About us
This is the Toolcraft story.
The year was 1990.
Gas was $1.16 a gallon and the federal debt was at a staggering 3 trillion dollars. My elders were advising me to save my money and start a kitchen garden - I didn’t listen.
Instead, I drained my savings account and started Toolcraft. No, there was no market research telling me that Monroe, Washington was in need of a new machine shop. I just needed a new challenge.
My first few years were spent making custom precision tools, jigs, and fixtures for big shops. My equipment list at the time was pretty slight: a Bridgeport mill, one manual lathe, a drill press, and a band saw. A lot of things have changed with Toolcraft Inc. since 1990:
- Our expansion into the production CNC precision machining market.
- A larger, 12,000 square foot manufacturing facility filled with fully-automated machine tools.
Most importantly, our team has expanded beyond just myself, Karl Niemela, into a large team of dedicated employees who love what they do, including two generations of family working together under one roof.
Our Values
While some things change, others stay the same. Our values have remained identical since day one.
Quality
Partners look to us to deliver quality parts, and we’re committed to doing projects right the first time.
Customer Service
Toolcraft is dedicated to communicating with partners early on in the process and consistently throughout.
Integrity
When we commit to a project, we’re producing it. If we say something will be delivered on time, our partners can depend on that.
Frequently asked questions
These are the most common questions people ask us. Contact us if you do not see your question here or need more information.
How can I get a quote for my project?
To receive a quote, simply reach out to us with your project specifications, including part drawings and material requirements. Our team will review your needs and provide a competitive quote promptly.
What is the lead time for production?
Lead times vary based on the complexity of the parts and the volume required. However, we’ll never promise something we cannot deliver on. Please contact us for a more accurate estimate based on your project.
Can you handle both small and large production runs?
Yes, we are equipped to handle both small and large production runs efficiently. Our flexible manufacturing processes allow us to adapt to your specific needs.
Do you have any certifications or industry standards?
Yes, we are certified to ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D and comply with various industry regulations to ensure quality and safety. We are also an ITAR registered facility. (CMMC?)
How do you ensure confidentiality for proprietary designs?
We take confidentiality seriously and can sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect your intellectual property.
What technologies do you use in your machining processes?
We utilize advanced CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and automation technologies to enhance precision and efficiency. (THIS WOULD BE A GOOD PLACE TO HAVE A COMPREHENSIVE LIST)
Do you provide post-machining services, such as assembly or finishing?
Yes, we offer additional services, including assembly, surface finishing, and coating, to provide a complete solution.
Do you offer design assistance?
Yes, our engineering team can assist with Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and provide recommendations to enhance manufacturability. Contact us at the beginning of your project so you can take advantage of our specialized knowledge. You can use our recommendations to refine your parts for production. Getting our engineering team involved early generally always results in a savings whether it is time or materials. We even let you know if we don’t think we’re a good fit for producing your part and can advise the best place to produce it.
How do you ensure quality in your machining processes?
We have a comprehensive quality assurance program that includes in-process inspections, final inspections, and adherence to industry standards like ISO 9001. Our team uses advanced metrology equipment to ensure that all parts meet the required specifications. See our QA page for specifics and reach out to us for additional answers.
What types of machining services do you offer?
We provide a range of services, including 3,4,5-axis CNC milling, conventional turning, and Swiss turning. We’ll help you through both the protype and production phases of your project.
What types of materials can you work with for Swiss machining and turning?
We work with a variety of materials, including metals like stainless steel, all kinds of different super alloys, titanium, aluminum, brass, and various plastics. If you have a specific material in mind, feel free to reach out!
Where the precision happens
Our workforce is a community - and we want you to be part of that. We pride ourselves on a clean, orderly facility, kept in check by the 5S system.
Monroe, WA
We are happy to receive customers and guests at our facility. Contact us if you would like to schedule a meeting.
We pride ourselves on employing an enthusiastic, reliable staff who are committed to doing jobs right and engaging with clients to provide knowledge and support.
Our focus is always on building long-lasting partnerships that will go the distance.