In this video, we take a tour of Maple Lane Machine & Tool, a family-owned machine shop founded by Brad Jacob in rural Pennsylvania. Starting in his basement and later expanding into a large detached garage, Brad shares his incredible journey—from high school metal shop classes to building a thriving business. https://maplelanemachinetool.com/
Learn about Brad's story, the equipment he uses, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and why he encourages others to leave corporate America to start their own small businesses. Whether you’re a machining enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about the world of precision manufacturing, this video is packed with insights and inspiration.
Equipment:
HAAS Mini Mill
Tormach CNC Lathe
Hardinge HLV-H Lathe
Hardinge DSM-59 Turret Lathe
Precision Mathews 16" Lathe
6x12 Surface Grinder
Bridgeport Milling Machine
South Bend 9" Lathe
South Bend Drill Press
Flexarm Tapping Arm
Deckel SO Toolbit Grinder
MIG, TIG & Stick Welding
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0:00 - Intro
2:06 - How he got started
3:04 - Entrepreneurship vs Corporate
4:46 - Challenges
5:56 - Campro Plug
6:30 - Challenges Cont'd
6:50 - Advice to start a shop
7:58 - Learning CNC - NYC CNC
9:24 - The Grind
11:43 - Family, Health
13:03 - 1946 Southbend Lathe
13:25 - Knee Mill - Bridgeport
15:12 - Precision Matthews Engine Lathe
18:08 - Hardinge Toolroom Lathe
19:45 - Hardinge Manual Turret Lathe
20:48 - Challenging part - Peak plastic
23:16 - Lathe Accessories
24:12 - Tormach 15L Slant Pro
25:58 - Haas Mini Mill
26:47 - Tooling
30:10 - Welding, Rotary Phase Converter, and Saw
34:47 - Favorite tools, optical comparator
40:58 - Flex arm, Laser Marker, Drill press
43:30 - Final Thoughts