History | Jenkins Machine Inc.

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Providing machining needs since 1949

Walter D. Jenkins, Sr. began the legacy on the race track in 1949. Walter was an experienced tool and die maker and also a huge racing enthusiast both on and off the track. Combining the two, he found great success by machining precision parts for the racing industry in Allentown, PA. With the help of his wife, Stephania, Jenkins Machine was founded!

In 1955, Jenkins Machine moved from Walter’s garage to a building in Whitehall, PA and began working with two well-known companies – Western Electric and Bell Labs. In 1962, the first satellite capable of trans-ocean communications, Telstar 1, was launched and contained parts made by Jenkins Machine!

Walter’s son joined the business in 1963 and in 1973, Walter D. Jenkins, Jr. became the second President of Jenkins Machine. Within a few years, the need for more space was apparent and the company moved to their current facility in Bethlehem, PA. Embracing new methods and technologies, Walt led the company through the transition from conventional to CNC machining. His passion for solving challenging problems led to involvement with the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and the Ben Franklin Advanced Technology Center at Lehigh University. This involvement not only helped Jenkins Machine advance forward, but also the manufacturing industry as a whole.

Since 1993, Michael J. Jenkins, Sr. has led Jenkins Machine as the 3rd President. Mike’s passion for helping people, building lasting relationships and improving efficiency has enabled the company to expand in many ways since 1993. With the addition of high speed machining, contour milling and other new capabilities, Jenkins Machine grew from 4 CNC’s to their current facilities list and the space required has doubled. They have focused on building a strong team of high quality, talented people and are always looking for new members that share in their vision and values. The team enjoys working together and contributing to the community through various activities.

By building on tradition and core company values, Jenkins Machine continues to be a valued manufacturing partner and a great place to work!