HISTORY

Founded in 1982 as a High-Quality, Precision Enterprise

Walworth, Wisconsin: Starting from very humble beginnings in a 5,000 square foot facility back in 1982, our founder Ralph “Buck” Cates stepped out on his own with select group of machinists and support staff to launch a new business. Together with this hand picked group, he built up the customer base, added on to the building and, by 1988, had over 50 employees, 60 Swiss type screw machines and 17,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space. Ready for a slower pace, Ralph sold the business to Phil Reader in late 1988, but remained with the company to provide a smooth transition and purchase raw materials. Phil was joined by his son Michael in late 1995, and together they worked to build it even better than before. 
 
By 1999 it was clear the facility was at capacity and a new plant was needed. After much research, plant tours and design assistance, ground was broken that summer on what would be a state-of-the-art, 45,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. With this new space more equipment was added, both conventional Swiss type cam machines, and in 2001 our first CNC Swiss type lathe. 
 
Over the following years the business climate and customer needs made it clear, adapt or die.  The business model needed constant review and modification. Reinvestment in capital equipment, quality systems and personnel training were essential as we adapted to the new world economy. Multiple Secondary operations were no longer cost effective and the focus had to shift to leaner manufacturing priciples. Many of the traditional Tornos machines were rebuilt and retrofitted with specialty attachments and magazine barfeeders to enhance capability and productivity. Through this we were able to improve quality, delivery and cost structure. For the more complex parts where multiple secondary operations were slowing processes down and adding to overhead, we invested in the latest technology. CNC Swiss machines were added and the value became clear, few operations, better quality and quicker turn around for the customers.
 
Entering 2010, we have 18 CNC Swiss machine for complex parts, 2 – 2” capacity Miyano twin spindle, twin turret lathes for larger parts, and 60+ Tornos machines for the close tolerance connector pins, screws, shafts and such. Armed with a wonderful facility, a well balanced mix of equipment and a great staff, we are prepared to earn your confidence and business now and into the future.