Our Story

In 1995, two visionary engineers, Don Webster and Doug Miller, found themselves at a crossroads. Working for an industrial valve manufacturing company, they had witnessed firsthand the consequences of corporate decisions driven by short-term gains and shareholder interests. These choices led to plant closures, layoffs, and uncertainty. Amidst this challenging environment, Don approached Doug with a bold idea: to create something of their own, something built on integrity and passion—a machine shop where they could chart their own course.

 

With the unwavering support of their wives, Don and Doug embarked on this daring adventure, founding McMinnville Workholding Co. It was a leap into the unknown, but it also meant they were finally in control of their own destiny.

 

For Don, entrepreneurship was not a new concept. He had previously started a small machine shop, working nights after long days at the valve plant. This endeavor was short-lived, as Don was called to active duty during Desert Storm in 1991. But the seed of entrepreneurship had been planted, and it would soon grow into something much larger.

 

The first physical location for McMinnville Workholding was a modest 2,000 sq. ft. basement. With borrowed money and basic equipment, Don and Doug continued to work their day jobs, only to spend their nights in the basement shop. Since their day jobs were so different from the work at night, it didn't feel like working two jobs. In fact, cranking handles was a good way to unwind from the daytime stress. Far from feeling like a burden, this work became their sanctuary—a place where they could unwind and pour their energy into something they truly believed in.

 

As their workload grew, so did their need for help. The first employee was hired, followed by several more. It was a pivotal moment when Don and Doug decided to take the plunge and quit their day jobs, dedicating themselves fully to their fledgling business. By the end of that first year, they paid themselves just $4,000 each—a far cry from their previous salaries, but the business had survived.

 

In 1998, McMinnville Workholding reached another milestone. To keep up with growing demand, more machines and employees were needed. Don and Doug borrowed money again, purchased land, and built the first 8,000 sq. ft. of what would become their current facility. Every employee pitched in, whether it was working on customer projects or helping build offices, pull wire, and plumb new bathrooms.

 

Driven by customer demand, McMinnville Workholding expanded again, adding 14,000 sq. ft. to their original building. Throughout these years, their philosophy remained steadfast: to be there for their customers, ready to tackle any challenge that came their way. This unwavering commitment to customer success has not only propelled McMinnville Workholding to great heights but has also contributed to the success of their customers.

 

From humble beginnings in a basement to a thriving company, McMinnville Workholding stands as a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and the belief that success is best achieved when shared with others.