Two organizations, Westland Manufacturing and JMS Precision, merged their organizations in August 2015 to operate under one company doing business as Dakotaland Manufacturing. 

Both companies are in Eastern South Dakota. Westland, based in Sioux Falls, grew its metal fabrications capabilities to include sheet and tube lasers, brake press, punch, welding, and powder coat finishes.  JMS Precision, based in Watertown, has a primary focus on precision metal machining. Their capabilities include CNC turning centers, milling machines and robotic welders. Just prior to the merge, JMS Precision built a facility to manage fabrication work in addition to its precision metal machining. This adds capabilities of  laser, press brake and laser etching to the Watertown facility.

By bringing these two expert companies together, they have established themselves as a leader in the region for both metal fabrication and machining.

This rural business received a $8,800 grant through USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The federal funding was leveraged with an applicant contribution of $26,400 for a total project cost of $35,200. The business purchased and installed LED lighting at the facility in Watertown.  With the new lights installed, the business is expected to decrease electricity usage by 69% which will have a significant impact on its utility bill. The company is expected to save $15,321 a year on electricity.

“The team at  Rural Development (USDA) was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful as we worked through the application process for this grant. We are very pleased with the outcome and will seek other opportunities in the future,” Mark Clements, Director of  Manufacturing, Dakotaland Manufacturing.