Relocating his business from a town with a population of over 50,000 to one with just over 450 residents might have seemed like an unexpected decision. Read how Kyle Copelan found opportunity in the unlikely and transformed North Fork Precision into a story of even bigger success.
Seeking Precision in Montana
In 2017, Kyle acquired JTech Precision Machining, a company specializing in the high-precision manufacturing of components, based in Bozeman, Montana. With just one CNC milling machine and his determination, Kyle began his entrepreneurship journey.
From Bozeman to Broadus
As North Fork Precision continued to flourish, Kyle and his wife set their sights on returning to their hometown of Broadus, Montana. They wanted to bring the business closer to home and contribute to their local community.
A Cut Above with the SBA 504 Loan
Kyle contacted the local economic development center in Colstrip, who referred him to Dakota Business Lending and the SBA 504 loan for his relocation project. This loan, in partnership with Dakota Business Lending and First Interstate Bank, reduced the financial burden of moving the business while providing extensive small business resources along the way.
"We couldn't have succeeded without Dakota Business Lending and the SBA 504 loan program..."
-Kyle Copelan
Small Town, Big Impact
On January 3rd, 2022, North Fork Precision began operating out of Broadus, Montana - a town of only 467 people. Creating 8+ quality jobs, Kyle transformed the company while investing in the community.
"Our growth has surprised me. I knew we could grow the business, but it has already exceeded my expectations!”
-Kyle Copelan
Building Futures
Kyle believes part of the solution for building a more engaged and stable workforce is creating jobs that invest in employees and empower them to grow personally and professionally. At North Fork Precision, employees are provided with more than just a job, but a ladder of opportunity that allows them to ascend and advance in their careers.
“People don’t always feel that they have the space to go out of their way and get better. I’ve found that when they have the opportunity, they grow…both themselves and their company.”
-Kyle Copelan
Putting Rural Montana on the Map
Kyle believes in building strong relationships and treating his clients right so he can build customer loyalty. With 95% of North Fork’s work being shipped out of state, the company’s exports have put Broadus on the map in the manufacturing industry.
“You might not expect rural Montana to be home to a world-class manufacturing company, but we wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!”
-Kyle Copelan
Don't Underestimate Growth Mindset
Today, North Fork Precision is thriving in its new location with machinery at its full capacity. Kyle's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, quality service, and the belief in the potential of both a business and a community.
“If you are a growth-minded business, you're going to grow. Don’t underestimate yourself and your business.”
-Kyle Copelan
For more information about North Fork Precision, visit their website.
This article was written by Dakota Business Lending with permission from North Fork Precision and is not to be edited or redistributed without permission.