Our Story | 425 Manufacturing
Founded in June 2015, 425 Manufacturing is a CNC machining and manufacturing company specializing in precision-machined components for demanding industrial applications. Based in Rockford, Illinois, we support manufacturers throughout Northern Illinois, the Chicago suburbs, and customers worldwide who depend on tight tolerances, consistent quality, and reliable delivery.
Leadership & Foundation
425 Manufacturing was founded by Mike Thomason, whose background in manufacturing—and lifelong exposure to the shop floor—laid the foundation for the company’s growth. Having grown up in a machine shop, Mike developed an early understanding of precision, problem-solving, and the demands of real-world manufacturing. As Founder and President, he continues to guide the company’s direction with a focus on operational excellence, strong customer relationships, and long-term sustainability.
As the company grows, 425 Manufacturing is actively transitioning into its second generation of leadership. Mike works closely with Tyler Thomason, who also grew up in a machine shop and brings the same hands-on mindset to the business. Tyler is increasingly involved in day-to-day operations, manufacturing strategy, and long-term planning. Together, they combine decades of practical experience with forward-thinking leadership to ensure the company continues to evolve while staying true to the values it was built on.
What began as a focused CNC machining operation has grown into a trusted supplier of precision machined parts, assemblies, and aftermarket solutions. Along the way, we have continuously expanded our machining, fabrication, and inspection capabilities to meet the needs of customers operating in challenging environments.
In addition to custom CNC machining, we provide aftermarket solutions for the mining and blast hole drill industry, supporting critical equipment where reliability and speed matter most. Our aftermarket components have shipped to six of the seven continents, helping customers minimize downtime in remote and demanding locations.
Today, 425 Manufacturing employs 20 skilled professionals and offers full employee benefits, including medical, dental, optical, retirement, and additional coverage—because investing in people is essential to long-term success.
We are an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer, holding ourselves to strict quality management standards that ensure consistency, traceability, and continuous improvement across every product we deliver.
Community involvement is a core part of who we are. We actively support local schools and technical programs, host Manufacturing Day tours, organize an annual blood drive, and participate in many local fundraising campaigns throughout the year that support charities, families, and organizations within our community. Giving back isn’t an initiative—it’s part of our culture.
At 425 Manufacturing, we don’t just supply parts — we deliver precision CNC machining and aftermarket solutions that keep production moving and operations on schedule.
What began as a focused CNC machining operation has grown into a trusted supplier of precision machined parts, assemblies, and aftermarket solutions. Along the way, we have continuously expanded our machining, fabrication, and inspection capabilities to meet the needs of customers operating in challenging environments.
In addition to custom CNC machining, we provide aftermarket solutions for the mining and blast hole drill industry, supporting critical equipment where reliability and speed matter most. Our aftermarket components have shipped to six of the seven continents, helping customers minimize downtime in remote and demanding locations.
Today, 425 Manufacturing employs 20 skilled professionals and offers full employee benefits, including medical, dental, optical, retirement, and additional coverage—because investing in people is essential to long-term success.
We are an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer, holding ourselves to strict quality management standards that ensure consistency, traceability, and continuous improvement across every product we deliver.
Community involvement is a core part of who we are. We actively support local schools and technical programs, host Manufacturing Day tours, organize an annual blood drive, and participate in many local fundraising campaigns throughout the year that support charities, families, and organizations within our community. Giving back isn’t an initiative—it’s part of our culture.
At 425 Manufacturing, we don’t just supply parts — we deliver precision CNC machining and aftermarket solutions that keep production moving and operations on schedule.
Built here. Built better.