Libby’s Original Machine and Fabrication Shop
Since 1990, Montana Machine and Fabrication has set the standard for capability in Northwest Montana. From emergency repairs to large industrial builds, our crew, equipment, and floor space handle the region’s toughest jobs.
“Original. Capable. Still Leading.”
Decades later, we remain Libby’s most complete machine and fabrication operation with big capacity, deep experience, and practical know-how from people who do the work every day. Mines, mills, contractors, and municipalities across Lincoln County, Northwest Montana, and Northern Idaho rely on us to keep their projects moving.
We’ve always been Libby’s most capable shop… but we started with humble beginnings.
The Catalyst
Montana Machine and Fabrication essentially began when W.R. Grace closed its Libby operation in September of 1990, leaving foreman of the milling crew, LeRoy Thom, out of a job. Working with partner at the time, Bob Kraus, and their respective families, the two secured a loan from the Zonolite Employees Credit Union and purchased equipment from their former employer, W.R. Grace.
The First Building
Beginning with a 40’x70’ fabrication shop and 40’x30 storage area in what was formerly the location of “Bill’s Bargains”, LeRoy and Bob created a heavy machine shop that could rival any in the Northwest.
A New Chapter of Growth
Montana Machine and Fabrication was now born and has been running strong ever since, later relocating to a larger facility on HWY 2 and continuing to expand their operations, equipment and capabilities working on a diverse range of projects in Libby and throughout Northwest America. Their combination of high-end equipment and skilled work has led them to become the leaders in large-scale fabrication, machining and industrial repairs in the area.
Montana Machine & Payne Machinery
In 2019, Montana Machine expanded by acquiring Payne Machinery, marking a significant milestone in our growth. This acquisition allowed us to:
- Enhance our service offerings and product inventory
- Strengthen our presence in the hydraulic, fabrication, and machining industries
Following the acquisition, we relocated to our new, larger facility, providing more space and better capabilities to serve our customers.
With a diverse range of work from a spillway crane at Libby Dam to Wild Firefighting Vehicles, we can truly build anything you can imagine!
Check out some examples of our work over the years…
Ready to Build Your Next Project?
From tiny to epic… Montana Machine and Fabrication delivers custom fabrication that meets your requirements and exceeds expectations. Let’s talk about your project today.