From a family farm to an internationally recognized company, we’ve stayed true to our values and roots since day one.
In 1981, Tom Spika took over the family ranch outside of Kolin, MT and started a mobile welding business to supplement his income. Tom eventually took a full-time welding job in Lewistown, MT, before starting Montana Aviary Company with his wife Carol in 1999. In 2001, Montana Aviary Company became Spika Welding & Manufacturing when the Spikas had an opportunity to design and manufacture aluminum maintenance stands for military helicopters.
A ton has happened since our founding—more than we can list here. Below are our greatest hits to date.
Tom and Carol Spika start Montana Aviary Company in the tiny brick shop on the ranch. Shortly thereafter, the building caught fire and burnt to the ground. That tragedy required the Spikas to build a new, much larger shop, which ultimately allowed the rest of the story to happen.
Montana Aviary Company became Spika Welding and Manufacturing after winning a contract to make aluminum maintenance stands for the US military.
Spika was awarded a $3.3 million dollar contract by the National Guard, and opened a new state-of-the-art facility in Lewistown, MT. Employees and truck drivers rejoiced as they no longer had to drive down steep, slippery gravel roads in the middle of winter to get to the ranch.
Spika was recognized as Montana Manufacturer of the Year in 2012, and followed up with Montana Exporter of the Year and Montana Family Business of the Year in 2013.
Spika expands its facility to accommodate its growing staff and products.
Spika transitions to the next generation, with daughters Bekhi and Katie taking over from their parents.
Spika was certified to AS9100, an international quality management system.
Spika expands its facility to add a powder coat space for 24/7 painting capacity.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) awards Spika with the Women-Owned Small Business certification.
Spika rebrands the company with a new logo.