This year, Methods Machine Tools Inc., a North American supplier of precision machine tools, automation and additive manufacturing solutions, is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Founded in November of 1958, with three employees and a few refurbished machines, Methods has grown into one of the largest high-precision machine tool suppliers in North America. Today, the company has roughly 350 employees, eight sales and technology centers and more than 35,000 machines installed throughout North America, ranging from EDM machines to sophisticated 5-Axis CNC Machining Centers to state-of-the-art robotics, automation and 3-D printing solutions.
The company’s founder Clement McIver Sr. established principles that the company says have continued to set Methods apart from conventional importers or distributors: “Anyone can sell a machine. But not everyone provides the extra effort that makes a difference on a company’s bottom line”‒ Clem McIver Sr., 1917 – 1995.
“Staying true to our founder’s vision, we have built an excellent reputation in the machine tool industry by closely partnering with machine builders and customers, as well as providing strong application expertise,” said Scott McIver, Methods chairman and third generation owner. “We offer a total service solution from design and applications to engineering, installation, training and unmatched support, to help manufacturers be more profitable, productive and competitive.”
Methods’ product line strategy offers only the most advanced, optimal technology for each machining discipline or class. Machine tool partners include Nakamura-Tome, Yasda, FANUC, KIWA-Japan and most recently, Niigata Machine. EDM partners include FANUC Wire EDM’s and new partner Ocean Technologies Co., Ltd. In addition, Methods 3D Inc. provides the industry’s most advanced 3-D printing solutions through 3D Systems and MarkForged. For measurement and inspection solutions, Methods offers Digital Optical Comparators from VISIONx INC.
Demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to quality and reliability, many of Methods’ machine manufacturer partnerships have been long term, such as being the exclusive U.S. importer of premier Nakamura-Tome Multitasking Turning Centers for 35 years, and 25 years with FANUC as importer of the world’s most popular tapping/ drilling FANUC RoboDrill Machining Centers and FANUC Wire EDM Machines for all of North America. The close, collaborative relationships with Nakamura-Tome and FANUC have provided Methods’ customers leading machine technology solutions for decades. In addition,
Methods’ close attention to applications and dedicated service ensures productive, profitable, customer centric solutions and support.
“We are excited to celebrate our 60th anniversary milestone,” said Jerry Rex, president and CEO of Methods. “Our dedicated, experienced team, together with our powerful partnerships, have provided us a strong foundation for serving our customers. We are proud of our heritage and are looking forward to further expand our leading technology solutions in machine tools and automation, including the most proficient ways to apply and support them.”
Strategically located across the U.S., Methods Sales and Technology Centers complement an extensive, national network of distributors and dealers, offering the latest technology and automation solutions, machines, training, spare parts and engineering support demanded by manufacturers. In addition, the company has state-of-the-art Automation Centers in three locations as well as 3-D printing labs throughout the U.S.
To commemorate the milestone, Methods will be hosting open houses, holding technology events and introducing new product lines throughout the year.
