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Success Stories

“We are in the Business of Accuracy!”

Ella Waterhouse
Small Business
A woman bends over samples in a laboratory environment.

From the planes in the sky to the work done on your vehicles, various tools are required for these services. Many of these tools require calibration, a process where a tool is tested and adjusted to ensure accurate measurements. In 2012, PinnaCal opened their doors as the only accredited commercial calibration lab in the state. PinnaCal Owner and President, Jessie Ellis stated it was “-filling a void in Montana.”   

Prior to PinnaCal, customers had to ship out these tools to be calibrated or pay to bring in calibration companies, both expensive and time consuming, making calibration extremely inconvenient. Mike Ellis, PinnaCal Vice President, worked as a mechanic in the aviation industry and understood the challenges of not having these services in the area. That has changed since the creation of PinnaCal. “Our business offers one of the fastest turnaround times in the industry and our pricing is competitive,” says Jessie. PinnaCal continues to expand their services to best serve the customers' needs.

However, the equipment to provide these services is expensive with high overhead costs. “Montana’s aviation and manufacturing industries both need calibrated instrumentation and tooling to do their work,” states Jessie. In 2019, PinnaCal secured a loan through Ravalli County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA) to purchase electrical calibration equipment and hire their first employee, expanding their capabilities. Jessie notes, “We have been able to provide the services to help ensure their tooling meets their quality and regulatory requirements.”

USDA Rural Development partners with organizations like RCEDA through the Intermediary Relending Program to help develop and expand businesses like PinnaCal. They are now a full service lab with torque, pressure, electrical, force and dimensional capabilities. Their services extend across the country to include aviation, agriculture, manufacturing, government, oil and gas, as well as many other sectors.

PinnaCal maintains high standards to keep equipment and tools calibrated. “We are in the business of accuracy,” states Jessie, “It has to be perfect.” PinnaCal remains the only accredited lab in Montana, enhancing accuracy across the United States.

Obligation Amount:
$110,000
Year(s) of Obligation:
Congressional District:
  • Montana: District 1