manager for Barcel USA and has spent the past 14 years in the industry building a reputation as a resultsdriven leader with a passion for driving growth. With experience in CPG and unattended retail, Stephanie combines sharp, strategic insight with a collaborative spirit. Navigating a field rich with experienced professionals, she approaches this recognition with humility and gratitude for the mentors who have helped shape her journey. Known for her relentless drive and forward-thinking approach, Stephanie is committed to pushing boundaries, challenging norms and creating a meaningful and measurable impact. This honor not only reflects her dedication and accomplishments but also strengthens her resolve to continue growing, innovating and leading with purpose in an industry she loves. Stephanie Beerman
JARED BLACK
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Automatic Merchandiser • June/July 2025
B. McKNIGHT CARR IV Jared Black
Jared Black is the lead engineer at Everest Ice and Water Systems, where he oversees all aspects of product design and manufacturing innovation. Jared is the architect behind Everest’s most advanced vending models, including the Avalanche and Ascent machines, each designed for improved efficiency, durability and customer usability. His work introduced patented features such as automatic bagging and Clean Vault UV technology, which helped Everest machines last longer, use fewer materials and reduce operating
McKnight Carr is president of MCM Vending in Muscle Shoals, Ala. Growing up, his father worked in the manufactured housing industry. He understood the value of vending, but most importantly, great service. At 16, McKnight’s father purchased 15 vending machines from an online ad as a hands-on way to teach his son about sales, customer service and money management. After a few years working under his father’s guidance, McKnight was able to save $10,000 and,
Mac Bolak
MAC BOLAK Mac Bolak has been starting companies in the artificial intelligence space since he was a teenager, including a venture capital-backed company that used AI to edit basketball footage autonomously for basketball coaches. In 2019, he founded Panoptyc, a micro market theft detection and security company. In 2025, its Sentry AI-powered walkout detection solution earned top honors in the Readers’ Choice Products of the Year Awards in the security category. Panoptyc works with industry leaders and is in more than 6,000 micro markets across the United States, Canada and Europe. Panoptyc uses AI software and smart cameras to decrease theft in micro markets and save operators time reviewing footage. Bolak knows the industry inside and out and is continuously looking to improve Panoptyc’s services while also exploring new opportunities within the industry.